egg (ova)

An egg, also called an ovum, is a female reproductive cell essential for reproduction. It is produced in the ovaries and contains half of the genetic material necessary to create a new organism. During each menstrual cycle, an ovum is released and travels into the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. If fertilization occurs, the egg begins to develop into an embryo. If not, the egg is shed during menstruation. Eggs are much larger than sperm cells and are vital for natural conception.