The |cervix| is the neck of the |uterus|, about an inch long, and is a tubelike canal that projects into the |vagina|. The |cervix| is composed of a band of muscle and remains tightly closed to keep the |fetus| inside the |uterus| during |pregnancy|. During |childbirth| the |cervix| plays a crucial role. Before a baby can be delivered, the |cervix| has to be effaced, shortened, and completely dilated (opened up) so that the baby can descend through both the |pelvis| and its muscular floor.
