Once a human egg leaves an ovary, it travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus (womb).
Here's a more detailed explanation of the journey:
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Ovulation: The process begins with ovulation, the release of a mature egg cell from one of the ovaries. This typically occurs about once a month in women after they've had their first menstrual period.
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Entry into the Fallopian Tube: After being released, the egg enters the fallopian tube. The fimbriae, finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tube, help guide the egg into the tube.
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Travel Down the Fallopian Tube: The egg then begins its journey down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This journey is aided by cilia (tiny hair-like structures) lining the fallopian tube and peristaltic contractions (muscle contractions).
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Fertilization Opportunity: The egg remains viable for fertilization for about 12-24 hours. If sperm are present in the fallopian tube during this time, fertilization can occur. If fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote continues its journey to the uterus.
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Arrival in the Uterus (with or without fertilization):
- If fertilized: The fertilized egg (zygote) implants in the uterine lining, marking the beginning of pregnancy.
- If not fertilized: The unfertilized egg continues to the uterus. If implantation does not happen, the egg and the uterine lining will be shed during menstruation.
In summary, after leaving the ovary, the human egg enters the fallopian tube, travels towards the uterus, and either gets fertilized (leading to implantation) or is shed during menstruation.
