The endocervical canal, composed of mucosal folds or plicae, extends from the internal to the external os, measuring about 8 mm at its widest point in women of childbearing age.
Each moult is preceded by a period of immobility during which the cuticle is separated from the epidermis and the new cuticle is formed over plicae in the epidermis.
The plicae are somewhat acuminately produced upon the upper carina, which, when viewed from above, presents a prettily festooned appearance.
Structurally, the mucosa is covered in wrinkles or folds called plicae circulares, which are considered permanent features in the wall of the organ.
The plicae more or less project at the suture and on the edge of the basal whorl, producing an undulating or crenulated effect.
The intestinal villi should not be confused with the larger folds of mucous membrane in the bowel known as the plicae circulares.
On the other hand, plicae remain folded regardless of distension as is evident within the plicae of the small intestine walls.
The body whorl is shouldered at the suture, and may be ornamented with folds or plicae.
