SUPERFETATION Meaning and
Definition
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Superfetation is a term used in biology and reproductive medicine to describe the occurrence of a subsequent pregnancy in a female that is already pregnant. Specifically, it refers to the phenomenon where a woman or female animal ovulates and conceives a second, separate pregnancy while already carrying a developing fetus in her womb.
Superfetation is a rare and somewhat controversial concept, as the female reproductive system typically undergoes hormonal changes that prevent ovulation once conception has occurred. However, in some rare instances, hormonal regulation may be disrupted, resulting in the release and fertilization of a second egg. This can lead to the occurrence of a second, separate pregnancy, with embryos of different ages developing simultaneously within the uterus.
The occurrence of superfetation is incredibly rare in humans, with only a few documented cases. It is more commonly observed in certain animal species, such as rabbits and marsupials. In these cases, the female can become pregnant with a second litter while already carrying and nurturing the previous one.
The concept of superfetation has intrigued scientists and medical professionals because it challenges traditional notions of reproductive biology. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and factors that contribute to this phenomenon may provide insights into the complexities of fertilization, implantation, and hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system.
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The presence of two fetuses of different ages, not twins, in the uterus; due to the impregnation of two ova liberated at successive periods of ovulation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A second conception while still with young.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SUPERFETATION
- auperfetation
- zuperfetation
- xuperfetation
- duperfetation
- euperfetation
- wuperfetation
- syperfetation
- shperfetation
- sjperfetation
- siperfetation
- s8perfetation
- s7perfetation
- suoerfetation
- sulerfetation
- su-erfetation
- su0erfetation
- supwrfetation
- supsrfetation
- supdrfetation
Etymology of SUPERFETATION
The word superfetation originated from the Latin term superfetatio, which is the noun form of the verb superfetare. Superfetate in Latin means to conceive or become pregnant while already pregnant. The Latin term is a combination of the prefix super, meaning above or beyond, and the verb fetare, meaning to impregnate. When combined, superfetatio refers to a conception that occurs after a previous conception has already taken place. From Latin, the word was adopted into French as superfétation, and later entered the English language as superfetation.
Similar spelling words for SUPERFETATION
- superpatriotic,
- superfetate,
- superficiality,
- superfatted,
- supervision,
- superficies,
- supervention,
- superficial,
- superpatriotism,
- superfecta,
- superfecundation,
- superposition,
- superfluity.
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