Ovulation to implantation
The very beginnings of pregnancy. Ovulation, fertilization, implantation and beyond.
Fertilization
Fertilization occurs when the sperm penetrates the egg and creates the first cell that can then become a new life. Although it seems a simple process, many factors must be timed correctly for this amazing event to happen!
Implantation
The fertilized egg has divided and become a blastocyst, and has traveled from the fallopian tube to the uterus. Once in the uterus the blastocyst will burrow into the lining of the uterus in order to receive receive oxygen and nutrients from the mother, this process is called implantation.
After implantation
Once implanted, the blastocyst will begin receiving nourishment directly from cells in the lining of the uterus and it will divide into 2 parts. The inner part, now called the embryo, will become your baby. The outer part will become the placenta, which will nourish and provide oxygen to your baby, as well as remove waste from the bloodstream. Once implanted the part that will become the placenta begins to produce hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin).
