Explain physiology of conception.
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Explain physiology of conception.
Conception is the process where a sperm cell from a male fertilizes an egg cell from a female, resulting in the formation of a zygote. This intricate process involves several key physiological steps:
Ovulation: Approximately midway through the menstrual cycle, an ovary releases a mature egg (ovum) into the fallopian tube, a process known as ovulation.
Sperm Transport: During ejaculation, millions of sperm are deposited in the female reproductive tract. They travel through the cervix and uterus, reaching the fallopian tubes where the egg is located.
Fertilization: The sperm undergo a process called capacitation, which increases their motility and ability to penetrate the egg. When a sperm successfully penetrates the egg's outer layer, the egg undergoes a chemical change to prevent other sperm from entering.
Zygote Formation: The genetic material from the sperm and egg combine to form a single cell called a zygote, containing 46 chromosomes – 23 from each parent.
Cell Division and Implantation: The zygote begins to divide rapidly as it moves down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. It becomes a blastocyst, which then implants into the uterine lining, initiating pregnancy.
These physiological steps ensure that the genetic material from both parents combines correctly, leading to the development of a new individual. Conception is thus a critical beginning to human development, requiring precise coordination of biological processes.