Requirements For Conception to Occur
In
both sexes -
- A
normal functioning reproductive system
- An
adequate sex drive, and full sexual intercourse
In
Women
- A
regular ovulatory cycle.
- Fully
functioning fallopian tubes.
- The
production of watery mucus by the cervix around the time of ovulation,
this permits the ejaculated sperm to pass into the uterus from the
vagina.
- A
uterus which permits implantation of the embryo.
In
Men
- Producing
semen which contains sufficient numbers of healthy motile sperm.
- The
ability to achieve erection and ejaculate semen into the vagina.
Normal
Cycle
At
the beginning of the menstrual cycle, the pituitary gland in your brain
releases follicle - stimulating hormone (FSH) which stimulates the ovary
to produce follicles. One of these follicles grows faster to become
the " dominant follicle". It is from this follicle that the
egg will be released.
The
ovaries also produce many hormones, the most important ones are oestrogen
and progesterone. Oestrogen promotes growth of the follicles and development
of the endometrium, while progesterone, which is released after ovulation,
is important in preparing the endometrium for pregnancy.
When
the egg is released, it is swept into the fallopian tube, then begins
to move slowly down the tube to be fertilised in the outer third of
the fallopian tube, and then continues to the uterus to implant in the
lining ( endometruim ) resulting in a pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilised,
the endometium is shed as a menstrual period approximately 14 days after
ovulation.
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