HESI Maternal Newborn Related

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In the context of an average ejaculation, which of the following statements is true about sperm?

  • A. The average count of sperm in the ejaculate is 2.5 billion.
  • B. Sperm in the ejaculate find the ovum by following the current of the fluid coming from the cervix.
  • C. Only 1 in 1,000 sperm in the ejaculate will ever approach an ovum.
  • D. Most of the sperm in the ejaculate move about in a random pattern in the vagina.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Out of millions of sperm released during ejaculation, only a small fraction, about 1 in 1,000, will approach the ovum. This statement is true as sperm face many obstacles and challenges on their journey to reach and fertilize an ovum. Choice A is incorrect because the average count of sperm in an ejaculate is typically in the millions, not billions. Choice B is incorrect as sperm do not find the ovum by following the current of fluid; they navigate using other mechanisms. Choice D is incorrect because while some sperm may move randomly in the vagina, the ones that approach the ovum do so through a more purposeful and directed movement.