Which statement best describes conception timing in relation to ovulation?

• A. Conception occurs exactly at ovulation.
• B. Conception typically occurs around ovulation.
• C. Conception occurs days after ovulation.
• D. Conception occurs only during menses.

Answer: (B)

Conception timing is determined by the interplay of how long sperm survive in the female reproductive tract and how long the egg remains viable after ovulation. Sperm can live for several days, while the egg is only viable for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation. Because of that, fertilization is most likely to occur when intercourse happens in the days leading up to ovulation or on the day of ovulation itself. This makes conception typically around ovulation rather than strictly at the moment of ovulation or several days after, and it also means it’s unlikely to occur during menses when ovulation hasn’t occurred yet.