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Uterus

foto van een meisje

The uterus is a small organ in your abdominal cavity. It is the size of your fist and is shaped like a pear. The base of the uterus, also called the cervix, is located deep inside the vagina.

What does the uterus do?

A fertilised egg can grow into a baby in the uterus, and is usually delivered through the vagina 9 months later. If the egg hasn’t been fertilised, you have a period. Then blood from your uterus is discharged through your vagina. As long as no egg is fertilised, this is repeated once a month. Read more about your fertility cycle.

Diagram of the female reproductive organs showing the uterus, mucous membranes, fallopian tubes, the cervix, overies, the vagina and labia

Feel it yourself

The cervix is at the base of the uterus. You can feel it yourself.

  • Go deep inside your vagina with your finger.
  • The cervix is at the top of your vaginal canal.
  • It will usually feel quite firm and not particularly sensitive, except when you’re ovulating.
  • A man may be able to feel the cervix during penetrative sex. As long as this doesn’t hurt either of you, it’s not a problem. If it does hurt, you could try another position.