What Is Superfecundation
Superfecundation is the fertilization of two or more ova released during the same menstrual cycle by sperm from separate acts of intercourse. This can result in twins who share the same mother but have different biological fathers.
How It Can Lead to Twins
When a woman releases multiple eggs and has intercourse with different partners within a short window, sperm from each partner can fertilize a separate egg. The resulting twins are dizygotic and may have different fathers. This is distinct from superfetation, which involves a second conception after an existing pregnancy is already established.
Key Facts and Rarity
Superfecundation is rare in humans but documented in medical literature. It is more common in species that produce multiple eggs per cycle, such as some mammals. Genetic testing and twin zygosity studies can confirm whether twins share the same or different fathers.
