Which ligament contains the uterine vessels?

• A. Broad ligament
• B. Uterosacral ligament
• C. Round ligament
• D. Lateral cervical (cardinal)

Answer: (D)

The uterine vessels run in the parametrium, contained within the lateral cervical (cardinal) ligament. This fibrous band, also called the transverse cervical ligament, extends from the cervix to the lateral pelvic wall and carries the uterine artery and vein, along with nerves and lymphatics, as they reach the uterus. The broad ligament is a peritoneal fold that drapes the uterus and contains parts of the reproductive tract, but the main uterine vessels are not housed there. The uterosacral ligament provides posterior support and is richer in connective tissue and nerves, while the round ligament guides the uterus during development and contains the artery of the round ligament. Thus, the ligament that contains the uterine vessels is the lateral cervical (cardinal) ligament.