The corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone and estrogen. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum degenerates to a form called the corpus albicans, and estrogen and progesterone levels drop. Finally, the endometrial lining sloughs off and is shed during menstruation Fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube. After ejaculation, once the sperm enters the fallopian tube, it can survive for up to three days and fertilize the egg at any point during that time. The egg, unless fertilized, only survives 12 to 24 hours.
Studies indicate that conception is most likely when intercourse occurs around the day of ovulation.
Two to four days later the fertilized egg moves from the fallopian tube into the uterus where it is implanted in the uterine lining and begins its nine-month incubation. Copyright Ellora Microsystems 1999, Contact Us All Standard Disclaimers Apply. Designed and Maintained by Ellora Microsystems, Mumbai.