What is the thick-walled, muscular organ that receives, retains, and nourishes a fertilized egg throughout pregnancy? A. Cervix B. Vagina C. Uterus D. Ovary

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the specific function of each anatomical structure listed in the options.
2. Determine which organ is primarily responsible for receiving, retaining, and nourishing a fertilized egg during pregnancy.

Relevant Concepts

• Cervix: The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, playing a role during childbirth but not primarily involved in pregnancy maintenance.
• Vagina: A muscular tube that leads from external genitals to the uterus, involved in copulation and childbirth but does not nourish a fertilized egg.
• Uterus: A thick-walled, muscular organ designed specifically to support a fertilized egg, allowing for implantation and development during pregnancy.
• Ovary: The organ that produces eggs and hormones but does not house the fertilized egg during pregnancy.

Analysis and Detail

• The question asks for an organ that plays a crucial role during pregnancy; hence, the uterine function is the most pertinent here.
• The uterus provides a suitable environment for implantation and growth, serving as the site where the embryo develops into a fetus.

Verify and Summarize

• Evaluating the roles of each organ shows clearly that the uterus is unique in its function of retaining and nourishing the developing embryo.

Final Answer

C. Uterus