conception

Conception is the process when a sperm cell from a male fertilizes an egg cell from a female, usually within the fallopian tube. During ovulation, an egg is released from the ovary and awaits fertilization. When sperm enters the reproductive tract, it can meet and penetrate the egg, combining genetic material from both. This fertilized egg, called a zygote, then begins dividing and developing as it moves toward the uterus, where it may implant into the lining and establish pregnancy. Conception marks the beginning of potential human development, combining both parents’ genetic information to form a new individual.