SUPERFECUNDATION Meaning and
Definition
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Superfecundation is a term used in biology and reproductive science to describe the occurrence of multiple fertilizations in a female during a single reproductive cycle or pregnancy. It specifically refers to a phenomenon wherein a woman produces multiple eggs that are fertilized by separate sperm from separate acts of sexual intercourse or insemination, resulting in the conception of fraternal twins or multiples with different biological fathers.
This rare occurrence can happen when a woman ovulates multiple times in a short period, allowing for fertilization of eggs by different sperm from different sexual partners. The fertilized eggs then develop simultaneously, leading to the birth of multiple offspring with distinct genetic characteristics and genetic fathers.
Superfecundation is more commonly observed in animals, particularly in species with multiple mating partners. In humans, it is considered extremely rare, yet there have been documented cases. The phenomenon of superfecundation can have significant implications, not only in terms of genetic diversity within a family but also in determining legal and social responsibilities when different fathers are involved.
In conclusion, superfecundation refers to the fertilization of multiple eggs by different sperm from separate acts of sexual intercourse or insemination. It leads to the birth of fraternal twins or multiples with different biological fathers and is an intriguing biological phenomenon with relatively limited occurrences in humans.
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The impregnation of two or more ova, liberated at the same ovulation, by successive acts of coitus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SUPERFECUNDATION
- auperfecundation
- zuperfecundation
- xuperfecundation
- duperfecundation
- euperfecundation
- wuperfecundation
- syperfecundation
- shperfecundation
- sjperfecundation
- siperfecundation
- s8perfecundation
- s7perfecundation
- suoerfecundation
- sulerfecundation
- su-erfecundation
- su0erfecundation
- supwrfecundation
- supsrfecundation
- supdrfecundation
Etymology of SUPERFECUNDATION
The word superfecundation is derived from the Latin roots super meaning above or beyond, and fecundare meaning to make fruitful or to fertilize. So, superfecundation literally translates to beyond fertilization or above normal fecundity.
Similar spelling words for SUPERFECUNDATION
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