ABSTRACT
A large number of sexual interactions occur every day and a small percentage do result in conception. The 23 chromosomes from a single male sperm and 23 from one released ovum unite and an embryo develops. Of these conceptions, not all will result in a baby:
a large number never become implanted in the uterine wall due to natural causes, medication, or a contraceptive.
for many a pregnancy begins but a spontaneous (natural) abortion occurs to interrupt it. This also may be called a miscarriage when the pregnancy has been recognized.
for another large number, an induced (therapeutic) abortion terminates the pregnancy.
for some a birth results. The closer to term (nine months) and the healthier, the more likely the infant is to survive.
