Correct Answer: A. Ampulla
Fertilization occurs in the ampulla of the fallopian tube, which is the widest and most distensible segment. The ampulla is located in the lateral third of the tube, immediately distal to the isthmus. After ovulation, the oocyte is picked up by the fimbriae and transported into the infundibulum, then into the ampulla where it typically encounters spermatozoa. The ampulla provides the optimal environment for sperm-oocyte interaction because: (1) it has the largest luminal diameter, allowing sperm to reach the oocyte easily; (2) it contains abundant secretions rich in nutrients and factors that support gamete survival; (3) the slower peristalsis here allows adequate time for fertilization to occur. The zygote then undergoes cleavage divisions as it travels through the isthmus over 3–4 days before reaching the uterine cavity as a blastocyst. This anatomical fact is fundamental to understanding normal conception and is critical for recognizing ectopic pregnancy sites (ampullary pregnancies are the most common type, accounting for ~70% of tubal pregnancies in Indian obstetric practice).
Why the other options are wrong
B. Isthmus — The isthmus is the narrow, muscular segment between the ampulla and the uterine cavity. Although spermatozoa and the early zygote pass through it, fertilization does not occur here because the isthmus is too narrow and has stronger peristalsis that propels the embryo toward the uterus rather than allowing time for sperm-oocyte fusion. The isthmus is a transit zone, not a fertilization site. C. Interstitial — The interstitial (intramural) segment is the shortest portion of the tube, embedded within the myometrium. Fertilization does not occur here; this segment is a transition zone between the isthmus and the uterine cavity. Pregnancies implanting in the interstitial region are a rare but dangerous form of ectopic pregnancy with high rupture risk. D. Infundibular — The infundibulum is the funnel-shaped distal end with fimbriae that capture the oocyte post-ovulation. While the oocyte enters here first, fertilization typically does not occur in the infundibulum itself because the oocyte must travel further into the ampulla where conditions are more favorable for sperm penetration and fusion.
High-Yield Facts
- Ampulla is the widest segment of the fallopian tube and the most common site of fertilization.
- Ampullary ectopic pregnancy accounts for ~70% of all tubal pregnancies in Indian obstetric series.
- The oocyte spends 12–24 hours in the ampulla before the zygote begins transit toward the uterus.
- Fallopian tube anatomy: infundibulum → ampulla → isthmus → interstitial segment (proximal to distal).
- Peristalsis is slowest in the ampulla, allowing adequate time for sperm-oocyte interaction and early cleavage.
Mnemonics
FAII (Fallopian tube Anatomy In sequence) Fimbriae (infundibulum) → Ampulla (fertilization) → Isthmus (transit) → Interstitial (uterine entry). Use this to recall the anatomical sequence and remember that the ampulla is the second major segment where fertilization happens. Wide = Fertilization The ampulla is the widest part of the tube → widest = best for sperm-oocyte meeting → fertilization site. Narrow isthmus = transit only. Quick memory hook for exam day.
NBE Trap
NBE may pair "infundibulum" (the funnel that captures the oocyte) with fertilization to trap students who confuse the site of oocyte pickup with the site of fertilization. The infundibulum is where the oocyte enters the tube, not where it is fertilized.
Clinical Pearl
In Indian obstetric practice, when a patient presents with acute lower abdominal pain and positive β-hCG, ampullary ectopic pregnancy is the most likely tubal site to suspect. Early ultrasound diagnosis at 6–8 weeks can guide conservative management (methotrexate) versus surgical intervention, reducing maternal mortality in resource-limited settings.
_Reference: DC Dutta's Textbook of Obstetrics, Ch. 2 (Anatomy of Female Genital Tract); OP Ghai's Essential Obstetrics, Ch. 1_