A pregnancy starts when a woman's egg joins with a man's sperm, a process called fertilization.
Understanding Fertilization
Fertilization is the crucial initial event in human reproduction. It involves the fusion of a female gamete (egg or ovum) and a male gamete (sperm). This union creates a single cell known as a zygote, which contains the genetic material necessary to develop into a new organism. The exact location where this takes place is usually within the female's reproductive system.
The Process
- The sperm travels from the vagina, through the cervix, into the uterus and eventually reaches the fallopian tubes.
- The egg is released from the ovary during ovulation and also travels into the fallopian tube.
- If sperm are present in the fallopian tube when the egg is, fertilization can occur.
- The fertilized egg then moves down the fallopian tube towards the uterus.
Where it Happens
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Fallopian Tube | The most common site for fertilization. It provides the ideal environment for the sperm and egg to meet. |
What happens next?
According to the reference, if fertilization is successful, the fertilized egg, now an embryo, will continue traveling through the fallopian tube. If it successfully implants in the uterus, it will start to grow and develop.
