Which term describes the fertilization event leading to pregnancy?

• A. Ovulation
• B. Gestation
• C. Conception
• D. Parturition

Answer: (C)

Conception is the fertilization event that begins pregnancy. It happens when a sperm penetrates an egg, forming a zygote that will start dividing and, typically, implant in the uterine lining to establish pregnancy. Ovulation is simply the release of the egg from the ovary, a prerequisite for conception but not the fertilization itself. Gestation refers to the entire period of pregnancy from conception (depending on definition) to birth, while parturition is the act of giving birth.