To better understand premature labor, it helps to understand the anatomy of the uterus, cervix, and Fallopian tubes.

Anatomy of the female reproductive tract includes:

• The uterus, cervix, and vaginal canal
• The bladder
• The fallopian tubes:
• These paired structures connect each ovary to the uterus
• The ovaries:
• One on each side of the uterus. A normal adult ovary is about the size of an unshelled almond
• Female organs during a pelvic examination

The fetus grows within the amniotic sac within the uterus:

• The fetus within the amniotic sac
• The near term fetus within the uterus
• Ultrasound of fetus and placenta