uterine vein

The uterine vein is a blood vessel that drains deoxygenated blood from the uterus and carries it to the internal iliac vein, which then returns it to the systemic circulation.

The uterine vein drains into the internal iliac vein. It is classified as a tributary of the internal iliac vein, meaning it feeds blood directly into that larger pelvic vessel.

There are typically two uterine veins, one on each side of the uterus. They run alongside the uterine arteries within the broad ligament and form a plexus around the cervix and lower uterine segment.

During pregnancy the uterine veins enlarge significantly to accommodate the greatly increased blood flow to the uterus. This engorgement is important for fetal nutrition but also increases the risk of hemorrhage during obstetric procedures or delivery.

The uterine vein runs alongside the uterine artery, forming a vascular pedicle within the broad ligament. The artery supplies oxygenated blood to the uterus while the vein returns deoxygenated blood, and the two vessels are tightly associated anatomically, which is relevant during hysterectomy and other pelvic surgeries.