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cervix

(sĕr′viks )

(sĕr′vĭ-sēz″)
(sĕr″vī′sēz″)
pl. cervices pl. cervixes [L. cervix, stem cervic-, nape, neck]
The neck or a part of an organ resembling a neck.

A uterine cervix that is less than 25 mm (1 in) long when measured by vaginal ultrasonography. It increases the risk of preterm delivery.

A cervix that is not adequately prepared for a vaginal delivery of a newborn child (one with a Bishop score of less than or 6). A favorable cervix is one with a Bishop's score more than 6.

The lower part of the uterus from the internal os outward to the external os. It is rounded and conical, and a portion protrudes into the vagina. It is about 1 in (2.5 cm) long and is penetrated by the cervical canal, through which the fetus and menstrual flow escape. It may be torn in childbirth, esp. in a primigravida.
Deeper tears may occur in manual dilatation and use of forceps; breech presentation also may be a cause. Laceration may be single, bilateral, stellate, or incomplete. Tears are repaired by suturing to prevent hemorrhage and later complications.

SYN: SEE: cervical canal; SEE: neck of the uterus.

The neck of the urinary bladder.