From the Research
No, the fallopian tube is not connected to the uterus via the round ligament. The fallopian tubes (also called oviducts or uterine tubes) connect directly to the upper corners of the uterus at areas called the cornua. Each fallopian tube opens into the uterine cavity through an opening called the uterotubal junction. The round ligaments are completely separate structures that extend from the sides of the uterus near the fallopian tube attachment, through the inguinal canal, and insert into the labia majora, as described in a study published in 2018 1. The round ligaments function to help keep the uterus in its normal anteverted position within the pelvis. They have no role in connecting the fallopian tubes to the uterus. This anatomical distinction is important for understanding female reproductive physiology, fertility, and various gynecological conditions.
Some studies have investigated the anatomy of the round ligament, including its termination and relationship to the fallopian tube. For example, a study published in 2018 found that the round ligament attaches to the uterine cornu near the origin of the fallopian tube, but does not connect to the fallopian tube itself 1. Another study published in 2023 described a rare case of ectopic pregnancy in the round ligament, highlighting the importance of considering abnormal localization of ectopic pregnancy as a differential diagnosis in women presenting with pelvic pain 2. However, this study does not suggest a connection between the fallopian tube and the round ligament.
In terms of the evidence, the most recent and highest quality study is the one published in 2018 1, which provides a detailed description of the anatomy of the round ligament and its relationship to the fallopian tube. This study suggests that the round ligament is a separate structure from the fallopian tube, and that it plays a distinct role in supporting the uterus. Therefore, based on the strongest and most recent evidence, the fallopian tube is not connected to the uterus via the round ligament.
Key points to consider:
- The fallopian tubes connect directly to the upper corners of the uterus at areas called the cornua.
- The round ligaments are separate structures that extend from the sides of the uterus near the fallopian tube attachment, through the inguinal canal, and insert into the labia majora.
- The round ligaments have no role in connecting the fallopian tubes to the uterus.
- The anatomical distinction between the fallopian tubes and round ligaments is important for understanding female reproductive physiology, fertility, and various gynecological conditions.