Conception

Conception is a term with multiple related meanings. In biology, it denotes the moment a sperm fertilizes an egg, producing a zygote and initiating embryonic development. In everyday speech, conception is often used to refer to the start of pregnancy, although obstetric dating usually counts gestation from the last menstrual period. In philosophy and cognitive science, conception also means the formation of a concept or idea.

Biologically, fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tube after ovulation. A sperm penetrates the oocyte and merges genetic material, forming a zygote. The zygote begins cell division and travels toward the uterus, becoming a morula and then a blastocyst. Implantation into the uterine lining generally occurs about 6 to 10 days after fertilization. Conception thus marks the initial stage of pregnancy for many purposes, but actual gestational age is anchored to the last menstrual period (LMP) in clinical practice. Fertility is influenced by age, health, hormones, and timing within the fertile window, which spans roughly five days before to one day after ovulation.

In non-biological uses, conception describes the act or process of conceiving an idea. It encompasses the formation, development, and understanding of concepts in fields such as philosophy, science, art, and design. Conceptions are shaped by language, culture, education, and experience, and they can evolve over time through reflection and discourse.

Reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and embryo cryopreservation have expanded the range of ways conception can occur. These methods raise ethical, legal, and social questions about selection, parenthood, and access. Conversely, contraception and family planning aim to regulate or prevent conception. Etymologically, conception derives from Latin concipere, meaning to take or seize, or to conceive.