TTC & cycle language · In plain English

Fertilisation

The joining of an egg and a sperm. In unassisted conception this usually happens in a fallopian tube; in IVF it happens in a laboratory.

Also searched as: fertilization, conception

Why you might see this term

Fertilisation is one step in the pathway. The resulting embryo must continue developing and implant for a pregnancy to become established.

What to keep in mind

Fertilisation is not the same as implantation, and a positive ovulation test does not show that either has happened.

Sources & further reading

Prepared by ProFertility · Updated 23 October 2026.

Educational information based on the linked sources. This explanation is not an individual diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. A term appearing here does not mean the test is necessary or included in a particular kit.

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