Some couples are able to get pregnant effortlessly, while others experience varying degrees of difficulty. Many couples who are trying to conceive are anxious to do so. Although having intercourse within the “fertile window” is one of the best known ways to increase the probability of fertilization, there are several other ways that couples can…
Tag: Zygote
Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is the production and development of sperm. This process begins at puberty and continues for the remainder of a male’s life. The sperm and the egg, which are the male and female gametes, meet during fertilization. Both gametes are haploid cells; these cells contain 23 unpaired chromosomes, which is half of the human genetic…
The Ovaries and the Ovum
The ovaries are the female gonads, or sex glands. These glands carry out two important functions: ovulation, and the production and secretion of sex hormones. Ovulation is the process of releasing an ovum, or egg, to prepare a female for possible implantation and consequent impregnation. Sex hormones regulate the process which dictates ovulation, known as…
Miscarriage
Disclaimer: Throughout this article we will be using the term “expectant mother” to refer to a pregnant female, although we acknowledge that not all pregnant females will become mothers. Some may choose to serve as surrogates, or to give their babies up for adoption by couples who wish to become parents. Further, we will be…
Biological Steps to Becoming Pregnant
There are many steps that must occur for a female to become pregnant. Understanding the process of how pregnancy occurs can be beneficial both for those who are trying to become pregnant, and those who wish to avoid pregnancy. For those that wish to avoid pregnancy, we highly recommend using both a barrier method of…
Effects of Drugs Taken During Pregnancy
Disclaimer: We acknowledge that not all pregnant females will remain the mother of the child and that not all mothers may have biologically given birth to their child. In this article, we use the term “mother” for the sake of simplicity and consistency. Expecting mothers and fathers often feel worried about whether or not their child will be healthy. Some of the major factors currently posing…