Answers and Notes for MCQs on Pelvis and Perineum

The reproductive tract has mucous membranes. The epithelium of the female reproductive organ differs according to the function of the specific part. The endometrium consists of simple columnar epithelium—during the secretory phase, the glands are coiled but are long tubules in the proliferative phase. The inner layer of the cervix (endocervix) is lined with simple columnar epithelium. The ectocervix is characterized by nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. Between the ectocervix and endocervix (i.e., the transformation zone where scrapings are obtained for cytological examination in a Papanicolaou test), the epithelium is squamocolumnar. Like the ectocervix, the vagina is lined by characterized nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. The lining of the vulva is formed by stratified squamous epithelium. The external surface of the ovary is lined by simple cuboidal epithelium, and the interior of the fallopian tube has ciliated simple columnar epithelium [ 1 ]. The mucus in the female reproductive tract has properties that include its ability to flow or undergo deformation; this viscoelasticity depends on the part of the reproductive tract and the stage in the menstrual cycle [ 2 ]. Soulsbury and Humphries state that, “viscosity is a fundamental driver in changing spermatozoon structure and, in turn, plays a vital role in shaping the biomechanical movement of the sperm” [ 3 , 4 ]. In the female genital tract, mucus provides lubrication.