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What is the Endometrial Cavity?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Medical professionals refer to the space surrounded by a layer of mucus membranes that lines the uterus as the endometrial cavity. The cells that make up this layer are called endometrial cells. In humans, the cells of the cavity renew themselves monthly, as part of the reproductive cycle of healthy women. The body builds up a dense layer of tissue which could support a fetus, and if a woman is not impregnated, it is shed in the form of a menstrual period. An assortment of health problems are associated with this cavity, which is one of the reasons why it is important for women to get frequent medical check-ups.

One of the most common issues involving endometrial cells is endometriosis, which is caused by the growth of these cells outside of the uterus. Most commonly, these clusters of cells grow in the abdomen, but they can appear in other parts of the body. Just like the cells in the uterus, they respond to the hormone cycles of the body by shedding and attempting to detach, but since they lack an escape route, the cells cause internal bleeding, scarring, and sometimes intense pain. The condition can be difficult to diagnose, and generally appears in women between 25 and 35 years of age, although it has been recorded in girls as young as 11.

The endometrial cavity, or endometrium, is the space in the uterus that is lined by a layer of mucus membranes, which renew themselves monthly as part of a healthy female reproductive cycle.
The endometrial cavity, or endometrium, is the space in the uterus that is lined by a layer of mucus membranes, which renew themselves monthly as part of a healthy female reproductive cycle.

Cancers of the endometrial cavity are also common among women. This type of cancer most commonly occurs in women who are past reproductive age, and because it is slow growing, it can often be quickly arrested and stopped if a woman and her healthcare provider are alert. Endometrial cancer causes abnormal vaginal bleeding, so women should keep track of their menstrual cycles and report irregularities to a medical professional. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to obtain tissue samples to test. Women should be aware that a PAP smear does not always reveal endometrial or uterine cancers, as it is taken from the area of the cervix.

PAP smears do not always reveal uterine or endometrial cancers.
PAP smears do not always reveal uterine or endometrial cancers.

Fluid can also build up in the endometrial cavity. Among women of reproductive age, this is usually associated with pregnancy, but in older women, it may be a sign of a problem. If an ultrasound reveals a buildup of fluid, a sample will be taken to determine whether or not the cause is benign. Fluid is not always a cause for alarm. Women should rely on the judgment of a healthcare professional to determine whether or not the fluid should be further investigated or not.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon338900

@anon129624: Did you ever find out what the fluid was and what were your symptoms?

anon129624

I'm 35. About two years ago, I got pregnant, but the doc saw fluid in my uterus. What could it be? please help. --nicole

anon46020

I have very irregular periods. I get really bad sharp pains. I have not been able to get pregnant, although i already have a child. Now there is a trace of fluid in the endometrial cavity. can someone please help me understand?

anon37259

I've just had a scan that has shown fluid in my uterus - for the last two months I have not had a proper period. My cervix seems to be lying sideways and I think the exit for the blood to pass through is tight against my vaginal wall - thus the fluid is now backing up into the uterus. It's very painful and I am awaiting a colposcopy, hopefully the doctor will be able to realign my cervix and the fluid will come out.

anon33991

This says that fluid in the endometrial cavity is not always cause for alarm. I am 31 years old - not pregnant - and my doctor found fluid in my uterus. I have had 3 biopsies come back negative. What could account for this fluid?

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    • The endometrial cavity, or endometrium, is the space in the uterus that is lined by a layer of mucus membranes, which renew themselves monthly as part of a healthy female reproductive cycle.
      By: snapgalleria
      The endometrial cavity, or endometrium, is the space in the uterus that is lined by a layer of mucus membranes, which renew themselves monthly as part of a healthy female reproductive cycle.
    • PAP smears do not always reveal uterine or endometrial cancers.
      By: Zsolnai Gergely
      PAP smears do not always reveal uterine or endometrial cancers.
    • Classic symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic and lower back pain.
      By: ryanking999
      Classic symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic and lower back pain.
    • One of the most common issues involving endometrial cells is endometriosis.
      By: joshya
      One of the most common issues involving endometrial cells is endometriosis.
    • Cancers of the endometrial cavity are common among women.
      By: Marin Conic
      Cancers of the endometrial cavity are common among women.