The uterine artery is a branch of the anterior division of the internal iliac artery that provides blood supply to the uterus among other reproductive organs in the female.

The uterine artery passes inferiorly along the lateral wall of the lesser pelvis, then it goes within the broad ligament of the uterus and within the cardinal ligament to reach the cervix uteri. Then the uterine artery travels through the parametrium to the fundus of the uterus.

The uterine artery gives off several branches, such as the:

Vaginal branch - arises from the uterine artery at the cervix uteri and descends along the lateral wall of the vagina;
Ovarian branch - arises at the level of the cornu of the uterus, passes along the ovarian ligament and reaches the ovary on each side to supply it;
Tubal branch - travels within the mesosalpinx to the Fallopian (uterine) tube and supplies it;
Uretral branches - supply the lower third of the ureter;
Other branches including arcuate, radial, spiral and basal branches.

To sum up, the uterine artery supplies the cervix and uterus, vagina, ovaries, uterine tube and the lower portion of the ureter.

Unlock with Premium

Uterine artery