Delays during Reproduction and Their Effects on the Embryo and Fetus

Abstract

DURING the reproductive process, various kinds of naturally occurring or experimental delays can take place. Some are harmless to the offspring, some can prevent fertilization or destroy the conceptus, and some can damage it to a degree consistent with survival but with a congenital defect.Because the reproductive process is itself complex, the different manners and situations in which faulty timing can enter and influence the normal sequence of events are numerous and, on first encounter, surprising in their ramifications. Usually, delays during reproduction have been observed by workers intent on some purpose besides determining the ability of such delays . . .