Forensic Medicine · Forensic Sexology & Obstetrics

Superfecundation, Superfetation & Medicolegal Importance of Marriage

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Superfecundation

Superfecundation is fertilization of two or more ova released during the same menstrual cycle by sperm from separate acts of sexual intercourse.

Result: fetuses of different gestational ages.

Types

  • Heteropaternal Superfecundation — different fathers.
  • Homopaternal Superfecundation — same father.

Medicolegal Importance

  • Paternity disputes.
  • Twin pregnancies with different fathers.

Superfetation

Superfetation is fertilization and implantation of a second ovum during an already existing pregnancy.

Medicolegal Importance

  • Rare phenomenon.
  • Important in disputed paternity and legitimacy cases.