What You Need To Know About™ Cervical Cancer - National Cancer Institute

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What You Need To Know About™ Cervical Cancer - National Cancer Institute

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What You Need To Know About Cervical Cancer: The Cervix

06/05/2013 02:04 PM EDT

Source: National Cancer Institute -
Related MedlinePlus Page: Cervical Cancer

The Cervix

The cervix is part of a woman's reproductive system. It's in the pelvis. The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb).
The cervix is a passageway:

• The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina. During a menstrual period, blood flows from the uterus through the cervix into the vagina. The vagina leads to the outside of the body.
• The cervix makes mucus. During sex, mucus helps sperm move from the vagina through the cervix into the uterus.
• During pregnancy, the cervix is tightly closed to help keep the baby inside the uterus. During childbirth, the cervix opens to allow the baby to pass through the vagina.

©2009 Terese Winslow
U.S. Government has certain rights This picture shows the cervix and nearby organs.

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