A–Z Glossary

Myometrium

The myometrium is the muscular layer of the uterus that contracts during pregnancy and labor.

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Common questions about contractions

Common questions about contractions

What are contractions? A contraction is a coordinated tightening and subsequent relaxation of the uterine myometrium, the muscular layer of the uterus. During labor, these waves help soften and thin the cervix, a process called effacement, and gradually open it, known as dilation. They also help the presenting part of the baby descend through the […]