Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Conception is the moment when a sperm fertilizes an egg, marking the beginning of pregnancy.
Related terms
Fertilization: This is the process where a sperm cell merges with an egg cell to form a zygote.
Ovulation: This refers to the release of mature eggs from ovaries during a woman's menstrual cycle, making it possible for conception to occur.
Implantation: This term describes when the fertilized egg (zygote) attaches itself to the wall of uterus, which marks another crucial step in pregnancy after conception.