Conception: Fertilization, Process & When It Happens

How does conception occur?

• Conception (Fertilization): Joining of sperm and an egg.

• Related to Menstrual Cycle: Sequence of events preparing the body for pregnancy.

  • Females ovulate during their menstrual cycle.
  • Ovulation: Ovary releases an egg guided by fimbriae through fallopian tubes towards the uterus.
  • Sperm produced in testicles, released during ejaculation, aims to fertilize an egg.
  • Fertilization: Only one sperm penetrates the egg; if not fertilized, the egg dissolves.

• Post-Fertilization:

  • Fertilized egg (zygote) divides and moves to the uterus.
  • Blastocyst Formation: About 100 cells, occurs a week after fertilization.
  • Implantation: Blastocyst attaches to the uterine lining (endometrium).
  • If implantation occurs, the embryo develops, and hormones signal pregnancy.

Timeline of Getting Pregnant

• Menstrual Cycle Calculation: From first day of bleeding to next first day.
  • Average cycle: 28 days.
• Pregnancy Process in a 28-day Cycle:
  • Day 1: First day of period.
  • Day 14: Ovulation.
  • Within 24 Hours of Ovulation: Conception occurs.
  • 6 Days After Fertilization: Implantation into uterine lining.
  • Day 21: Pregnancy confirmed if conception and implantation occurred.

Conception and a Positive Pregnancy Test

• Post-Conception: Embryo implants in uterus walls.
• hCG Hormone Production: Starts about 11 days after conception, detectable in blood and later in urine.

Chances of Conceiving

• Conception occurs in only 25% to 30% of cases, decreases after age 35.

Conception with IVF

• Similar fertilization process in vitro (lab setting).
• Embryo is placed in uterus for implantation.

When Does Conception Happen?

• Occurs 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.
• Difficult to pinpoint; using predictor kits or cycle tracking may help.

Timing for Conception

• Optimal Times for Unprotected Sex:
  • Up to five days before ovulation.
  • During ovulation or within 24 hours after.

Location of Conception

• Usually in fallopian tubes; sometimes in the uterus.

Factors Preventing Conception

• Health conditions: anovulation, low sperm count/motility, blockages, aging-related egg/sperm quality issues.

Sensations and Signs of Conception

• Usually no feeling during conception.
• Possible signs: changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, light spotting or dull ache post-implantation.

Initial Pregnancy Symptoms

• Vary by individual; may feel symptoms soon after conception or weeks later.
• Common Symptoms: Missed period, frequent urination, tiredness, nausea, sore breasts, spotting, headaches, mood swings.

Positive Pregnancy Test Timing

• At-Home Test: 11-14 days post-conception.
• Blood Test: Around 10 days post-conception by healthcare provider.

Conclusion

• Conception is a complex process; infertility is common, with resources available for assistance.
• Consult healthcare providers if facing conception challenges.