Ureters

The ureters are long, narrow tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Each human has two ureters, one connected to each kidney. The ureters are an essential part of the urinary system, responsible for transporting urine from the kidneys, where it is produced, to the bladder, where it is stored until it is expelled from the body.

Structure of the Ureters

The ureters are muscular tubes lined with smooth muscle and are approximately 25-30 cm in length. They are composed of three layers: an outer fibrous layer, a middle muscular layer, and an inner mucous layer. The muscular layer contracts in a rhythmic manner to propel urine through the ureters and into the bladder.

Function of the Ureters

The primary function of the ureters is to transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The smooth muscle in the ureter walls contracts in a wave-like pattern called peristalsis, which helps push the urine down the ureters and into the bladder. This peristaltic movement ensures that urine flows in one direction and prevents it from flowing back up into the kidneys.

Study Guide

1. What are the ureters?
2. Describe the structure of the ureters.
3. What is the function of the ureters?
4. How does peristalsis help in the function of the ureters?
5. Where do the ureters transport urine from and to?

Understanding the structure and function of the ureters is essential for comprehending the urinary system and how the body processes and eliminates waste products. It is also important for understanding conditions and diseases that can affect the ureters, such as kidney stones and ureteral obstructions.