Inclusive Anatomy
Structure:
The recto-uterine pouch is the deepest space of the abdominal (peritoneal) cavity, which is found within the pelvis of phenotypically assigned females at birth. The space is found between the posterior wall of the uterus and the anterior wall of the rectum.[1,2] The pouch's lower base is about 5 to 7.5 cm from the anal verge. The pouch forms a concavity from the draping of the peritoneum between the rectum and uterus, with size and depth variations influenced by factors such as age, reproductive history, and underlying medical conditions.[1,3]
Function:
The recto-uterine pouch is a crucial reference point in gynecology for surgical procedures, and it serves as a potential space within the pelvis. Understanding its anatomy and location is pivotal for healthcare professionals dealing with female reproductive system conditions and pelvic health. It can also change in size to accommodate various pelvic structures, such as the uterus, during different phases of life, including pregnancy.[2] It is the deepest space of the abdominal cavity where fluid may be found if free fluid is in the abdomen. The rectouterine pouch can be associated with gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and pelvic inflammatory disease, often leading to pelvic pain and discomfort.[2,3]
References:
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Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AMR. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 6. ed., internat. ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2010.
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Briceag I, Costache A, Purcarea VL, et al. Fallopian tubes--literature review of anatomy and etiology in female infertility. J Med Life. 2015;8(2):129-131. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4392087/
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Standring S, ed. Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Forty-first edition. Elsevier Limited; 2016.
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