Changing appearance of the normal uterus during the menstrual cycle: MR studies

Abstract

The authors obtained sagittal magnetic resonance (MR) images twice a week from six healthy women during one full menstrual cycle to establish the changes depicted in the uterine layers. Parallel endocrine and ultrasound studies were used to establish the day of ovulation precisely. Consistent changes in the thickness and intensity of the endometrium and myometrium wer noted in all subjects during the menstrual cycle. Both myometrial thickness and endometrial area increased linearly during the follicular (preovulatory) phase of the cycle; the rate of increase dropped significantly during the luteal phase. Two myometrial layers were observed; the best contrast between the layers was demonstrated during the first half of the cycle.