What term is used to describe the length of time from conception to birth?

The term used to describe the length of time from conception to birth is "gestation." This period is critical in the reproductive cycle of mammals, as it encompasses the entire development of the fetus from the point of fertilization until delivery. Different species have varying gestation lengths, which is important to understand in livestock management, breeding practices, and veterinary medicine.

Lactation refers to the period during which a mother produces milk to feed her offspring after birth, and does not pertain to the time before birth. Fertilization occurs when an egg and sperm unite to form a zygote, marking the beginning of potential development, but not the entire timeframe leading to birth. Insemination is the process of introducing sperm into the reproductive tract of a female for the purpose of achieving fertilization, which is distinct from gestation that follows this event. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone working in the field of livestock management or veterinary care.