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Related Concept Videos

Fertilization01:38

Fertilization

During fertilization, an egg and sperm cell fuse to create a new diploid structure. In humans, the process occurs once the egg has been released from the ovary, and travels into the fallopian tubes. The process requires several key steps: 1) sperm present in the genital tract must locate the egg; 2) once there, sperm need to release enzymes to help them burrow through the protective zona pellucida of the egg; and 3) the membranes of a single sperm cell and egg must fuse, with the sperm...
Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
Birth Control Methods01:22

Birth Control Methods

Vasectomy is a surgical form of male sterilization that involves severing and sealing the vasa deferentia, preventing sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation. Because a vasectomy does not impact the testes' ability to produce testosterone, hormone levels, libido, and sexual function generally remain unchanged. While vasectomy is highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with a success rate near 99.85%, rare cases of recanalization (spontaneous reconnection) can occur. Although vasectomy...
In Vitro Fertilization01:24

In Vitro Fertilization

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproductive technology where an egg is fertilized with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment before transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus. This process is designed to help individuals and couples experiencing difficulties conceiving.
The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, during which reproductive endocrinologists prescribe hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single...
Secretory Phase01:19

Secretory Phase

The secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, spanning from day 14 to 28 in a typical 28-day cycle, is a period of significant physiological changes in the female reproductive system. This phase commences immediately after ovulation and is characterized by the preparation of the endometrium for potential embryo implantation.
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
Infertility in Females01:28

Infertility in Females

Female infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse and affects about 10–15% of couples worldwide. The primary cause of female infertility is ovulatory disorders, which hinder the release of eggs. These disorders can be classified as hypothalamic amenorrhea, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure, and hyperprolactinemic anovulation disorders.
Endometriosis, a condition characterized by abnormal growth of endometrial...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Methods for Studying Uterine Contributions to Pregnancy Establishment in an Ovariectomized Mouse Model
06:49

Methods for Studying Uterine Contributions to Pregnancy Establishment in an Ovariectomized Mouse Model

Published on: April 7, 2023

Periconception window: advising the pregnancy-planning couple.

Germaine M B Louis1, Maureen A Cooney, Courtney D Lynch

  • 1Epidemiology Branch, Division of Epidemiology, Statistics & Prevention Research, National Institute of Child Health & Human Development, Rockville, Maryland 20852, USA. louisg@mail.nih.gov

Fertility and Sterility
|March 20, 2008
PubMed
Summary

The periconceptional window is a critical time for conception, influencing development. More research is needed on safe behaviors for couples planning pregnancy, including male factors.

More Related Videos

Human Egg Maturity Assessment and Its Clinical Application
08:51

Human Egg Maturity Assessment and Its Clinical Application

Published on: August 19, 2019

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Methods for Studying Uterine Contributions to Pregnancy Establishment in an Ovariectomized Mouse Model
06:49

Methods for Studying Uterine Contributions to Pregnancy Establishment in an Ovariectomized Mouse Model

Published on: April 7, 2023

Human Egg Maturity Assessment and Its Clinical Application
08:51

Human Egg Maturity Assessment and Its Clinical Application

Published on: August 19, 2019

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The periconceptional period is a critical window for fetal development.
  • Couple-based reproductive health is essential for successful conception.
  • Understanding fertile windows improves pregnancy planning.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significance of the periconceptional window as a critical exposure period.
  • To review existing data on healthy periconceptional behaviors.
  • To identify knowledge gaps in periconceptional health research.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of empirical data.
  • Analysis of scientific publications on periconceptional health.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on reproductive behaviors.

Main Results:

  • Many women adopt healthier lifestyles before conception.
  • There is limited empirical data on safe environmental exposures and behaviors.
  • The impact of male partners' behaviors on fertility is understudied.

Conclusions:

  • The periconceptional period significantly impacts offspring development.
  • Couples need better guidance on timing intercourse for conception.
  • Further research is crucial to establish safe periconceptional practices for both partners.