In this Study Session, you have learned that:

• Fertilisation is the union of spermatozoa and an egg.
• Fertilisation takes place in the fallopian tube (ampulla).
• Pregnancy is a maternal condition of having a developing fetus in her uterus.
• Implantation is the embedding of the blastocyst in the uterus (decidua).
• The blastocyst develops into the trophoblast which develops later to the placenta and chorion (the outer portion of the membrane or sack) whereas the internal portion produces the fetus and amniotic fluid and the cord.
• The placenta functions as an organ system providing the fetus with a:
  • Respiratory organ.
  • Nutrition system.
  • Storage, excretion and protection mechanism.