Question

What stops sperm from reaching the egg?

Answer 1

Sperm:

1. Sperm is a male reproductive cell, often known as a gamete.
2. A sperm is typically a tiny, compact cell that is highly specialized for fertilizing an egg.

The sperm must complete two things in order to penetrate the egg:

1. Break through the cumulus oophorus, a clump of cells that surrounds the egg. An enzyme in the sperm dissolves these cells.
2. Break through the egg's outer membrane. An enzyme is used by the sperm to fuse to and break down the membrane.

Sperm is stopped by:

1. When a sperm enters an egg, the membrane changes and becomes impenetrable to other sperms.
2. There might be a variety of circumstances preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.
3. For example, sperm may be unable to get through the cervical mucous.
4. Alternatively, the sperm may be unable to enter the egg's coating.
5. Infertility is frequently caused by blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, which prevent sperm from accessing the egg.
6. A low sperm count, as well as irregular sperm motility or morphology, might prevent it from reaching the egg.