Formation and Retention of the Spermatozoan Reservoir in the Cervix of the Ruminant

Abstract

IN ruminants, the cervix has an important role as a reservoir from which migration of spermatozoa to the uterus arid Fallopian tubes continues for a prolonged period after mating^1,2. To ensure that an adequate population of gametes is established in the cervix, it is necessary that spermatozoa should enter freely. Some restriction must, however, be imposed on free progression within the cervix to prevent too rapid migration of spermatozoa into either the uterus or the vagina and premature dispersion and loss of the population. Observations on the distribution of spermatozoa in the cervices of cattle and goats and on the orientation of spermatozoa in the cervical mucus of either species indicate that both requirements are met through the peculiar physical arid rheological properties of cervical mucus.