Question

Test tube baby means a baby born when

• A. It is developed in a test tube
• B. It is developed through tissue culture method
• C. The ovum is fertilized externally and thereafter implanted in the uterus
• D. It develops from a non-fertilized uterus

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The term "test tube baby" is commonly used to describe a baby that is conceived through a process known as in vitro fertilization (IVF). This procedure involves the fertilization of an ovum (egg) outside the human body. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Process of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
   • First, mature eggs are collected (retrieved) from the ovaries of a woman.
   • These eggs are then fertilized by sperm in a laboratory environment. This process occurs in a petri dish or similar container rather than directly inside a "test tube". However, the term "test tube baby" became popular as a simplified term for this high-tech lab procedure.
   • Once the egg is successfully fertilized and an embryo forms, it is monitored for a few days (usually 3 to 5 days) in the lab to ensure proper development.
   • The healthy embryo is then implanted into the woman's uterus with the hope of achieving a successful pregnancy.
2. Correct Option Analysis: The correct answer is: The ovum is fertilized externally and thereafter implanted in the uterus. This option accurately describes the IVF process, where fertilization takes place outside the body, and the embryo is later implanted into the uterus.
3. Eliminating Other Options:
   • It is developed in a test tube: This is a misnomer as developing the entire baby in a test tube isn't possible; only fertilization occurs externally.
   • It is developed through tissue culture method: This method applies to growing cells or tissues in a nutrient medium, not for creating embryos/babies.
   • It develops from a non-fertilized uterus: This is biologically incorrect as fertilization is necessary for embryo development.

In conclusion, IVF is a sophisticated medical technique that assists couples in conceiving by performing fertilization outside the body and then transferring the embryo into the uterus.