The Normal Pelvic Ligaments

Not routinely seen in the absence of fluid in the pelvis.

• Broad Ligaments
• Double fold of peritoneum that arises from the mullerian ducts.
• Loosely holds the uterus, fallopian tubes and round ligament in their normal positions, suspending them from the lateral pelvic walls

• Round Ligaments of the Uterus
• Narrow flat bands.
• 10-12cm long.
• Lie between the layers of the broad ligament and are antero-inferior to the fallopian tubes.
• Provide some support by attaching the uterus to the anterior peritoneal wall, and traveling through the inguinal canal to the labia majora.

• Ovarian Ligament
• Rounded cord.
• Extends from the superior angle of the uterus to the ovarian hilus.
• Seldom seen during routine scanning.

• Transverse Cervical Ligament (Mackenrodt or cardinal ligament).
• Extends laterally from the side of the cervix to the lateral fornices of the vagina.
• Together with the uterosacral ligaments, it helps stabilize the uterus from below.
• Seen occasionally as a hypoechoic band that appears to drape over the cervix.