The** uterosacral ligaments (or rectouterine ligaments ) are major ligaments of uterus that extend posterior-ward from the cervix to attach onto the (anterior aspect of the ) sacrum. **

Structure

Microanatomy/histology

The** uterosacral ligaments consist of fibrous connective tissue, and smooth muscle tissue. **

Relations

The uterosacral ligaments pass inferior to the peritoneum. They** embrace the rectouterine pouch, and rectum. **** The pelvic splanchnic nerves run on top of the **ligament.

Function

The** uterosacral ligaments pull the cervix posterior-ward, counteracting the anterior-ward pull exerted by the round ligament of uterus upon the fundus of the uterus, thus maintaining anteversion of the body of the uterus. **

Clinical significance

The** uterosacral ligaments may be palpated during a rectal examination, but not during pelvic examination. **