Changes in endometrial wave‐like movements in accordance with the phases of menstrual cycle

Abstract

Endometrial wave-like movements change with the passage of menstrual cycle. They appear to play an important role in the transport of sperm and cervical mucus and the excretion of menstrual flow.

Adenomyosis and infertility

“…During the follicular and periovulatory phases, contraction waves have a cervico-fundal orientation and their amplitude and frequency increase significantly towards the time of ovulation. These waves seem implicated in many aspects of physiological reproductive processes, from endometrial differentiation (Bulletti and De Ziegler, 2006) and menstruation (Oki et al, 2002) to sperm transport (Ijland et al, 1997) and implantation (Turnbull et al, 1995).…”

A narrative review of medical, chiropractic, and alternative health practices in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea

“…5,6 Asynchronous reversal of this movement results in retrograde menstruation. The menstrual cycle has increased predictability as events typically occur within 24-35 days.…”

Altered uterine contractility in women with chronic endometritis

“…From a physiologic and clinical point of view, it has been speculated that anterograde EW are finalized to empty the uterine cavity during the menstrual and early proliferative phases. Retrograde EW may be associated with the active transport of sperm from the vagina to the fallopian tubes whereas the quiescent status in the luteal phase may facilitate the process of embryo implantation (6)(7)(8)(9).…”

“…In particular, anterograde EW predominate in the early follicular phase and are characterized by high amplitude and frequency. During the periovulatory phase, EW are mainly retrograde; during the secretory phase EW activity is nearly absent (6). From a physiologic and clinical point of view, it has been speculated that anterograde EW are finalized to empty the uterine cavity during the menstrual and early proliferative phases.…”