General Anatomy · Reproductive System · Medium

Endometrium

Meaning: The inner lining of the womb that thickens each menstrual cycle and is shed during a period.

In practice: Postmenopausal bleeding should prompt an ultrasound to measure the thickness of the endometrium.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related general anatomy words.

Which word means: The upper region of the stomach immediately surrounding the opening where the oesophagus enters.

Which word means: A membrane-bound organelle containing enzymes that break down waste material and worn-out cell parts.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.