Which ligament is a continuation of the broad ligament, extends across the pelvic floor and attaches at the isthmus portion of the uterus, firmly supporting the cervix?

Which ligament is a continuation of the broad ligament, extends across the pelvic floor and attaches at the isthmus portion of the uterus, firmly supporting the cervix?

• A. Cardinal
• B. Broad
• C. Uterosacral
• D. Suspensory

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how the uterus is anchored to the pelvic walls to provide support for the cervix. The ligament in question is the cardinal ligament, also known as the transverse cervical ligament. It runs from the cervix laterally to the pelvic sidewall and is considered the inferior extension of the broad ligament. This structure contains the uterine vessels and forms a strong anchor that helps hold the cervix in place, attaching near the isthmus of the uterus and across the pelvic floor. That lateral support is what makes it the primary stabilizer of the cervix. The other ligaments have different routes and roles: uterosacral ligaments run from the cervix backward to the sacrum and support the uterus from the posterior aspect; the suspensory ligament of the ovary stretches to the lateral pelvic wall carrying the ovarian vessels; and the broad ligament is a peritoneal fold that drapes over the uterus and adnexa rather than providing main cervical support.

The key idea is how the uterus is anchored to the pelvic walls to provide support for the cervix. The ligament in question is the cardinal ligament, also known as the transverse cervical ligament. It runs from the cervix laterally to the pelvic sidewall and is considered the inferior extension of the broad ligament. This structure contains the uterine vessels and forms a strong anchor that helps hold the cervix in place, attaching near the isthmus of the uterus and across the pelvic floor. That lateral support is what makes it the primary stabilizer of the cervix.

The other ligaments have different routes and roles: uterosacral ligaments run from the cervix backward to the sacrum and support the uterus from the posterior aspect; the suspensory ligament of the ovary stretches to the lateral pelvic wall carrying the ovarian vessels; and the broad ligament is a peritoneal fold that drapes over the uterus and adnexa rather than providing main cervical support.