If only a small volume of sperm is discharged into the vagina, an insufficient amount of enzymes might be released when sperm encounters the ovum. What would be the result for pregnancy?
A) The block to polyspermy (cortical reaction) would not occur.
B) The fertilized ovum would be unable to implant in the uterus.
C) Sperm would be unable to penetrate the zona pellucida of the ovum.
D) Peristalsis of the fallopian tube would decrease, making it difficult for the ovum to enter the uterus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sperm penetration of the zona pellucida, the outer layer of the ovum, relies on enzymes released by the sperm. If insufficient enzymes are released due to a small volume of sperm, sperm may struggle to penetrate the zona pellucida, hindering fertilization.

If Only a Small Volume of Sperm Is Discharged into the Vagina