Which three layers comprise the uterus?

The uterus is composed of three distinct layers: the myometrium, endometrium, and perimetrium. The myometrium is the thick, muscular middle layer that is responsible for the contractions during labor and menstruation. The endometrium is the innermost layer, which thickens during the menstrual cycle in preparation for potential implantation of a fertilized egg; its shedding during menstruation is a key part of the reproductive process. The perimetrium is the outermost layer that serves as a protective covering for the uterus.

The other options do not accurately represent the composition of the uterus. They include structures that are not layers of the uterine wall, such as the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, or the fallopian tubes, which are part of the reproductive system but do not constitute layers of the uterus itself. Understanding the three layers is crucial for comprehending uterine function, menstrual cycles, and the processes of conception and pregnancy.