Glossary

• A
• Amino Acid

  Amino acid - break up into separate amino acids break up into separate amino acids (alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine) is a part of organic molecules containing an amino group, which can combine in linear arrays to form proteins in living organisms.

  There are twenty common amino acids: alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. (alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine) is one of the key components in all living things. Proteins are synthesized by formation of peptide bonds during ribosomal translation of messenger RNA.

  All the amino acids have the L configuration, except glycine, which is not optically active. Other amino acids occurring in proteins, such as hydroxyproline in collagen, are formed by post translational enzymatic modification of amino acid residues in polypeptide chains. There are also several important amino acids, such as the neurotransmitter x aminobutyric acid, that have no relation to proteins. Amino acids can now be produced by biotechnology in bulk using fermentation and biotransformation.

  Amino acids, Proteins, amino groups, peptides, peptide chains, fermentation, collagen, organic molecules, alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine, ribosomal translation of messenger RNA, RNA, enzymatic modification.

  Faciodigitogential dysplasia

  Faciodigitogential dysplasia - this disorder is characterized by multiple birth defects including wide spaced eyes (ocular hypertelorism), front-facing (anteverted) nostrils, a broad upper lip, a malformed ("saddle-bag") scrotum, and laxity of the ligaments resulting in bending back of the knees (genu recurvatum), flat feet, and overly extensible fingers.

  This condition is inherited. There are X-linked and autosomal (non-X-linked) forms of the disease. The gene for the X-linked form of the disease has been mapped to chromosome band Xp11.21.

  The disease is named for DJ Aarskog (1928-) and CI Scott, Jr. (1934-), Norwegian and American pediatricians, respectively, who described it in 1970-71. It is also known as Aarskog-Scott syndrome. The transfer of A-S syndrome onto a child can be prevented by Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) if the genetic counselor recommends PGD to prospective parents.

  Genetics, genetic diseases, inherited diseases, family diseases, inheritance, X-linked, X-linked disease, PGD, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, chromosome, birth defects, inherited condition, autosomal, chromosome band

• Abdominal Hysterectomy

  Hysterectomy - The removal of the uterus. Can be done through opening of the abdomen or, in some situations, through the vagina. Only the uterus is removed. When fallopian/uterine tubes are removed, it is called salpingectomy. When the ovaries are removed, it is called oophorectomy. When both organs are removed, it is called hysterectomy with salping-oophorectomy. (these can be linked to) (needs Keywords)

• Abdominoscopy

  Abdominoscopy - a type of surgery that uses a laparoscope, which is inserted through one or more small incisions, to examine the abdominal cavity. Practically the entire abdomen and its organs can be inspected. The procedure was revived in the 1960's and 1970's, and has become the most frequently performed surgery. It is also known as peritineoscopy (?) pelviscopy, and laparoscopy. It could be done for diagnostic purposes only, that is, to find the source of complaint of the patient. Frequently it is combined with a therapeutic procedure, at which time the problem is corrected. It significantly shortens the stay in the hospital/surgery center. The diagnostic procedure is frequently done on an outpatient basis, without true admission to the hospital. Operative laparoscopy usually calls for a day or two of hospital stay. (needs Keywords)

• Abduct

  Abduct - to move away from the body.

  Adduct - to move toward the body.

• Ablation

  The procedure could be performed by several techniques, which became known as "separation," "detachment," "extirpation," "eradication," "removal," "destruction," and "cutting."

  Ablation, separation, detachment, extirpation, eradication, removal, destruction, cutting

• Abortion

  A loss of pregnancy that could happen without any induction, and frequently for reasons that are not quite clear.

  Spontaneous Abortion: A pregnancy loss during the first twenty weeks of gestation.

  Habitual Abortion: When a woman has had three or more spontaneous miscarriages, one after the other. There obviously is a reason for these occurrences, which sometimes could be obvious, and sometimes even after numerous investigations remains undetected.

  Incomplete Abortion: A situation when some of the products of conception (placenta or fetus) remain inside the uterus. A D&C or vacuum aspiration must be performed to remove the tissue and prevent complications, especially bleeding/hemorrhage and/or infection.

  Missed Abortion: A situation where the fetus dies in the uterus, but there is no bleeding or cramping for a couple of days. A D&C or vacuum will be needed to remove the products of conception and prevent complications specifically bleeding/hemorrhage and/or infection.

  Therapeutic Abortion: A procedure used to terminate a pregnancy before the fetus can survive on its own. Early termination is relatively safe and usually uncomplicated. Termination of more advanced pregnancies risk immediate and/or delayed complications. Some may be quite serious inclusive of possible death.

  Threatened Abortion: Spotting or bleeding that occurs early in the pregnancy. May progress to spontaneous abortion. If timely diagnosed and properly treated most threatening abortions will progress to successful delivery of normal and healthy baby.

  Miscarriage, Dilations, Curettage, Dilation and curettage, vacuum aspiration, conception, infection of the uterus, endometritis, PID, pelvic inflammatory disease, dead fetus, spontaneous abortion, habitual abortion, incomplete abortion, missed abortion, therapeutic abortion, threatened abortion, gestation, products of conception, complications, fetus, infection, bleeding, hemorrhage, early termination, D&C (same keywords for each except for abortion types)

• Anticardiolipin Antibodies

  Anticardiolipin Antibodies - an antibody directed against cardiolipin. These are one of the antiphospholipid group of antibodies. They are the most widely accepted and tested for immune factor. Approximately 80% of patients who have an antiphospholipid antibody problem will test positive for anticardiolipin antibodies. The remaining 20% will test positive for one of the other six antiphospholipid antibodies. These antibodies are believed to be one of the frequent causes of miscarriages. Various therapies have been designed to control the condition and allow for normal pregnancy to occur.

  Keywords: abortion, miscarriage, pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, steroids, immunoglobulins, globulins, anticardiolipin, antibodies, cardiolipin, antiphospholipid, immune factor, antiphospholipid antibodies

• Acquired Immunity

  Acquired immunity - a state in which a host is not susceptible to infection or disease, or the mechanisms by which this is achieved. Immunity is achieved by an individual through one of three routes: natural or innate immunity genetically inherited or acquired through maternal antibody, acquired immunity conferred after contact with a disease, and artificial immunity after a successful vaccination. Also termed specific immunity, resistance or specific resistance.

  Specific immunity is divided into cellular immunity acting via the direct involvement of T cells and humoral immunity involving antibodies and B cells.

  Immunity, innate immunity, acquired immunity, maternal antibody, infection, disease, humoral immunity, artificial immunity, specific immunity, resistance, specific resistance, vaccination, cellular immunity, T cells

• Acquired Mutations

  Acquired mutations - gene changes that arise within individual cells and accumulate throughout a person's lifetime; also called somatic mutations.

  Acquired mutations, mutations, somatic mutations, gene changes, genes, cells

• Acrosome

  Acrosome - the packet of enzymes in a sperm's head that allows the sperm to dissolve a hole in the coating around the egg, which allows the sperm to penetrate and fertilize the egg.

• ACTH - Adrenal Corticotropic (Adrenocorticotropic) Hormone.

  Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone (ACTH) - A hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the adrenal glands. Excessive levels may lead to fertility problems.

  A protein hormone of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex.

  A peptide hormone that is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoid hormones, which help cells synthesise glucose, catabolize proteins, mobilize free fatty acids and inhibit inflammation in allergic responses.

• ACTH suppression test Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

  ACTH suppression test - this test is performed when adrenal disease is suspected; it can differentiate adrenal disease (altered response to ACTH) from pituitary disorders (altered production of ACTH). The secretion of ACTH from the pituitary gland is normally regulated by the level of cortisol in the plasma. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. As plasma cortisol levels increase, ACTH secretion is suppressed, as cortisol levels decrease and ACTH increases. Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid similar to cortisol, which suppresses ACTH secretion in normal people. Administering dexamethasone should reduce ACTH levels resulting in decreased cortisol levels.

  How The Test Is Performed

  There are basically 2 ways to give the test: the rapid method and the 6-day method. In the rapid method, 1 mg of dexamethasone is given at 11 P.M., and the blood is drawn (venipuncture) at 8 A.M. for a cortisol measurement. If no decrease in the amount of cortisol is seen, the test is repeated with an 8-mg dose of dexamethasone.

  In the 6-day method, urine is collected at 24-hour intervals over 6 days for measurement of cortisol or 17-OCHS. On day 3, a low dose (0.5 mg) of dexamethasone is given by mouth every 6 hours for 24-hours. On day 5, the procedure is repeated with a high dose (2.0 mg) of dexamethasone.

  Venipuncture (blood drawing)

  When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. Some patients have very small veins, moving veins, or deep veins and puncturing them might be very difficult even in hands of an experienced venipuncturist and repeated attempts may be necessary.

  How To Prepare For The Test

  The health care provider may advise to discontinue drugs that could affect the test results. Drugs that can affect test results include barbiturates, estrogens, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, spironolactone, and tetracyclines.

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• Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT)

  Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time- APTT is a coagulation test performed by adding a partial thromboplastin reagent (contact activating substance such as silica, phospholipid, and calcium) to citrated plasma, and measuring the time to clot (normal 25 - 35 seconds). This test is often used when patients are on medications that thin blood, such as Heparin.

  Blood clotting, blood clot, embolus, Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time, APTT, Thromboplastin Time, Thromboplastin, coagulation test, coagulation, partial thromboplastin, phospholipid, calcium, citrated plasma, plasma, Heparin, Partial Thromboplastin, blood thinning.

• Addison Disease

  Addison disease - is a consequence of long-term under function of the outer portion of the adrenal gland. In medical terms, chronic insufficiency of the adrenal cortex. This may be due to a number of different insults to the adrenal gland including physical trauma, hemorrhage, tuberculosis, and destruction of the cells in the pituitary gland that secrete ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) which normally drives the adrenal. Addison's disease is characterized by bronzing of the skin, anemia, weakness, and low blood pressure. The U.S. President J.F. Kennedy is said to have had Addison disease. The adrenal cortex insufficiency was named after the British physician Thomas Addison (1793-1860). When Addison identified adrenal insufficiency in 1849, tuberculosis (TB) was responsible for 70-90% of cases. As the treatment for TB improved, the incidence of adrenal insufficiency due to TB of the adrenal gland greatly decreased in developed countries. TB now accounts for around 20% of cases of primary adrenal insufficiency.

  Addison disease, adrenal gland, gland, insufficiency of the adrenal cortex, adrenal cortex, pituitary gland, pituitary, ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone, hormone, anemia, weakness, adrenal insufficiency, tuberculosis, TB, chronic insufficiency, insufficiency, trauma, hemorrhage, tuberculosis

• Adenine

  Adenine - one member of the A-T (adenine-thymine) base pair in DNA. The other base pair in DNA is G-C (guanine-cytosine). Each base pair forms a "rung of the DNA ladder." A DNA nucleotide is made of a molecule of sugar, a molecule of phosphoric acid, and a molecule called a base. The bases are the "letters" that spell out the genetic code. In DNA, the code letters are A, T, G, and C, which stand for the chemicals adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine, respectively. In DNA base pairing, adenine always pairs with thymine, and guanine always pairs with cytosine.

  Adenine, A-T, adenine-thymine, DNA, G-C, guanine-cytosine, nucleotide, DNA nucleotide, molecule, phosphoric acid, genetic code, code letters, thymine, guanine, cytosine, DNA base pairing, RNS, base molecule.

• Adenosis

  This condition includes:

  1.) Any disease of the glands. 2.) The abnormal development or formation of gland tissue. 3.) The presence in the vagina of multiple ectopic areas of glandular (columnar) epithelium.

  Adenosis, diseases, glands, ectopic areas, ectopic, glandular (columnar) epithelium, glandular, columnar, epithelium, glandular epithelium

  Adhesins, escherichia coli Adhesins, escherichia coli - thin, filamentous protein structures, including proteinaceous capsular antigens (fimbrial antigens), that mediate adhesion of E. coli to surfaces and play a role in pathogenesis of adhesions. They have a high affinity for various epithelial cells.

  Adhesins, escherichia coli, filamentous proteins, proteinaceuous capsular antigens, capsular antigens, fimbrial antigens, antigens, adhesion, affinity

• Adhesion, scar

  Origin of the term is in Latin Adhaesio, from adhaerere = to stick to, form

  1. Adhesions or scar or scarring occurs when traumatized body parts join to each other in a stable fashion, which may occur under certain circumstances.

  2. A fibrous band or structure by which parts abnormally adhere.

  3. Scarring is a result of healing of tissue injury. It can be caused by infections such as gonorrhea or Chlamydia or by previous surgeries, such as removal of cysts, appendectomy, removal or destruction of endometriosis and most often by removal or uterine leiomyoma/fibroids by a procedure called myomectomy.

  4. Scar tissue forms in the abdominal cavity involuntarily; when it involves fallopian tubes, the ovary, or inside the uterus it can interfere with transport of the egg and implantation of the embryo in the uterus causing infertility. The adhesions can be removed surgically or if considered inoperable the patients should consider the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to achieve conception.

  Infertility, pregnancy, adhesion, scar, scarring, fibrous band, band, adhere, tissue injury, injury, infections, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, surgeries, uterine leiomyoma, leiomyoma, fibroids, myomectomy, fallopian tubes, tubes, ovary, uterus, transport of the egg, transport, egg, implantation, implantation of the embryo, embryo, inoperable, In Vitro Fertilization, IVF, conception, in vetro fertilization, I VF, IV F, invitro fertilization, traumatized body parts, Adhaesio, ashaerere, scar tissue

• Adnexa (adnexae)

  Adnexa (plural adnexae) - the region of the pelvis that includes the ovary, fallopian tube and surrounding broad ligament. Abnormalities or a disease of these structures frequently causes infertility and increases the risks of extrauterine/ectopic/tubal/ovarian pregnancy.

  Adnexa, pelvis, ovary, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterine tube, extrauterine pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, tubal pregnancy, ovarian pregnancy, pregnancy, infertility

• Adrenal Androgens

  Adrenal Androgens - Male hormones produced by the adrenal gland which, when found in excess, may lead to fertility problems in both men and women. Excess androgens in the woman may lead to the formation of male secondary sex characteristics and the suppression of LH and FSH production by the pituitary gland. Elevated levels of androgens may be found in women with polycystic ovaries, or with a tumor in the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, or ovary. May also be associated with excess prolactin levels.

  Adrenal androgens, male hormones, hormones, adrenal gland, infertility, excess hair, hirsutism, LH, FSH, adrenal, fertility problems, fertility, sex characteristics, pituitary gland, pituitary, polycystic ovaries, ovaries, prolactin

• Adrenal Corticotropic (Adrenocorticotropic) Hormone (ACTH).

  Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the adrenal glands. Abnormal levels may lead to fertility problems.

  It is chemically a peptide hormone that is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Besides others it stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoid hormones, which help cells synthesise glucose, catabolize proteins, mobilize free fatty acids and inhibit inflammation in allergic responses. The proper function can be examined by adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) suppression test.

  Allergy, infertility, Adrenal, Corticoptropic Adrenocorticotropic, Hormone, ACTH, Adrenal Corticotropic (Adrenocorticotropic) Hormone, pituitary gland, pituitary, adrenal, adrenal glands, fertility, fertility problems, peptide, peptide hormone, anterior pituitary gland, adrenal cortex, glucocorticoid, glucocorticoid hormones, synthesise glucose, glucose, catabolize, catabolize proteins, free fatty acids, fatty acids, acids, inflammation, allergic responses.

• Aetiological Fraction

  Aetiological fraction - The reduction in disease when a risk factor is removed. If I* is the number of people that a risk factor is responsible for and I is the total number of cases over the same period, then the aetiological fraction is I*/I. Equivalently, the aetiological fraction is (I-Io)/I. where Io is the number of cases in the absence of the risk factor. Also known as the attributable fraction.

  Aetiology, etiology, aetiological, etiological, disease, risk factor, attributable fraction

• Aetiology/Etiology

  The study of the causes of disease. Every disease is caused by a sometimes known/sometimes unknown condition. If the aetiology/etiology of the disease is known it can be more successfully treated and frequently prevented.

  Aetiology, etiology, causes of disease, disease, condition, treatment success, prevention success, treatment, prevention.

• AF - Aunt Flo (menstruation)

  Aunt Flo - A discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in non-pregnant breeding-age primate females and is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the non-pregnant state following changes accompanying the preceding ovulation, with production of ovarian hormones in cyclical fashion.

  The cyclic, physiologic discharge through the vagina of blood and mucosal tissues from the non-pregnant uterus, is under hormonal control and normally recurs, in the absence of pregnancy during the reproductive period (puberty through menopause) of the female of the human and a few species of primates. It is the culmination of the menstrual cycle.

  Aunt flo, menstruation, blood, secretions, tissue debris, ovarian hormones, cycle, menstrual cycle, ovaries, egg, uterus, reproduction, puberty, menopause

• Age-structured Model

  Age-structured model - a mathematical model which take into consideration the division of the host population into different age classes. Such models can be used to consider the consequences of such factors as age-dependent infection, morbidity or mortality rates or of age-specific vaccination schedules.

• Agglutination

  Agglutination - Clumping together. Sperm may clump together due to infection, inflammation or antibodies.

• Aggregation

  Aggregation - a distribution of parasites amongst hosts is said to be aggregated, or overdispersed, if parasites are found to co-occur in particular hosts more often than if the parasites were distributed at random amongst all hosts. A more precise test would be if the distribution differed significantly from a Poisson distribution; a good heuristic is whether the variance to mean ratio is bigger than unity (in appropriate units).

  Macroparasites are typically aggregated in their host populations, so that the majority of hosts harbour few or no parasites while a few hosts harbour large parasite burdens. Aggregated distributions are often well described empirically by the negative binomial distribution.

• AH - Assisted Hatching.

  Assisted Hatching (AH) - the process of helping an embryo to hatch by making a surgical slit in the zona pellucida or "shell" or by digesting this "shell" with special enzymes. It is indicated in most women over 40 years of age undergoing IVF, and when the zona pellucida is thick. Thinning out the zona pellucida prior to transferring the embryo into the uterus.

• AHI

  AHI - at-home Insemination

• AI - Artificial Insemination

  Artificial Insemination (AI) - Placing sperm into the vagina, uterus or fallopian tubes through artificial means instead of by coitus. Usually injected through a catheter or cannula after being washed. This procedure is used for both donor (AID) and husband's (AIH) sperm. This technique is used to overcome sexual performance problems, to circumvent sperm-mucus interaction problems, to maximize the potential for poor semen, and for using donor sperm.

  Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one type of artificial insemination that involves the placement of sperm inside the uterine cavity. The procedure involves the washing of sperm to obtain the best quality fraction and then injecting it (less than 0.5cc) into the uterus. A thin, soft catheter is used, connected to a syringe that contains the washed sperm. The catheter is introduced through the cervix and inside the uterus. Cramping sometimes does occur but it is usually short-lived. Artificial insemination is commonly used with ovulation inducing medications, when there is abnormal cervical mucus, and always with donor sperm.

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  Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

  Intrauterine insemination is a specific type of artificial insemination in which the sperm is inserted directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation. More than one insemination may be done to make sure it coincides with ovulation. In intrauterine insemination, the sperm is washed free of seminal fluid before being inserted into the uterine cavity. Artificial insemination is usually done when infertility is due to a male problem such as low sperm concentration or decrease motility. Common fertility problems among women where intrauterine insemination may be helpful are cervical mucus problems or immunologic problems.

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  AID - Artificial Insemination Donor AIS - Artificial Insemination Surrogate

  Artificial insemination using donor sperm. Donor sperm is thoroughly tested and maybe frozen for six months. The donor sperm is then carefully processed and inserted into the woman's vagina, cervical canal, or directly into the uterus. In order to be successful it needs to be done shortly prior to ovulation. AIS is done when the husband is sterile or severely infertile.

  Artificial Insemination Donor (AID), Insemination, Artificial Insemination Surrogate (AIS), Insemination Donor, Insemination Surrogate, AIS, donor insemination, sperm frozen, frozen sperm, male infertility, male sterility

• AIH - Artificial Insemination Homologous/Husband

  Artificial insemination is using the husband's sperm. The husband's sperm is carefully processed before inserting it into the woman's vagina, cervical canal or directly into the uterus. In order to be successful it needs to be done shortly prior to ovulation. AIS/AID is done when the husband is sterile or severely infertile. AIH is done when the husband is infertile, having low sperm count, or sperm with low motility or ejaculate with low volume.

  Donor sperm, husband sperm, uterine cavity, freezing, sperm freezing, cervical canal, vagina, ovulation, seminal fluid, cervical mucus, sperm concentration, sperm numbers, sperm motility, male infertility, infertility, husband insemination, AIH, homologous insemination, AIS, AID

• Artificial Insemination from Husband

• Alloimmune Factors

  Alloimmune Factors - Natural killer cells, leukocyte antigen cross match. Alloimmune factors can lead to pregnancy loss in two different ways. First, the body fails to recognize a pregnancy, and second, there is an abnormal immunological response to the pregnancy. A patient may be tested for leukocyte antibodies, natural killer cells, and embryo toxic factor. Possible treatments are intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) or paternal white blood cell immunization.

  Alloimmune Factors, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, immune system leukocytes, white cells, white blood cells, antibodies, intravenous immunoglobulin (IUIg), paternal white blood cells, globulin immunization, immunoglobulin

• Amenorrhea

  Amenorrhea - absence of menstruation, the absence or discontinuation or abnormal stoppage of the menstrual periods. Primary Amenorrhea afflicts a woman who has never menstruated. Secondary Amenorrhea afflicts a woman who has menstruated at one time, but who has not had a period for six months or more.

  Menstrual period, menstruation, absence of menstruation, amenorrhea, primary amenorrhea, menstrual cycle, secondary amenorrhea, menopause, hormones, hormonal disorder, menstrual dysfunction

• Amino Acid (AA)

  Amino acid - a class of organic molecules containing an amino group, which can combine in linear arrays to form proteins in living organisms.

  There are twenty common amino acids: alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine.

  They are key components in all living things from which proteins are synthesized by formation of peptide bonds during ribosomal translation of messenger RNA.

  All the amino acids have the L configuration, except glycine which is not optically active. Other amino acids occurring in proteins, such as hydroxyproline in collagen, are formed by post translational enzymatic modification of amino acid residues in polypeptide chains.

  There are also several important amino acids, such as the neurotransmitter y aminobutyric acid, that have no relation to proteins.

  Amino acids can now be produced by biotechnology in bulk using fermentation and biotransformation.

  Amino group, proteins, peptide bonds, peptides, poly peptides, poly peptides bond, RNA, DNA, ribosomes, L-configuration, neurotransmitters, synthetic aa, alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine, ,molecule, organic molecule, ribonucleic acid, desoxy ribonucleic acid, amniobutyric acid

• Amniocentesis

  Amniocentesis - A test where amniotic fluid is aspirated to test the fetus for genetic abnormalities.

  The surgical insertion of a hollow needle through the abdominal wall or the vagina into the uterus of a pregnant female to obtain amniotic fluid to examine the fetal chromosomes for an abnormality and for the determination of sex.

  In humans this is carried out, between the 12th and 16th week of pregnancy, by inserting a needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus.

  By karyotyping the cells and determining the genetic material present, it is possible to determine the sex of the fetus and whether it is suffering from certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome, spina bifida and presence of birth defects in the developing baby.

  Amniocentesis, pregnancy, prenatal test, genetics, genetic abnormalities, amniotic fluid, amniotic sac, chromosomes, chromosomes karyotype, karyotyping, Down's Syndrome, birth defects, fetus, PGD, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, sex, gender, gender determination, sex determination

• ANA

  Anti-nuclear Antibodies.

• Androgens

  Male reproductive hormones, such as testosterone. The male hormones are produced throughout early life in minute concentrations. At puberty the production reaches clinical levels, which then produce development of secondary characteristics of a young male. From then on the male hormones are produced. There is no definite abrupt stoppage of male hormones similar to menopause in women. The male reproductive hormone/testosterone is produced by developed testicles. Besides production of the male hormone, the testicles also produce sperm. One or the other function, or possibly both functions, can be affected by various clinical situations. These hormones may be produced in excess by the female in certain conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - PCOS.

• Andrologist

  A physician-scientist who performs laboratory evaluations of male fertility. May hold a Ph.D. degree instead of an M.D. Usually affiliated with a fertility treatment center working on in vitro fertilization.

• Aneuploidy

  Condition of having an abnormal number of chromosomes.

• Anovulation (AO)

  Failure or absence of ovulation.

  Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Antagonist (GaRH Antagonist)

  The generic name of this medication is ganirelix acetate or cetrorelix acetate. This new class of fertility medications available as Antagon (ganirelix acetate) and as centrotide (cetrorelix acetate) blocks the GaRH, resulting in a rapid suppression of the pituitary gland release of the gonadotropin called luteinizing hormone (LH). This hormone triggers ovulation process.

  GRH Antagonist, Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Antagonist, Antagon, centrotide, ganirelix acetate, cetrorelix acetate, LH, luteinizing hormone, hormone, ovulation, ovulation induction, ovulation suppression, ovary, stimulation of ovary, hyper stimulation of ovary, controlled simulation of ovary, controlled hyper stimulation of ovary

• Antenatal

  The period between conception and birth. Same as prenatal.

• Anteverted Uterus

  Uterus that tips forward toward bladder.

• Anthelmintic

  A drug, for example praziquantal, used specifically against helminth or worm infections.

• Anti-D (Rhogam)

  Anti-D - an immunization given to Rh-negative women after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or live birth to prevent production of antibodies in any Rh-positive babies they may have in future pregnancies.

• Anti-Sperm Antibodies (ASA)

  Antibodies are produced by the immune system to fight off foreign substances, like bacteria. Anti-sperm antibodies attach themselves to sperm and inhibit movement and their ability to fertilize. If directed specifically against the head of the sperm, they can prevent fertilization. Either men or women may produce sperm antibodies.

  There are different methods for testing for antibodies. A simple blood test can be done or a more sophisticated test called the immunobead sperm antibody assay. This test looks for antibodies directly attached to the sperm. The recommended treatment is In vitro fertilization (IVF) often combined with Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Immune system, foreign substances, bacteria, antibodies, infertility, blood test, assay, antibody assay, immunobead sperm antibody assay, sperm, sperm quality, sperm motility, sperm antibody, antisperm antibodies, IVF, In Vitro Fertilization, ICSI, Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection

• ATA

  Anti-thyroid Antibody

• Antibodies

  Antibodies - any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two substances that are produced by specialized cells in the body, called B cells. These substances attack foreign material that enters the body in order to prevent or fight off infection. Sometimes these substances may mistakenly recognize the body's organs or sperm as being foreign and attack them.

  These chemicals normally prevent infection; however, when they attack the sperm or fetus, they cause infertility or miscarriage. Sperm antibodies may be made by either the man or the woman.

  Antibodies, proteins of high molecular weight, proteins, molecular weight, antigen, cancer cells, cancer, B cells, sperm, infection, sperm, fetus, infertility, miscarriage, sperm antibodies

• Antibody

  Antibody is a protein produced in the blood of vertebrates following exposure to an antigen. The antibody binds specifically to the antigen and thus stimulates its inactivation by other parts of the immune system. The major classes of antibody are immmunoglobulin A, or IgA, found predominantly in bodily secretions like saliva; IgM and IgG which are typically produced sequentially in response to microparasitic infections; and IgE which is often elevated in the response to helminth infections. Only IgG is able to cross the placenta to provide maternal immunity.

  Antibody, protein, exposure to an antigen, antigen, immune system, immunoglobulin A, IgM, IgG, IgA, microparasitic infections, infections, IgE, helminth infections, maternal immunity, miscarriage, habitual miscarriage, unexplained miscarriage

• Anticardiolipin Antibodies (ACA)

  An antibody directed against cardiolipin. These are one of the antiphospholipid group of antibodies. They are the most widely accepted and tested for immune factor. Approximately 80% of patients who have an antiphospholipid antibody problem will test positive for anticardiolipin antibodies, but the remaining 20% will test positive for one of the other six antiphospholipid antibodies.

• Antigen

  A substance that causes antibodies to form. A protein, typically foreign, that elicits a specific immune response.

• Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)

  Antinuclear Antibodies - antinuclear antibodies react against normal components of the cell nucleus. They may be present in a number of immunologic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain collagen diseases, and in about 1% of normal individuals. If you have systemic lupus erythematosus, it can be transmitted through the placenta to the baby, resulting in heart problems.

• Antiovarian Antibodies (AOA, AVA)

  Antibodies against ovarian targets. Such antibodies would bind to important functional sites in the ovary and granulosa cells and impair the normal response.

• Antiphospholipid Antibodies (APA)

  Antiphospholipid Antibodies - antibodies which attack phospholipids. The presence of Antiphospholipid antibodies may indicate there is an underlying process that results in recurrent pregnancy loss. Phospholipids work to hold dividing cells together, and are necessary for growth of the placenta into the wall of the uterus. They also filter nourishment from the mother's blood to the baby, and filter the baby's waste back through the placenta. There are 7 antiphospholipid antibodies: anticardiolipin (ACA), phosphoethanolamine, phosphoinositol, phosphatidic acid, phosphoglycerol, phosphoserine, and hosphocholine.

• Antithyroid Antibodies (ATA)

  Antibodies that interfere with thyroid functions, and thus with normal metabolism. They are also indicators for a predisposition of the patient to auto immunity which may involve additional autoimmune problems that interfere with the reproductive process such as ACA, APA, ASA.

• AO (Anovulation)

  Anovulation - failure or absence of ovulation.

• AOA - Antiovarian antibodies.

  Antiovarian Antibodies (AOA, AVA) - antibodies against ovarian targets. Such antibodies would bind to important functional sites in the ovary and granulosa cells and impair the normal response.

• APTT - Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time

  Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) - a coagulation test performed by adding a "partial thromboplastin" reagent (contact activating substance such as silica, phospholipid, and calcium) to citrated plasma, and measuring the time to clot (normal 25 - 35 seconds). This test is often used when patients are on medications that thin blood, such as Heparin.

• Arbovirus

  A virus which uses Arthropods as vectors and is transmitted in their saliva to the definitive host. For example, yellow fever.

• Arcateuterus

  A mild deformity of the uterus that involves the presence of a very small separation in the midline of the fundus (the upper part of the uterus) inside the uterine cavity. This condition is usually not associated with infertility or recurrent miscarriages and therefore it rarely needs any form of therapy.

• ART - Assisted Reproductive Technology

  A term used to describe medical procedures which enhance the opportunity for egg fertilization and pregnancy. Examples include ICSI, IVF, GIFT and ZIFT

  Several procedures employed to bring about conception without sexual intercourse, including IUI, IVF, GIFT and ZIFT.

• Artificial Spermatocoele

  Artificial Spermatocoele - an artificial, surgically created pouch used to collect sperm from men with irreversible tubal blockage.

• Asherman's Syndrome

  Asherman's Syndrome - a condition where the uterine walls adhere to one another. Usually caused by uterine inflammation.

• Aspermia

  The absence of sperm and semen

• Aspiration

  Aspiration - suctioning of fluid. For example, suctioning the fluid from a follicle to retrieve an egg.

• ASRM

  ASRM - American Society of Reproductive Medicine

• Asthenozoospermia

  Asthenozoospermia - Low sperm motility.

• Asymptomatic

  Asymptomatic - having no symptoms.

• Attributable fraction

  Attributable fraction - the reduction in disease when a risk factor is removed. If I* is the number of people that a risk factor is responsible for and I is the total number of cases over the same period, then the etiological fraction is I*/I. Equivalently, the etiological fraction is (I-Io)/I. where Io is the number of cases in the absence of the risk factor. Also known as the Etiological fraction.

  Disease reduction, disease risk, risk factors, population, etiological fraction, etiology

• Aunt Flo (AF - menstruation)

  Aunt Flo - a discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in nonpregnant breeding-age primate females at approximately monthly intervals and that is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the nonpregnant state following proliferative changes accompanying the preceding ovulation.

  The monthly discharge of blood from the uterus of nonpregnant women from puberty to menopause.

  The cyclic, physiologic discharge through the vagina of blood and mucosal tissues from the nonpregnant uterus, it is under hormonal control and normally recurs, usually at approximately four week intervals, in the absence of pregnancy during the reproductive period (puberty through menopause) of the female of the human and a few species of primates. It is the culmination of the menstrual cycle.

  Blood discharge, ovualtion, menstruation, hormonal control, menstrual cycle, reproductive period, nonpegnant uterus

• Autoimmune

  Autoimmune - an immune reaction against one's own tissue.

• Azoospermia

  Azoospermia - the complete absence of sperm in ejaculate. It can result from obstruction of the vas deferens (the duct that takes the sperm from the testicles to the urethra) or from failure of the testicles to produce sperm.

  Obstructive Azoospermia - the result of obstruction in either the upper or lower male reproductive tract (epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles or ejaculatory ducts). Sperm production may be normal (which may be verified through testicular biopsy), but the obstruction is preventing the sperm from being ejaculated. Some causes of obstructive azoospermia are vasectomy, congenital absence of vas deferens, scarring from past infections, and hernia operations. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles. Non-obstructive Azoospermia: Severely impaired or non-existent sperm production in the testicle.

  Sperm, ejaculate, vas deferens, absence of vas deferens, congenital absence of vas deferens, sperm production, obstruction, male reproductive tract, testicular biopsy, vasectomy, hormones, hormones al dysfunction, azoospermia, semen, infertility, sterility, testicle, obstructive azoospermia, non-obstructive azoospermia

• B
• B cell

  White blood cell which produces antibody.

• BA - Baby Aspirin

  Low dose aspirin (80-100 mg) used in infertility treatment to increase blood flow to the uterus. Often used in conjunction with Heparin in patients with immune problems.

• Bacteraemia

  The presence of bacteria in the blood.

• Bacteria

  A group (as a genus, species, or strain) of bacteria - used chiefly in nontechnical writing and in news broadcasts usage. Bacteria is regularly a plural in scientific and pedagogical use; in speech and in journalism it is also used as a singular . This journalistic use is found in British as well as American sources.

  One of the two major classes of prokaryotic organism (the other being the Cyanobacteria). Bacteria are small (linear dimensions of around 1 m), noncompartmentalised, with circular DNA and ribosomes of 70S.

  Protein synthesis differs from that of eukaryotes and many antibacterial antibiotics interfere with protein synthesis, but do not affect the infected host. Recently bacteria have been subdivided into Eubacteria and Archaebacteria, although some would consider the Archaebacteria to be a third kingdom, distinct from both Eubacteria and Eukaryotes.

  The Eubacteria can be further subdivided on the basis of their staining using Gram stain. Since the difference between gram-positive and gram-negative depends upon a fundamental difference in cell wall structure it is therefore more soundly based than classification on gross morphology alone (into cocci, bacilli, etc.).

• Bacterial Vaginosis

  Bacterial Vaginosis - it occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes and an overgrowth of some bacteria normally found in the vagina occurs. It is associated with infertility, miscarriage, pre-term birth, and low-birth weight babies.

• Bacterium

  Bacterium - any of a group (as kingdom Procaryotae syn. Monera) of prokaryotic unicellular round, spiral, or rod-shaped single-celled microorganisms that are often aggregated into colonies or motile by means of flagella, that live in soil, water, organic matter, or the bodies of plants and animals, and that are autotrophic, saprophytic, or parasitic in nutrition and important because of their biochemical effects and pathogenicity.

  A tiny, unicellular, prokaryotic organism that reproduces by cell division and usually has a cell wall, can be shaped like a sphere, rod or spiral and can be found in virtually any enviroment.

• Bacteriuria

  Bacteriuria - the presence of bacteria in the urine with or without consequent urinary tract infection. Since bacteriuria is a clinical entity, the term does not preclude the use of urine/microbiology for technical discussions on the isolation and segregation of bacteria in the urine.

• Balanced Translocation (BT)

  Balanced Translocation is present if a person has the correct number of chromosomes, but the pieces are joined up incorrectly. The problem can be inherited from one parent and then balanced out by the other. If both partners have similar problems, recurrent miscarriage may occur. If patients experience, repeated miscarriage without satisfactory explanation, the examination of chromosomes is in order. It is done through a new technique called Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis -PGD. An early embryo is examined, cultured to approximately 8 cell stage. One cell is carefully removed and its chromosomal make-up examined by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization -FISH. Only embryos confirmed to be normal and implanted into the uterus.

  Inheritance, genetics, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, PGD, embryo, balanced translocation, translocation, chromosomes, repeated miscarriages, miscarriages, Genetic Diagnosis, 8 cell stage, chromosomal make-up, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, FISH

• Basal body temperature (BBT)

  Basal body temperature provides indirect evidence of ovulation using a basal temperature chart. The temperature is taken orally with a special thermometer immediately upon awakening and before any activity. It is then recorded on a special graph called temperature chart that enables visualization of different temperature shifts. The temperature will go down to its lowest point 1-2 days prior to ovulation and then rises and remains elevated until a couple of days before impending menstruation. The information provided by temperature taking is useful, but not definitely conclusive. Its value is in providing continuous daily information without a need of physical examinations, ultrasonographic studies, and hormonal testing. It is very important to take the temperatures carefully and daily. And the "price is right".

  Basal body temperature, body temperature, BBT, ovulation, temperature chart, temperature, special thermometer, thermometer, temperature shifts, special graph, graph, ovulation, impending menstruation, daily information, physical examinations, ultrasonographic studies, hormonal testing, fertility, fertility testing, fertility studies, hormones, pregnancy, conception

• Basic Reproductive Rate

  (1) Basic reproductive ratio, Ro, a dimensionless parameter which encapsulates the biological details of different transmission mechanisms. For microparasites, Ro, is defined as the average number of secondary cases of infection to which one primary case gives rise throughout its infectious period if introduced into a defined population consisting solely of susceptible individuals. For macroparasites, Ro, is the average number of female offspring (or just offspring in the case of hermaphroditic species) produced throughout the lifetime of a mature female parasite, which themselves achieve reproductive maturity in the absence of density-dependent constraints on the parasite establishment, survival or reproduction. Also known as the basic reproduction rate, number.

  (2) Effective reproductive ratio, R, The number of secondary cases (microparasites) or female offspring (macroparasites) produced in a host population not consisting entirely of susceptible individuals (microparasites) or within which density dependent constraints limit parasite population growth (macroparasites). Under conditions of stable endemic infection, R=1.

• BCP

  Birth Control Pills

• Beta HCG Test

  Beta HCG Test - a blood test used to detect very early pregnancies and to evaluate embryonic development. A beta test usually refers to a quantitative hCG in which the units of hCG are counted, but it sometimes refers to a qualitative (yes/no) test that reads to an hCG level under 50 (level is lab dependent).

• BG

  Blood Glucose.

• Bicornuate Uterus

  A congenital abnormality of the uterus that involves a partial lack of fusion of the two parts of the uterus. A single cervix is present. In the majority of cases it does not cause infertility, but recurrent miscarriages and premature births have been reported in rare instances. If treatment is needed, it is through abdominal surgical repair. A congenital malformation of the uterus where the upper portion (horn) is duplicated.

• BIDE

  Birth, Immigration, Death, Emigration: the four demographic processes which might act on a population compartment in a typical compartmental model.

• Blastocyst

  An embryo made up of two groups of cells. One group will develop into the fetus and the other will become the placenta. Following IVF, blastocysts are typically allowed to mature for five days outside the body and then are transferred into the uterus.

  An embryo that has developed for five days after fertilization. At this point the embryo has two different cell types and a central cavity. The surface cells (trophectoderm) will become the placenta, and the inner cell mass, will become the fetus. A healthy blastocyst should hatch from the zona pellucida by the end of the sixth day. Within about 24 hours after hatching, it should begin to implant into the lining of the uterus.

• Blastocyst Tranfer

  Allowing in vitro fertilized embryos to reach blastocyst stage, usually 5 days, before transferring the embryos into the uterus.

• Blastomere

  A cell produced during cleavage of a fertilized egg.

• Blighted Ovum

  A pregnancy that stops developing very early on. The amniotic sac may only contain fluid and no fetal tissue when the miscarriage occurs.

• Blood Glucose (BG)

  Blood sugar. Affected by food that is consumed.

• Breakpoint

  A critical average worm burden below which the mating frequency is too low to maintain a dioecious parasite species.

• Bromocriptine (Parlodel®)

  An oral medication used to reduce prolactin levels and reduce the size of a pituitary tumor when present. This medication often causes dizziness and upset stomach and must be started with a small dose which is gradually increased as needed. This medication is equally effective when the tablet is placed into the vagina.

• Buserelin

  A long-acting GnRH available in Europe as a nasal spray and used to create the pseudomenopause desirable for reducing the size and number of endometriotic lesions. It can also be used to treat fibroid tumors, PMS, hirsutism, ovulation induction and for in vitro fertilization.

• BW (b/w)

  Bloodwork

• C
• C-Peptide

  The connecting piece between insulin molecules. The C-peptide level can be used to gauge insulin production in the body.

• C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  A plasma protein that can be a marker for inflammatory activity.

• CAH - Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

  A congenital condition characterized by elevated androgens which suppress the pituitary gland and interfere with spermatogenesis or ovulation. Women may have ambiguous genitalia from the excess production of male hormone.

• Candidiasis (Yeast)

  An infection that may be uncomfortable and itchy and may impair fertility.

• Capacitation

  The changes that a sperm goes through to be capable of penetrating the layers covering the egg. It involves the sequential time release of a series of enzymes, which allows sperm to digest a passage through loose layers.

• Carrier

  An individual who is infected but has no symptoms of disease. There are two types of carrier state: silent carriers retain their infectiousness, while latent carriers are not infectious. For example, many of those infected with tuberculosis are silent carriers, while infection with herpes virus may create latent carriers.

• Carrying capacity

  The maximum number of individuals a habitat can sustainably support. Typically defined so as not to include losses from predation or disease.

• CASA

  Computer assisted Semen Analysis.

• Case-control study

  A study in which the risk factors of people with a disease are compared with those without a disease.

• Catalytic model

  Type of compartmental model in which the force of infection is treated as a parameter to be estimated.

• Cauterize

  To destroy tissue with heat, cold, or caustic substances in order to seal off blood vessels or ducts.

• Catheter

  A hollow flexible tube used to aspirate or inject fluids.

• CBAVD

  Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens.

• CCT - Clomiphene Citrate Challenge Test

  This test entails the oral (by mouth) administration of 100 milligrams of clomiphene citrate on menstrual cycle days 5-9. Blood levels of FSH are measured on cycle day 3 and again on cycle day 10. Elevated blood levels of FSH on cycle day 3 or cycle day 10 are associated with very low pregnancy.

• CD56+

  Natural Killer Cells (NK, CD56+) - large granular lymphocytes that bond to cells and lyze (causing dissolution) them by releasing cytotoxins. NK cells are known to be effective against cells infected with viruses and some types of tumor cells. When activated, NK cells function to fight, kill and destroy their targets and their excessive numbers in blood is correlated with pregnancy loss and reduced success in IVF cycle outcome. Proliferation of NK cells is produced by gamma interferon, interleukin-2, antibodies, retinoic acid, and prostoglandin-E. It is thought that NK cells may produce TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor).

• CDS

  Cul de sac or region of the pelvis immediately behind the uterus.

• Centrifuge

  A machine that separates materials with different densities by spinning them at high speed. Used in sperm washing.

• Cerclage

  A surgical stitch (suture) used to try to keep cervix tightly closed. Used for women with Incompetent Cervix.

• Cervical Cultures

  The process of obtaining samples (of secretions) from the cervix and culturing them on special media to detect the presence of infectious organisms such as chlamydia, gonococcus and ureaplasma. These sexually transmitted diseases, if present, can cause infertility by damaging the fallopian tubes or interfering with implantation of the embryo by affecting the inside lining of the uterus. They are usually treated with antibiotic therapy.

• Cervical Mucus (CM)

  A thick mucinous secretion that is present inside the cervical canal. It is produced by glandular cells that are present in the cervix. This mucus protects the uterus from invasion by bacteria present in the vagina. It also plays an important role in fertility. The cervical mucus, in response to the estrogen hormone, becomes thin and elastic at the time of ovulation. This allows the sperm to travel through the cervix and the uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube. It also helps the sperm stay alive in the crypts of the cervix for a longer period of time. Thick and dense mucus could prevent the passage of sperm through the cervix. The cervical mucus is checked by the postcoital test.

• Cervical Smear

  A sample of the cervical mucus examined microscopically to assess the presence of estrogen (ferning) and white blood cells, indicating possible infection.

• Cervical Stenosis

  Narrowing or blockage of the cervical canal in such a way that menstrual flow can partially or completely be impeded. It is often the result of cervical injury due to surgery such as a cone biopsy done for an abnormal pap smear. It can cause infertility by hampering the normal passage of sperm through the cervix.

• Cervicitis

  Inflammation of the cervix.

• Cervix

  The part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It is the segment that is checked for abnormal cells by a pap smear. It is connected to the uterine cavity by a hollow canal called the cervical canal. The cervix secretes mucinous secretions (see cervical mucus) that play a major role in the transport of sperm in its journey towards the egg.

• Cervix, Incompetent - Incompetent Cervix.

  A weakened cervix which opens prematurely during pregnancy and can cause the loss of the fetus. A cervical cerclage is a procedure in which a stitch or two is put around the cervix to prevent its opening until removed when the pregnancy is at term.

• Cetrorelix acetate

  GnRH antagonis, new class of fertility medications (available as Antagon, ganirelix acetate and as cetrorelix acetate) which block the effect of GnRH, resulting in a rapid suppression of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland.

• CF

  Cervical Fluid

• Chemical Pregnancy

  A pregnancy where hCG levels are detected, but the pregnancy is lost before a heartbeat is seen on an ultrasound. This is a very early miscarriage, often before the woman misses a period.

• Chemoprophylaxis

  Drug treatment designed to prevent future occurrences of disease. Treatment may be chemotherapy as far as an individual is concerned but chemopropylactic for the population as a whole.

• Chemotherapy

  Drug treatment of a diseased individual.

• Chlamydia

  A type of bacteria that is frequently transmitted sexually between partners or from an infected mother to her newborn child. The most common sexually transmitted bacterial disease

• Chocolate Cyst

  A cyst in the ovary that is filled with old blood, endometrioma. Occurring when endometriosis invades an ovary, it causes the ovary to swell. Frequently, patients with large endometriomas do not have any symptoms. If the cyst ruptures or the ovary containing the cyst twists, emergency surgery may be necessary. Usually treatment can be carried out through the laparoscope.

• Chorionic Villae Sampling (CVS)

  An alternative to amniocentesis that can be done earlier in the pregnancy. It is a biopsy of the placenta that is used to check for genetic abnormalities in the fetus.

• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

  A test that is done early during pregnancy to check for the presence of genetic disorders. It involves obtaining a biopsy of the placenta, usually between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. This biopsy is then tested to check for the presence of certain congenital defects, such as Down Syndrome.

• Chromopertubation (Chromotubation)

  His test is usually done in combination with a diagnostic laparoscopy. It involves injecting colored liquid through the fallopian tubes and watching the ends of the tubes for the dye. Spillage of dye indicates patent (open) tubes.

• Chromosome

  The nuclear structure of every living cell. Chromosomes are made up of genes that govern all the body's functions, and are also responsible for all the physical characteristics of an individual. Abnormalities of chromosomes can result in miscarriages or congenital abnormalities. Age affects the quality of chromosomes in an egg and that is why infertility and miscarriages are more common in older women. For instance, the incidence of Downs Syndrome increases when a woman gets older. Every human cell normally has 46 chromosomes. Human gametes (i.e. eggs and sperm) contain only 23 chromosomes. When unified during fertilization, the total number of 46 chromosomes is restored.

  The structures in the cell that carry the genetic material (DNA); the genetic messengers of inheritance. The human has forty-six chromosomes, twenty-three coming from the egg and twenty-three coming from the sperm.

• Chromosome Analysis (Karyotyping)

  A chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome or spina bifida.

  A chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for abnormalities. Testing a fetus may show if there is a chromosomal reason for the pregnancy loss, which causes about 50% of miscarriages. Testing the parents can help determine if there is an underlying chromosomal problem that increases the chances of repeated losses, which occurs in about 3% of couples with recurrent pregnancy loss.

  Chromotubation (Chromopertubation)

  This test is usually done in combination with a diagnostic laparoscopy. It involves injecting colored liquid through the fallopian tubes and watching the ends of the tubes for the dye. Spillage of dye indicates patent (open) tubes.

• Cilia

  Tiny hairlike projections lining the inside surface of the fallopian tubes. The waving action of these "hairs" sweeps the egg toward the uterus.

• Cleavage

  The series of cell divisions, or one of the cell divisions, of the fertilized egg that results in the formation of the blastomeres and changes the single-celled zygote into a multicellular embryo.

• Clomid® (Clomiphene citrate)

  Medication also known under generic name Clomiphene citrate. It is a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone that is commonly used for ovulation induction. It comes in 50 mg tablets that are taken by mouth once a day for 5 days in the early part of the menstrual cycle. It works by stimulating the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. Due to its antiestrogenic actions, some of its effects include abnormal cervical mucus and endometrial lining. The former can interfere with normal passage of sperm through the cervix to reach the egg, and the latter with implantation. Some women may complain of hot flashes (10%), nausea and/or breast discomfort (2-5%). Visual symptoms (blurring) occur rarely (less than 1.5%) but are an indication to discontinue therapy.

• Clomiphene citrate (Clomid®, Serophene®)

  Medication also known by the trade names of "Clomid®" and "Serophene®". A fertility drug that stimulates ovulation through the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary gland. It is a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone that is commonly used for ovulation induction. It comes in 50 mg tablets that are taken by mouth once a day for 5 days in the early part of the menstrual cycle. It works by stimulating the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. Due to its antiestrogenic actions, some of its effects include abnormal cervical mucus and endometrial lining. The former can interfere with normal passage of sperm through the cervix to reach the egg, and the latter with implantation. Some women may complain of hot flashes (10%), nausea and/or breast discomfort (2-5%). Visual symptoms (blurring) occur rarely (less than 1.5%) but are an indication to discontinue therapy.

• Clomiphene Citrate Challenge Test (CCCT, CCT)

  This test entails the oral (by mouth) administration of 100 milligrams of clomiphene citrate on menstrual cycle days 5-9. Blood levels of FSH are measured on cycle day 3 and again on cycle day 10. Elevated blood levels of FSH on cycle day 3 or cycle day 10 are associated with very low pregnancy.

• CM - Cervical Mucus

  A thick mucinous secretion that is present inside the cervical canal. It is produced by glandular cells that are present in the cervix. This mucus protects the uterus from invasion by bacteria present in the vagina. It also plays an important role in fertility. The cervical mucus, in response to the estrogen hormone, becomes thin and elastic at the time of ovulation. This allows the sperm to travel through the cervix and the uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube. It also helps the sperm stay alive in the crypts of the cervix for a longer period of time.T thick and dense mucus could prevent the passage of sperm through the cervix. The cervical mucus is checked by the postcoital test.

• CMV - Cytomegalovirus

  Group of viruses that cause enlargement of cells of various organs. Infection in a fetus can cause jaundice, high-tone deafness, eye problems, malformation, or fetal death. A herpes virus which causes glandular fever.

• CNM

  Certified Nurse Midwife

• Co-evolution

  Changes in the genotypes of two or more species that are a direct consequence of the species interaction with one another.

• COH - Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation.

  Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation.

• Cohort

  A subsection of a population with a common feature, usually age. For example, all those individuals in the USA born in 1972 form a birth cohort.

• Colposcopy

  Examination of the cervix through magnifying telescope to detect abnormal cells

• Compartmental model

  A mathematical model which divides hosts into different compartments according to their infectious state. A typical model for microparasites might be an SEIR model. Sometimes referred to as a prevalence model.

• Conception

  The fertilization of an egg by sperm that leads to the creation of a new being.

• Conceptus (concepti)

  Term given to an embryo which has been already implanted in the uterus.

• Condom Therapy

  Therapy prescribed to reduce the number of sperm antibodies in the woman by using a condom during intercourse for six months or more and by the woman refraining from all skin contact with the husband's sperm. The woman's antibody level may fall to levels that will not adversely affect the sperm.

• Cone Biopsy

  A surgical procedure used to remove precancerous cells from the cervix. The procedure may damage the cervix and thus disrupt normal mucus production or cause an incompetent cervix, which may open prematurely during pregnancy. A procedure where precancerous cells are removed from the cervix. Potential risks associated with this procedure include damage to the mucus membranes of the cervix and weakening the cervix so that it is unable to hold the fetus throughout the duration of a pregnancy.

• Congenital Defect

  A birth defect, acquired during pregnancy but not necessarily hereditary.

• Conization

  Treatment for abnormal or precancerous cells on the cervix in which a cone-shaped section of the cervix is removed. Surgical removal of a cone-shaped portion of the cervix, usually as a treatment for a pre-cancerous condition.

• Contagious distribution

  A distribution of parasites amongst hosts is said to be aggregated, or overdispersed, if parasites are found to co-occur in particular hosts more often than if the parasites were distributed at random amongst all hosts. A more precise test would be if the distribution differed significantly from a Poisson distribution; a good heuristic is whether the variance to mean ratio is bigger than unity (in appropriate units). Macroparasites are typically aggregated in their host populations, so that the majority of hosts harbour few or no parasites while a few hosts harbour large parasite burdens. Aggregated distributions are often well described empirically by the negative binomial distribution.

• Continuing Infertile

  Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH)

• Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH)

  Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation.

• Corpus Luteum

  The yellow-pigmented glandular structure that forms from the ovarian follicle following ovulation. The gland produces progesterone, which is responsible for preparing and supporting the uterine lining for implantation. Progesterone also causes the half-degree or more basal temperature elevation noted after ovulation. If the corpus luteum functions poorly, the uterine lining may not support a pregnancy. If the egg is fertilized, a corpus luteum of pregnancy forms to maintain the endometrial bed and support the implanted embryo. A deficiency in the amount of progesterone produced (or the length of time it is produced) by the corpus luteum can mean the endometrium is unable to sustain a pregnancy. This is called Luteal Phase Defect (LPD).

  A follicle that releases an egg at the time of ovulation is subsequently called the corpus luteum. This is initially a partially cystic space that later can become a full-blown cyst, and is very active in hormone secretion. Its major product is progresterone, which is an essential hormone that prepares the endometrium for implantation. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum "dies" roughly 10 to 14 days after ovulation. The result is a sudden drop in progesterone levels, which leads to menstruation. If, on the other hand, pregnancy occurs, the newly developing placenta secretes the HCG hormone (see HCG), which salvages the corpus luteum and stimulates it to continue producing progesterone. This placental support of the corpus luteum is indispensable for the first 7 weeks of pregnancy. From that point on, the placenta starts making its own progesterone and the corpus luteum is no longer needed. Therefore, it shrinks and becomes the "corpus albicans".

• COS - Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation.

  Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation.

• CP

  Cervical Position.

• Crude birth rate

  The number of live births in a year divided by the population size.

• Crude death rate

  The number of deaths in a year divided by the population size.

• Cryopreservation

  Freezing quickly and then storing, as in sperm, embryos, and, more recently, unfertilized eggs.

• Cryptorchidism - undecended testicles.

  When one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. The failure of the testicles to descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum by one year of age. If not repaired by age six, may result in permanent fertility loss.

• Cul de sac (CDS)

  Region of the pelvis immediately behind the uterus.

• Culture Media

  Culture Media - a specially formulated solution that enables growth and division of a fertilized egg outside of the body until embryo transfer takes place.

• Cumulus Oophorus

  The protective layer of cells surrounding the egg.

• Cushing's Syndrome

  A condition characterized by an overproduction of adrenal gland secretions. The person will suffer from high blood pressure and water retention as well as a number of other symptoms. A concurrent elevation of adrenal androgens will suppress pituitary output of LH and FSH and result in low sperm production or ovulatory failure. A woman may also develop male secondary sex characteristics, including abnormal hair growth. Cushing's Disease is another condition in which these same symptoms occur, but as the result of a pituitary tumor.

• CVS - Chorionic Villae Sampling

  An alternative to amniocentesis that can be done earlier in the pregnancy. It is a biopsy of the placenta that is used to check for genetic abnormalities in the fetus.

• CVS - Chorionic Villus Sampling

  A test that is done early during pregnancy to check for the presence of genetic disorders. It involves obtaining a biopsy of the placenta, usually between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. This biopsy is then tested to check for the presence of certain congenital defects, such as Down Syndrome.

• Cycle Day

  The day of a woman's menstrual cycle. The first day (day 1) is when full flow starts before mid-afternoon.

• Cyropreservation

  The process of freezing sperm or embryos in extremely low temperatures (-196°C). This technique has been used for decades to freeze sperm. It allows the sperm to be quarantined while the donor is tested for transmittable infectious diseases (such as HIV). The sperm can then be thawed when necessary and used in artificial insemination. The quality of thawed sperm is not as good as a fresh sample, but is very acceptable and without negative effects in the resulting offspring. More recently doctors have been able to freeze and preserve human embryos, including those resulting from in vitro fertilization. These embryos can also later be thawed and transferred back to the uterus. Pregnancy rates with frozen/thawed embryos are not as high as fresh embryos and range in the 15-30% range.

• Cyst

  A fluid-filled sac.

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

  A group of viruses that cause enlargement of cells of various organs. Infection in a fetus can cause jaundice, high-tone deafness, eye problems, malformation, or fetal death. A herpes virus which causes glandular fever.

• Cytoplasmic Transfer

  An extension of in vitro fertilization which takes the genetic material from a mother's egg and combines it with the cytoplasma of a donor egg. Two methods of cytoplasm transfer were developed, one which transfers a small amount of cytoplasm by tiny needle from the donor to the recipient egg, the other transfers a larger amount of cytoplasm which is then fused to the recipient cytoplasm with electricity.

• Cytotoxin

  An antibody or toxin that attacks the cells of particular organs.

• D
• D&C (Dilatation and curettage)

  The process of gradually dilating the cervix to the point of being able to introduce a sharp instrument (curette) to scrape the surface of uterine cavity (endometrium). A suction cannula is also used if the amount of tissue being removed is large. This procedure is often used to treat abnormal bleeding, incomplete miscarriages, and abnormal uterine pathology such as polyps and small fibroids. It is during sedation and sometimes under general anesthesia. Complications include infection and uterine perforation. This latter involves the passage of one of the instruments through the wall of the uterus and inside the abdominal cavity. In the majority of instances, similar observation is enough, since this artificially made hole seals on its own

• D&E - Dilation & Evacuation

  A procedure in which the cervix is dilated and the baby and placenta are removed. D&E is used to describe two different procedures. One is similar to a D&C and uses more suction than scraping, and is performed on first trimester pregnancies. A D&E can also be used to describe a surgical removal of a fetus between 14-20 weeks gestation as an alternative to induced labor.

• Danazol® (Danocrine)

  Danazol/Danocrine is a synthetic androgen frequently prescribed for treatment of endometriosis. It works by inhibiting the production of Luteinizing hormone LH and Follicle stimulating hormone FSH. That results in diminished levels of estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that support growth and activity of endometrial implants in endometriosis. Since this medication inhibits Luteinizing hormone LH and Follicle stimulating hormone FSH production, a woman will not ovulate nor menstruate while taking the drug. Common side effects include weight gain, acne abnormal hair growth, and oily skin. If the effects become significant the medication can be stopped immediately because it comes in capable form and is taken by month daily. This is an important advantage compared to other medication to treat endometriosis, which is administered by long lasting injection. The side effects reverse within short time.

  Danazol, Danocrine, luteinizing hormone, follicle, follicle stimulating hormone, synthetic androgen, androgen, treatment of endometriosis, endometriosis, LH, FSH, estrogen, endometrial implants, side effects, progesterone, ovulate, menstruate, hair growth, oily skin, weight gain, acne, abnormal, medication, side effects reverse

• Day 1

  The first day of a woman's cycle with menses in full flow (not just spotting). Flow should begin before mid-afternoon or the next day would be considered Day 1.

• Days Post-Ovulation (DPO)

  The number of days a woman is past ovulation. Counting begins the day after ovulation, so if ovulation is on Wednesday, Saturday would be 3 DPO.

• Days Post-Transfer (DPT)

  The number of days a woman is past embryo transfer. Counting begins the day after transfer, so if is on Monday, Friday would be 4 DPO.

• DE (Donor Eggs)

  Eggs donated by one woman to another.

• Definitive host

  The host in which a parasite reproduces sexually.

• Density-dependent

  Effects whose intensity increases with increasing population density, for example a mortality which becomes very high near a carrying capacity. Effects which become less pronounced at higher population sizes (perhaps the reduction in fecundity caused by the difficulty of mating) are sometimes called inverse density dependent. Density dependent effects are often a cause of nonlinearity in a model.

• Depot Kit

  An injectable medication (such as Lupron Depot) which maintains its effect for an extended period of time. One injection with a "depot" medication may last a month or more, and therefore daily injections are not needed

• DES (Diethylstilbestrol)

  Diethylstilbestrol DES is a synthetic estrogen. It is a medication that was prescribed to pregnant women during the late 1940's to the early 70's to prevent miscarriage. Its use was banned in 1971 in pregnant women because it was found to cause abnormalities and deformities of the reproductive organs in the children of women who took this drug during pregnancy.

  Many male and female fetuses exposed in utero to this drug developed numerous deformities including blockage of the vas deferens, uterine abnormalities, cervical deformities, miscarriages, dysplasias, and even cancer, and infertility.

  Research is also looking into effects on DES grandchildren.

  During an infertility evaluation, you may be asked if your mother took this drug while she was pregnant with you.

  DES, Diethylstilbestrol, synthetic estrogen, estrogen, pregnant women, women, miscarriages, abnormalities, deformities, reproductive organs, pregnancy, blockage of the vas deferens, vas deferens, uterine abnormalities, cervical deformities, dysplasias, even cancer, infertility Deterministic model

  A mathematical model in which the parameters and variables are not subject to random fluctuations, so that the system is at any time entirely defined by the initial conditions chosen. Contrast with a stochastic model.

• Dexamethasone suppression test

  This test is performed when adrenal disease is suspected; it can differentiate adrenal disease (altered response to ACTH) from pituitary disorders (altered production of ACTH). The secretion of ACTH from the pituitary gland is normally regulated by the level of cortisol in the plasma. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. As plasma cortisol levels increase, ACTH secretion is suppressed, as cortisol levels decrease and ACTH increases. Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid similar to cortisol, which suppresses ACTH secretion in normal people; giving dexamethasone should reduce ACTH levels resulting in decreased cortisol levels.

  How the test is performed

  There are basically 2 ways to give the test: the rapid method and the 6-day method. In the rapid method, 1 mg of dexamethasone is given at 11 P.M., and the blood is drawn at 8 A.M. for a cortisol measurement. If no decrease in the amount of cortisol is seen, the test is repeated with an 8-mg dose of dexamethasone. In the 6-day method, urine is collected at 24-hour intervals over 6 days for measurement of cortisol or 17-OCHS. On day 3, a low dose (0.5 mg) of dexamethasone is given by mouth every 6 hours for 24-hours. On day 5, the procedure is repeated with a high dose (2.0 mg) of dexamethasone.

  How the test will feel

  When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

  How to prepare for the test

  The health care provider may advise to discontinue drugs that may affect the test. Drugs that can affect test results include barbiturates, estrogens, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, spironolactone, and tetracyclines.

  Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation depends on child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust.

• DHEAS (Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate)

  Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a type of androgen that may be found in excessive amounts in women with poly cystic ovaries (PCO). The condition is called poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) can be also found in other conditions of excessive androgen production. Its level may be checked as part of an infertility evaluation. An androgen produced primarily by the adrenal gland but sometimes also by the ovary. The source of DHEA is excessive growth/hyperplasia or hormone producing tumor. A high level suggests too much adrenal androgen output.

  Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEAS, poly cystic ovaries, PCO, androgen, poly cystic ovarian syndrome, infertility evaluation, infertility, adrenal gland, adrenal, excessive growth, hyperplasia, hormone producing tumor, tumor, PCOS

• Diethylstilbestrol (DES)

  A medication that was prescribed to pregnant women during the late 1940's to the early 70's to prevent miscarriage. Its use was banned in 1971 in pregnant women because it was found to cause abnormalities and deformities of the reproductive organs in the children of women who took this drug during pregnancy. During an infertility evaluation, you may be asked if your mother took this drug while she was pregnant with you. A synthetic estrogen prescribed in the 1950s, 1960s, and early 1970s to women to prevent miscarriage. Many male and female fetuses exposed in uterus to this drug developed numerous deformities including blockage of the vas deferens, uterine abnormalities, cervical deformities, miscarriages, and unexplained infertility. DES was banned in 1971 by the FDA in the U.S. for pregnant women.

• DI - Donor insemination

  Artificial insemination with a donor's sperm.

• Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)

  A type of androgen that may be found in excessive amounts in women with PCOS, or other conditions of excessive androgen production. Its level may be checked as part of an infertility evaluation. An androgen produced primarily by the adrenal gland. A high level suggests too much adrenal androgen output.

• Dilatation and curettage (D&C)

  Sometimes referred to as dilation and curettage. It is a process of gradually dilating the cervix of the uterus to the point of being able to introduce an instrument (curette) to scrape the surface of uterine cavity (endometrium). A suction cannula is also used if the amount of tissue being removed is large. This procedure is often used to treat abnormal bleeding, different type of miscarriages, and uterine pathology such as polyps and small fibroids. It is usually done in the doctor's office, surgically, or in the hospital using sedation and sometimes general anesthesia. Complications include infection and uterine perforation. The latter involves an inadequate passage of one of the instruments through the wall of the uterus and inside the abdominal cavity. In the majority of instances, careful observation is enough, since this artificially made hole usually seals on its own. In questionable situations laparoscopy can be done to asses the possible damage. D&C is the most frequently performed gynecological operation.

  Dilation and curettage, dilation, curettage, D&C, dilating the cervix, uterine cavity, endometrium, cannula, curette, abnormal bleeding, bleeding, miscarriages, uterine pathology, pathology, fibroids, infection, uterine perforation, gynecological operation, operation

• Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

  Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) is a procedure in which the cervix is dilated and the fetus and placenta are removed. Dilation and Evacuation D&E name is used to describe two different procedures. The early one is similar to a D&C uses suction to empty the uterine cavity, and is performed on first trimester pregnancies. The D&E can also be used to describe a surgical removal of a fetus and placenta between 14-20 weeks of gestation.

  D&E, Dilation and Evacuation, Dilation, Evacuation, cervix, fetus, placenta, abortion, termination, termination of pregnancy, interruption, interruption of pregnancy, pregnancy

• Dioecious

  Having separate sexes, opposite of monoecious.

• DIPI - Direct Intra-peritoneal Insemination

  Injection of sperm into the peritoneal cavity. A form or artificial insemination that may be used with low sperm counts and motility.

• Direct life cycle

  A life cycle in which a parasite is transmitted directly from one host to the next without an intermediate host or vector of another species.

• Direct Oocyte-Sperm Transfer (DOST)

  Transvaginal retrieval of eggs from the stimulated ovary, just as in standard IVF. However, following retrieval, instead of inseminating the eggs with sperm and placing them into the incubator, the eggs are inseminated and transferred directly into the uterus nonsurgically two hours later. This allows the eggs to fertilize within the uterus, making it acceptable for women with damaged, nonfunctional or absent fallopian tubes, just as in IVF.

• Disease

  The debilitating effects on a host of infection by a parasite.

• Donor Egg

  Eggs donated by one woman to another.

• Doxycycline

  A tetracycline derivative; an antibiotic that inhibits many of the microorganisms infecting the reproductive tract. Often used for treating ureaplasma infections. Many physicians find routine treatment with this antibiotic more cost-effective than performing multiple cultures on both the husband and wife looking for infection.

• DPO - Days Post-Ovulation

  The number of days a woman is past ovulation. Counting begins the day after ovulation, so if ovulation is on Wednesday, Saturday would be 3 DPO.

• DP3DT

  Days Post 3-Day Transfer.

• DPR

  Days Post-Retrieval.

• DPT - Days Post-Transfer

  The number of days a woman is past embryo transfer. Counting begins the day after transfer, so if transfer is on Monday, Friday would be 4 DPT.

• Dx

  Dx - Diagnosis

• Dysfunction

  Abnormal function.

• Dysmenorrhea

  Painful menstruation.

• Dyspareunia

  Difficult or painful coitus.

• E
• E2

  Estradiol

• Endometrial biopsy - (EB, Ebx, EMB)

  Endometrial biopsy - (EB, Ebx, EMB) is a procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue from the inside of the uterus (called the endometrium). It is done in the office and takes only a few minutes. A small hollow tube is introduced through the cervix inside the uterus and the endometrium is gently scraped, while suction is applied to the catheter. Small pieces of endometrial tissue are collected by this process and sent for microscopic examination. An endometrial biopsy is done for many reasons. In case of investigation for infertility, it is performed to evaluate the endometrium for its readiness to accept the embryo. An egg, that is fertilized by a sperm in the fallopian tube travels, to the uterus in about 3 to 5 days and then is ready to implant in about another 3 to 4 days. Therefore, roughly one week after ovulation and successful fertilization, that embryo may implant. During this crucial time, the endometrium should be ready for implantation. The biopsy will check for specific changes in the cells and glands of the endometrium. A normal test is said to be "in-phase" with the menstrual day, if the biopsy done on a specific day of the cycle shows expected appearance. An abnormal test is said to be "out-of-phase" in relation to the date of the cycle. An abnormal test result usually signifies that there is a hormonal irregularity usually a "luteal phase defect," which means that the second part of the cycle called the luteal phase is abnormal and can be the cause of infertility. Women who have very short luteal phases (less than 11 days) will often have an abnormal biopsy result. An endometrial biopsy is also performed for abnormal uterine bleeding, to diagnose hormonal imbalances or an anatomic cause for bleeding, such as polyps, hyperplasia (abnormal benign growth of the endometrium) or cancer.

  Normal "in phase" biopsy done after presumed ovulation does not prove that oocyte release-ovulation has happened. It can only disprove ovulation or suggest that the egg probably was released. The Ebx is frequently misinterpreted.

  Endometrial biopsy, EB, Ebx, EMB, inside of the uterus, uterus, endometrium, cervix, endometrial tissue, microscopic examination, examination, investigation for infertility, embryo, egg, fertilized by a sperm, sperm, fallopian tube, tube, fertilization, glands of the endometrium, implantation, in-phase, out-of-phase, luteal phase defect, luteal phase, short luteal phase, abnormal uterine bleeding, uterine bleeding, hormonal imbalances, imbalances, polyps, hyperplasia, cancer, presumed ovulation, ovulation, oocyte release, oocyte, misinterpretation EBV - Epstein-Barr virus

  A herpes virus which causes glandular fever (as does CMV) and some cancers.

• Ectopic pregnancy

  A normal pregnancy results when the embryo implants inside the uterus. When implantation occurs outside the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy occurs. Such an abnormal pregnancy can be located in the tubes, the ovaries, the cervix, or inside the abdomen. In 1987, roughly 2 of every 100 women who were known to conceive were hospitalized for ectopic pregnancy. This incidence is slightly higher with in vitro fertilization. The most common symptoms are abnormal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. Women who have tubule damage (such as scarring from infection) are at an increased risk for an ectopic pregnancy. The incidence is also higher in women who have had children, especially those who have been pregnant three or more times

• EDD - Estimated Due Date.

  An approximate date for when a baby is due to be born. It is generally calculated based on LMP, when LMP is two weeks before ovulation. To figure the due date, take your LMP and add 9 months plus one week. To figure EDD based on ovulation, add 9 months and subtract one week. When using ARTs, one would consider the day of insemination to be ovulation, and the day of egg retrieval to be ovulation.

• Efficacy

  An index of the potency of a drug or disease treatment.

• Egg (ovum)

  The female reproductive cell.

• Egg donation

  The process that involves stimulation of a younger woman with fertility drugs, the retrieval of her eggs, fertilization of the eggs with the recipient's husband's sperm, and the transfer of the resultant embryos into the uterus of the recipient. Women who may need egg donation include the following:

  Women with no ovaries as a result of congenital absence or surgical removal; Women with early (premature) menopause; Older women, greater than 43 years of age; Women who fail to produce adequate number of eggs after stimulation with fertility drugs; Women with serious transmissible genetic traits or diseases; Women who are about to undergo surgery for ovarian cancer, in which case they can freeze the resultant embryos for use at a later time. Egg donors should be less than 37 years old. Most egg donation is done anonymously, however known donors are also acceptable in many instances.

• Egg Donor

  Oocyte donor, gamete donor, ovum donor, and reproductive cell donor is a woman contracted to donate eggs to an infertile couple for in vitro fertilization.

  Egg donation, oocyte donation, gamete donation, ovum donation, reproductive cell donation, egg donor, egg, oocyte donor, gamete donor, ovum donor, reproductive cell donor, oocyte, gamete, ovum, reproductive cell

  Egg Retrieval, Oocyte Retrieval, Gamete Retrieval, Ovum Retrieval, Reproductive Cell Retrieval

  Oocyte retrieval, gamete retrieval, ovum retrieval, and reproductive cell retrieval is the process when a long needle is introduced through the vagina and into the ovaries to aspirate the follicles containing the eggs. It is done under ultrasound guidance. The ovaries are visualized on the ultrasound screen, and the needle, which is attached to the ultrasound probe, is directed into the follicles, which are aspirated with gentle suction. The aspirated fluid is sent to the embryologist who examines it and identifies the eggs. The procedure is done under heavy sedation and is therefore practically painless. It takes about 20-40 minutes to complete depending on the number of follicles present and the patient is discharged 2-3 hours later. The patient is not allowed to drive because of possible drowsiness the day of the procedure. Complications are very rare and include bleeding from the vaginal site of the needle puncture or the ovaries, and infection. Bleeding almost always subsides on its own and infections are treated with antibiotics if needed.

  Egg Retrieval, Oocyte Retrieval, Gamete Retrieval, Ovum Retrieval, Reproductive Cell Retrieval, egg, oocyte, gamete, ovum, reproductive cell, needle, aspirate the follicles, aspirate, follicles, ultrasound guidance, ultrasound, ultrasound probe, prove, embryologist, heavy sedation, sedation, complications, drowsiness, needle puncture, infection, bleeding Ejaculate

  The semen and sperm released at orgasm, or the act of releasing semen at orgasm.

• Ejaculatory ducts

  The male ducts that contract the fluid released at orgasm.

• Elective Abortion

  Voluntary termination of a pregnancy for non-medical reasons.

• Electro ejaculation

  Controlled electrical stimulation to induce ejaculation in a man with damage to the nerves that control ejaculation.

• ELISA

  A technique using the antigen binding properties of antibodies to detect specific antigens or antibodies. Visualization is typically made possible by enzyme induced color formation.

• Embryo

  The developing baby from implantation to the second month of pregnancy. More scientifically, the fertilized egg that has begun the process of cell division.

• Embryo Toxic Factor (ETF)

  An immune response against a woman may have against her own fetus in a pregnancy that may result in the loss of the pregnancy. Treatment is high doses of progesterone until the 16th week of pregnancy.

• Embryo Toxicity Assay (ETA)

  Embryo Toxicity Assay (ETA) is accomplished by a combination of two procedures: the first involves maternal blood cell (lymphocyte) culture, which is aimed at stimulating the lymphocytes using components of the human embryo (trophoblast) cell line, and the second is an embryo culture. These procedures are used to test if the patient's lymphocytes secrete anything that is toxic to the embryo (test utilizes two-cell stage mouse embryos). Women, who have been sensitized in the course of their earlier pregnancies or in any other mode, could amass an immune response against their own fetus in the following pregnancy, and end up losing it in the implantation process or later in the first trimester.

  Embryo toxicity assay, ETA, maternal blood cell, lymphocyte, trophoblast, embryo, embryo culture, toxic to the embryo, toxic, embryo, immune response, pregnancy, miscarriage, pregnancy loss, abortion, spontaneous, infertility, immunology

• Embryo transfer (ET)

  Embryo transfer (ET) involves placing an egg fertilized outside the womb into a woman's uterus or fallopian tube. This often occurs 2 to 5 days following egg retrieval. A predetermined number of embryos are first placed inside a special catheter, which is then introduced inside the uterus through the cervix. The embryos are then gently injected and the catheter is removed. During this procedure, the woman is in a position similar to a pelvic examination for a pap smear. The patient will remain in that position for roughly an hour before being discharged. The number of embryos to be transferred depends mostly on the age of the woman and the quality of embryos. As a general rule, 2 to 4 embryos will be transferred in women less than 35 years of age to reduce the risk of high order (more than twins) multiple pregnancies. This number increases with age, and it is not unusual to transfer more embryos in women over 40, if available. The couple will make the informed decision regarding the number of embryos to be transferred after conferring with her physician. The future parents are advised about availability of a procedure designed to reduce high order multiple pregnancy called selective reduction or multiple pregnancy selection.

  Embryo transfer, embryo, ET, uterus, fallopian tube, tube, egg retrieval, egg, catheter, cervix, number of embryos, quality of embryos, age of the woman, twins, multiple pregnancies, informed decision, fertilized egg, fertilized oocyte, fertilized ovum, fertilized gamete Embryologist

  A person specialized in embryo development.

• Empty Sella Syndrome

  A condition that occurs when spinal fluid leaks into the bony chamber (fossa) housing the pituitary gland. The fluid pressure compresses the pituitary gland and may adversely affect its ability to secrete LH and FSH and may elevate prolactin levels.

• Endemic

  A term to describe levels of infection that do not exhibit wide fluctuations through time, in a defined place. For microparasites like measles, the term is used slightly differently to indicate an infection which can persist in a population in the long term without needing to be reintroduced from outside. Stable endemicity is where the incidence of infection or disease shows no secular trend for increase or decrease.

• Endemic fadeout

  Parasite extinction occurring because endemic levels are so low that it is possible for small stochastic fluctuations to remove all parasites. Contrast epidemic fadeout.

• ENDO - Endometriosis

  It is the inflammation of the endometrium. The presence and growth of endometrial tissue, known as implants, in locations outside the uterus, such as over the fallopian tubes, ovaries, the lining of the pelvis, bowel or other unusual areas. The disease is benign but usually progressive. In advanced stages, it causes severe scarring of the ovaries and /or tubes which can result in infertility. Even milder forms of the disease, where only few implants are present, can be associated with infertility. The incidence of the disease is 30% to 45% in women with infertility. The cause of endometriosis is not known with certainty, but several mechanisms are involved. More recently immunological causes have been implicated in the mechanism of infertility in patients with endometriosis. The classic symptoms of endometriosis are cyclic pelvic pain and infertility. Medical or surgical therapy is successful only for the relief of pain. Studies have sown that medical therapy does not improve fertility. Surgery for endometriosis is also not successful in treating infertility except in instances where there are mild adhesions partially blocking the tubes.

• Endocrine Gland

  An organ that produces hormones.

• Endocrine System

  System of glands including the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals and testicles or ovaries.

• Endometrioma

  A special type of ovarian cyst that is chocolate in color and contains endometrial cells that grows and bleeds during menstruation. It is also known as a chocolate cyst. A solitary, non-neoplastic mass containing endometrial tissue and blood.

• Endometrium

  The inside lining of the uterus where implantation of the embryo occurs. It sheds every month in response to estrogen and progesterone stimulation. If pregnancy occurs, the endometrium will not shed. The inner lining of the uterus which grows and sheds in response to estrogen and progesterone stimulation; the bed of tissue designed to nourish the implanted embryo.

• Endorphins

  Natural narcotics manufactured in the brain to reduce sensitivity to pain and stress. May contribute to stress-related fertility problems.

• Epidemic

  A rapid increase in the levels of an infection. Typical of the microparasitic infections (with long lasting immunity and short generation times) an epidemic is usually heralded by an exponential rise in the number of cases in time and a subsequent decline as susceptible numbers are exhausted. Epidemics may arise from the introduction of a novel pathogen (or strain) to a previously unexposed (naive) population or as a result of the regrowth of susceptible numbers some time after a previous epidemic due to the same infectious agent. Contrast endemic, pandemic.

• Epidemic fadeout

  Parasite extinction occurring because numbers are so low immediately following an epidemic that it is possible for small stochastic fluctuations to remove all parasites. Contrast endemic fadeout.

• Epididymis

  The tightly coiled, thin-walled tube where sperm maturation is completed. Sperm move from the testicles to the vas deferens through the epididymis. A coiled, tubular organ attached to and lying on the testicle. Within this organ the developing sperm complete their maturation and develop their powerful swimming capabilities. The matured sperm leave the epididymis through the vas deferens.

• Epididymitis

  An inflammation of the epididymis.

• Epiphytotic

  An epidemic in a plant host population.

• Epizootic

  An epidemic in an animal host population. While there may be scientific reasons for distinguishing an epidemic from an epizootic, the use of epizootic is not required on linguistic grounds.

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)

  A herpes virus which causes glandular fever (as does CMV) and some cancers.

• EPT

  Early Pregnancy Test.

• Estradiol (E2)

  The principal estrogen produced by the ovary. Responsible for formation of the female secondary sex characteristics such as large breasts; supports the growth of the follicle and the development of the uterine lining. At midcycle the peak estrogen level triggers the release of the LH spike from the pituitary gland. The LH spike is necessary for the release of the ovum from the follicle. Fat cells in both obese men and women can also manufacture estrogen from androgens and interfere with fertility. The blood test to monitor estradiol is E2 -- Rapid Assay. Women on injectable fertility drugs have routine E2 monitoring.

• Estrogens

  The female sex hormones. First recognized around 1915, estrogen is responsible for the development of the secondary feminine sex characteristics, which include breasts, rounded hips, and pubic hair. Together with progesterone, another female hormone made by the ovaries, estrogen regulates the changes that occur with each monthly period and prepares the uterus for pregnancy.

• Equilibrium

  A state in which a system is not changing. A population size might be at a static equilibrium at which nothing is happening (there are no births or deaths) or a dynamic equilibrium at which different processes are balanced (there are the same numbers of births and deaths). More generally, the state to which a system eventually evolves, for example sustained periodic oscillations, might be called an equilibrium.

• Escherichia coli (Adhesins)

  Thin, filamentous protein structures, including proteinaceous capsular antigens (fimbrial antigens), that mediate adhesion of e. Coli to surfaces and play a role in pathogenesis. They have a high affinity for various epithelial cells.

• Estimated Due Date (EDD)

  An approximate date for when a baby is due to be born. It is generally calculated based on LMP, when LMP is two weeks before ovulation. To figure the due date, take your LMP and add 9 months plus one week. To figure EDD based on ovulation, add 9 months and subtract one week. When using ARTs, one would consider the day of insemination to be ovulation, and the day of egg retrieval to be ovulation.

• Estradiol

  The principal estrogen produced by the ovary. This is the primary hormone monitored via blood test during stimulation with fertility drugs.

• Estrogen

  The major female hormone secreted by the ovaries. A normally menstruating woman ovulates once a month about 14 days after the start of the menstrual cycle. The developing follicle (a balloon-like space in the ovary that contains the egg) secretes estrogen as it grows. The level of this hormone peaks at the time of ovulation; it then drops for several days and peaks again about a week after ovulation. Estrogen is responsible for the normal grown and differentiation of the follicle and the egg. It also plays an important role in preparing the endometrial lining for implantation. Estrogen also changes the quality and texture of the cervical mucus, making it thinner and more elastic. This allows the normal passage of sperm through the cervix towards the uterus and the fallopian tube where the sperm meets the egg. Estrogen also causes the vagina to be moist and healthy in addition to its beneficial effects on bone and the cardiovascular system. For these reasons, estrogen is recommended to most women after the cessation of menses at menopause. Estrogen can be measured on the second or third day of the cycle by a simple blood test. Its level reflects the functional status of the ovaries. Ideally, a level of less than 50ug/ml is desirable prior to the initiation of ovulation induction or IVF

• ET - Embryo transfer

  Placing an egg fertilized outside the womb into a woman's uterus or fallopian tube. This often occurs 2 days following egg retrieval. A predetermined number of embryos are first placed inside a special catheter, which is then introduced inside the uterus through the cervix. The embryos are then gently injected and the catheter is removed. During this procedure, the woman is in a position similar to a pelvic examination for a pap smear. The patient will remain in that position for roughly an hour before being discharged. The number of embryos to be transferred depends mostly on the age of the woman and the quality of embryos. As a general rule, 4 embryos will be transferred in women less than 35 years of age to reduce the risk of high order (more than twins) multiple pregnancies. This number increases with age, and it is not unusual to transfer 8-10 embryos in women over 40. The couple make the informed decision regarding the number of embryos to be transferred after conferring with physician.

• ETF - Embryo Toxic Factor

  An immune response against a woman may have against her own fetus in a pregnancy that may result in the loss of the pregnancy. Treatment is high doses of progesterone until the 16th week of pregnancy.

• EW

  Egg white Cervical Mucus.

• EWCM

  Egg white Cervical Mucus.

• F
• Fallopian tubes

  They are ducts that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization normally takes place in these tubes if sperm is present to meet the egg. Ducts through which eggs travel to the uterus once released from the follicle. Sperm normally meet the egg in the fallopian tube, the site at which fertilization usually occurs. The fallopian tube is divided anatomically into a few regions: closest to the uterus and within the uterine wall is the "interstitium" (where interstitial pregnancies develop), next is the "isthmus" (immediately outside the uterine wall) then the "ampulla" (midsection of the tube) and then the "infundibular or fimbrial portion" (adjacent to the ovary at the end of the tube). These descriptions are helpful when reading Daiter's Dateline.

• Falloscopy

  It is the visual examination of the inside of the fallopian tube. A tiny flexible catheter is inserted through the cervical canal and uterine cavity into the fallopian tube. A small flexible fiber optic endoscope is threaded through the catheter into the fallopian tube. A camera at the end of the falloscope transfers images of the inside of the tube to a monitor so the surgeon can thoroughly visualize and examine the inside of the tube. If problems are found, surgical repairs can be made at the same time.

• FASIAR - Follicle Aspiration, Sperm Injection and Assisted Rupture.

  It is a procedure involving the use of ultrasound for guidance to remove eggs from their follicles. Sperm and eggs are mixed inside the syringe and then injected back into the patient. If the woman develops too many eggs, the physician can remove some and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.

• Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG)

  Blood glucose levels taken after not eating or drinking anything other than water overnight. A normal level is under 110, over 110 shows impaired glucose tolerance or insulin resistance, and over 126 is diabetic. Its ratio in comparison to fasting insulin can also indicate insulin resistance.

• Fasting Blood Insulin (FBI)

  Insulin levels taken after not eating or drinking anything other than water overnight. Insulin is a hormone released to break down sugar. Its ratio in comparison to fasting blood glucose can indicate insulin resistance.

• Fecundability

  The ability to become pregnant.

• Fecundity

  The capacity to produce offspring; the rate of offspring production.

• Female Kallman's Syndrome

  It is a condition characterized by infantile sexual development and an inability to smell. Since the pituitary cannot produce LH and FSH, the woman must take hormone supplements to achieve puberty, to maintain secondary sex characteristics, and to achieve fertility.

• Ferning

  It is a pattern characteristic of dried cervical mucus viewed on a slide. When the fern leaf pattern appears, the mucus has been thinned and prepared by estrogen for the passage of sperm. If it does not fern, the mucus will be hostile to the passage of the sperm.

• Fertile Mucus

  Mucus that allows sperm to thrive and makes its way into the cervical canal into the uterus and tubes. It resembles raw egg whites and is both stretchy and watery. Non-fertile mucus blocks sperm from entering the cervix.

• Fertility Microscope

  A small microscope women can purchase to view saliva or cervical mucus as a low-tech way of predicting ovulation.

• Fertility Specialist

  A physician specializing in the practice of fertility. The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology certifies a subspecialty for OB-GYNs who receive extra training in endocrinology (the study of hormones) and infertility. Those who acquire certification are Reproductive Endocrinologists (REs).

• Fertility Treatment

  Any method or procedure used to enhance fertility or increase the likelihood of pregnancy, such as ovulation induction treatment, varicocoele repair, and microsurgery to repair damaged fallopian tubes. The goal of fertility treatment is to help couples have a child.

• Fertilization

  It is the union of the male gamete (sperm) with the female gamete (egg). The combining of the genetic material carried by sperm and egg to create an embryo. Normally occurs inside the fallopian tube (in vivo) but may also occur in a petri dish (in vitro).

• Fertinex (FSH)

  It is the brand name FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) medication. Fertility medications in this class (Fertinex, Follistim®, and Gonal-F®) are injectables which stimulate the growth and development of the follicles.

• FET - Frozen Embryo Transfer

  It is a procedure where frozen embryos are thawed and then placed into the uterus.

• Fetus (foetus)

  It is a developing unborn offspring of an animal that gives birth to its young (as opposed to laying eggs). From approximately three months after conception the offspring take on a recognizable form (all parts in place, etc.). In human development, the period after the seventh or eighth week of pregnancy is the fetal period.

  An unborn or unhatched vertebrate especially after attaining the basic structural plan of its kind; specifically : a developing human from usually three months after conception to birth.

  The developing baby from the second month of pregnancy until birth.

  A term used to refer to a baby during the period of gestation between eight weeks and term.

• FHR

  Fetal Heart Rate.

• Fibroid

  It refers to a benign tumor located in the uterus. Although it is not cancerous, it may cause irregular bleeding, pain, and an enlarged uterus. Furthermore, it may cause difficulty in achieving a pregnancy because it can interfere with normal implantation of an embryo into the endometrium.

• Filterable virus

  They are any of the infectious agents that pass through a filter of diatomite or unglazed porcelain with the filtrate and remain virulent and that include the viruses as presently understood and various other groups (as the mycoplasmas and rickettsias) which were orig. considered viruses before their cellular nature was established.

  A disease caused by a virus.

• Fimbria

  It is the finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tube nearest the ovary that capture the egg and deliver it into the tube. When stimulated by the follicular fluid released during ovulation, the fingerlike ends grasp the ovary and coax the egg into the tube.

• Fimbrioplasty

  It is plastic or reconstructive surgery to repair the fimbria that may be damaged or causing a blockage within the fallopian tubes.

• Fluoroscope

  It is an imaging device that uses X-rays to view internal body structures on a screen.

• Foetus (fetus)

  Foetus is a developing unborn offspring of an animal that gives birth to its young (as opposed to laying eggs).

  From approximately three months after conception the offspring take on a recognizable form (all parts in place, etc.). In human development, the period after the seventh or eighth week of pregnancy is the foetal period.

  An unborn or unhatched vertebrate especially after attaining the basic structural plan of its kind; specifically : a developing human from usually three months after conception to birth.

  The developing baby from the second month of pregnancy until birth

• Follicle

  Follicle is small egg-containing sacks found in the female ovary. In fertile women, one follicle will become dominant and release a mature egg (ovulate) during every cycle. The other follicles will be reabsorbed into the body. In fertility treatments, medications may be used to stimulate the development of multiple follicles.

  A Fluid-filled sac in the ovary which contains an egg that is released at ovulation. Each month an egg develops inside the ovary in a fluid filled pocket called a follicle. This follicle grows to about one inch in size when it is ready to ovulate.

• Follicle Aspiration

  Follicle Aspiration is a procedure involving the use of ultrasound for guidance to remove eggs from their follicles. Sperm and eggs are mixed inside the syringe and then injected back into the patient. If the woman develops too many eggs, the physician can remove some and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.

• Follicle (LUF) syndrome

  Follicle syndrome is the failure of a follicle to release the egg even though a corpus luteum has formed.

• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

  Follicle Stimulating Hormone or FSH medication. Fertility medications in this class (Fertinex, Follistim®, and Gonal-F®) are injectables which stimulate the growth and development of the follicles.

  A pituitary hormone that stimulates spermatogenesis and follicular development. In the man FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testicles and supports sperm production. In the woman FSH stimulates the growth of the ovarian follicle. Elevated FSH levels are indicative of gonadal failure in both men and woman.

• Follicular Fluid

  Follicular Fluid is the fluid inside the follicle that cushions and nourishes the ovum. When released during ovulation, the fluid stimulates the fimbria to grasp the ovary and coax the egg into the fallopian tube.

• Follicular phase

  Follicular phase is the pre-ovulatory phase of a women's cycle during which the follicle grows and high estrogen levels cause the uterine lining to proliferate (thicken) in preparation for implantation.

  The pre-ovulatory portion of a woman's cycle during which a follicle grows and high levels of estrogen cause the lining of the uterus to proliferate. Normally takes between 12 and 14 days.

• Follistim® (FSH)

  Follistim® is the brand name FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) medication. Fertility medications in this class (Fertinex�, Follistim®, and Gonal-F®) are injectables which stimulate the growth and development of the follicles.

  Recombinant FSH injectable fertility medication used for superovulation.

• FP - Follicular Phase

  Follicular phase is the pre-ovulatory phase of a women's cycle during which the follicle grows and high estrogen levels cause the uterine lining to proliferate (thicken) in preparation for implantation.

  The pre-ovulatory portion of a woman's cycle during which a follicle grows and high levels of estrogen cause the lining of the uterus to proliferate. Normally takes between 12 and 14 days.

• Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

  Frozen Embryo Transfer is a procedure where frozen embryos are thawed and then placed into the uterus.

• G
• Galactorrhea

  Galactorrhea is a clear or milky discharge from the breasts associated with elevated prolactin.

• Gamete

  Gamete is a reproductive cell; the sperm in men, the egg in women.

• Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer (GIFT)

  Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer is a procedure where eggs are retrieved from the woman, placed together with sperm in a catheter, and transferred back into the woman's fallopian tubes to allow fertilization inside the woman's body.

  It is a technique that may be used in lieu of in vitro fertilization for women with patent (clear and open) tubes. After egg retrieval the eggs are mixed with sperm and then immediately injected through the fimbria into the woman's fallopian tubes for in vivo fertilization. Procedure is done through laparoscopy.

• Ganirelix acetate

  Ganirelix acetate is the generic name of Antagon, brand name GnRH antagonist. This new class of fertility medications (available as Antagon, ganirelix acetate and as cetrorelix acetate) block the effect of GnRH, resulting in a rapid suppression of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland

• Gardnerella

  Gardnerella is a bacteria that may cause a vaginal infection.

• Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GD, GDM)

  Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is a temporary impairment of the ability to process sugar during pregnancy.

• Gene

  Gene is the unit of heredity, composed of DNA; the building block of chromosomes.

• Genetic Counseling

  Genetic Counseling is the advice offered by experts in genetics on the detection, consequences, and risk of recurrence of chromosomal and genetic disorders.

• Germ Cell

  Germ Cell is in the male the testicular cell that divides to produce the immature sperm cells; in the woman the ovarian cell that divides to form the egg (ovum). The male germ cell remains intact throughout the man's reproductive life; the woman uses up her germ cells at the rate of about one thousand per menstrual cycle, although usually only one egg matures each cycle.

• Germ Cell Aplasia

  Germ Cell Aplasia (Sertoli Cell Only) is an inherited condition in which the testicles have no germ cells. Since men with this condition have normal Leydig cells, they will develop secondary sex characteristics. Germ Cell Aplasia may also be caused by large and/or prolonged exposure to toxins or radiation.

• Gestation

  Gestation is the period of fetal development in the womb (uterus) from implantation to birth.

• Gestation sac

  Gestation sac is the fluid-filled sac in which the fetus develops, visible by an ultrasound.

• Gestational Host

  Gestational Host is a woman who contracts to carry a pregnancy for someone else. The host is not the biological mother of the baby being carried.

• Genu recurvatum

  Genu recurvatum is the laxity of the ligaments resulting in bending back of the knees.

• Germinal Cell (Immature Sperm)

  Germinal Cell is a sperm that has not matured and gained the ability to swim. In the presence of illness or infection such sperm may appear in the semen in large numbers.

• GIFT (Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer)

  Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) is a procedure where eggs are retrieved from the woman, placed together with sperm in a catheter, and transferred back into the woman's fallopian tubes to allow fertilization inside the woman's body.

  Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) is a technique that may be used in lieu of in vitro fertilization for women with patent (clear and open) tubes. After egg retrieval the eggs are mixed with sperm and then immediately injected through the fimbria into the woman's fallopian tubes for in vivo fertilization. Procedure is done through laparoscopy.

• Gland

  Gland is a secretor organ or structure that produces or secretes essential body fluids or substances, such as hormones.

• Globulin

  Globulin is a simple globular protein which cannot be dissolved in pure water but which can be dissolved if a salt is added to the water. It can also be precipitated out of solution and into a solid with a solution of ammonium sulphate at 50% saturation. Examples of globulin proteins are immunoglobulin and cryoglobulin.

• Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)

  Glucose Tolerance Test is a screening test for insulin resistance, diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Usually blood is drawn at fasting, and then the patient drinks or eats a certain amount of glucose. Blood is drawn at one hour, two hours and three hours to check glucose levels. Some may have an additional blood draw at a half hour.

• GnRH (Gonadotropin releasing hormone)

  Gonadotropin releasing hormone is the hormone produced and released in a pulsatile manner by the hypothalamus. GnRH controls the pituitary gland's production and release of gonadotropins GnRH agonist - a medication that acts like gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Initially it causes a surge in the production of gonadotropins, but when given continuously, it suppresses pituitary and ovarian function. Examples include leuprolide or Lupron®, nafarelin or Synarel®.

  The hormone which controls the production and release of gonadotropins. Secreted by the hypothalamus every ninety minutes or so, this hormone enables the pituitary to secrete LH and FSH, which stimulate the gonads.

• GnRH antagonist

  GnRH antagonist is this new class of fertility medications (available as Antagon, ganirelix acetate and as cetrorelix acetate) which block the effect of GnRH, resulting in a rapid suppression of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland.

• Gonadotropin, human chorionic (HCG)

  Gonadotropin, human chorionic is a human hormone made by chorionic cells (in the foetal part of the placenta), hCG is directed at the gonads and stimulates them. HCG becomes detectable (by immunologic means) within days of fertilization and forms the foundation of the common pregnancy tests. The level of hCG in maternal serum also enters as one component in the double and the triple screens used during pregnancy to assign risks of Down syndrome.

• Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)

  Gonadotropin releasing hormone is the hormone produced and released in a pulsatile manner by the hypothalamus. GnRH controls the pituitary gland's production and release of gonadotropins GnRH agonist - a medication that acts like gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Initially it causes a surge in the production of gonadotropins, but when given continuously, it suppresses pituitary and ovarian function. Examples include leuprolide or Lupron®, nafarelin or Synarel®.

  The hormone which controls the production and release of gonadotropins. Secreted by the hypothalamus every ninety minutes or so, this hormone enables the pituitary to secrete LH and FSH, which stimulate the gonads.

• Gonadotropins

  Gonadotropins are the hormones produced by the pituitary gland that control reproductive function follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

• Gonads

  Gonads are organs that produce the sex cells and sex hormones; testicles in men and ovaries in women. The glands that make reproductive cells and "sex" hormones: the testicles, which make sperm and testosterone, and the ovaries, which make eggs (ova) and estrogen.

• Gonal-F® (FSH)

  Gonal-F® is brand name FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) medication. Fertility medications in this class (Fertinex�, Follistim®, and Gonal-F®) are injectables which stimulate the growth and development of the follicles.

• Gonorrhea

  Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Neisseria gonococcus that can lead to infertility.

• GP

  General Practitioner.

• Granuloma

  Granuloma is a ball of inflamed tissue, commonly formed after vasectomy due to sperm leaking from the vas deferens.

• GTT - Glucose Tolerance Test

  Glucose Tolerance Test is a screening test for insulin resistance, diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Usually blood is drawn at fasting, and then the patient drinks or eats a certain amount of glucose. Blood is drawn at one hour, two hours and three hours to check glucose levels. Some may have an additional blood draw at a half hour.

• Gynecologist

  Gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in the diseases and the routine physical care of the reproductive system of women.

• H
• Habitual Abortion

  Habitual Abortion is the same as repeated miscarriages.

• Hamster test

  Hamster test is a test of the ability of a man's sperm to penetrate a hamster egg stripped of its outer membrane, the zona pellucida. Also called the Sperm Penetration Assay.

• HAV - Hepatitis A, B and C virus (HAV/HBV/HCV)

  Hepatitis A, B and C virus are very different viruses that all cause the liver disease hepatitis. Hepatitis B and C are blood borne, while Hepatitis A is an enterovirus which is faeco-orally transmitted. Other known hepatitis viruses include Hepatitis D and Hepatitis E.

• HbA1c

  HbA1c means Glycosylated Hemoglobin and is also called Glycohemoglobin.

• HCG - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

  Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is this hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel�, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.

  Gonadotropin, human chorionic is a human hormone made by chorionic cells (in the foetal part of the placenta), hCG is directed at the gonads and stimulates them. HCG becomes detectable (by immunologic means) within days of fertilization and forms the foundation of the common pregnancy tests. The level of hCG in maternal serum also enters as one component in the double and the triple screens used during pregnancy to assign risks of Down syndrom

  The hormone produced in early pregnancy which keeps the corpus luteum producing progesterone. Also used via injection (Profasi) to trigger ovulation after some fertility treatments, and used in men to stimulate testosterone production.

• HCG - Quantitative beta-HCG assay

  Quantitative beta-HCG assay is a pregnancy test which measures the level of HCG present in the blood. This test can be used to detect an early pregnancy.

• HCP

  HCP means Health Care Practitioner.

• Helminths

  Helminths are worms, in particular the five groups of parasitic worms: Monogeneans (flukes), Digeneans (flukes, schistosomes), Cestodes (tapeworms), Nematodes (roundworms) and Acanthocephalans (spiny-headed worms).

• Hemizona assay

  Hemizona assay is a laboratory test of the ability of sperm to penetrate into a human egg; first the egg is split in half, then one half is tested against the husband's sperm and the other half against sperm from a fertile man.

• Hemorrhage

  Hemorrhage is profuse, life-threatening bleeding.

• HEPA

  HEPA means Hamster Egg Penetration Assay.

• Heparin

  Heparin is a blood thinner given as an injection to prevent blood clots from forming.

• Heparin Therapy

  Heparin Therapy is the use of Heparin to thin blood in women with recurrent pregnancy loss or presence of an autoimmune problem, such as antiphospholipid antibodies.

• Hermatospermia

  Hermatospermia is a condition in which blood appears in the semen and may usually be seen by the naked eye.

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

  Herpes simplex virus can be types one and two, HSV-I and HSV-II, and they are among the causes of cold sores and genital ulcers.

• HI test

  HI test or haemagglutination inhibition test, is a serological test used to detect antibodies specific to a particular family of viruses which possess the ability to agglutinate red blood cells e.g. measles, rubella and influenza.

• HIB

  HIB means haemophilus influenzae B.

• Hirsutism

  Hirsutism is the excessive hair growth. This condition may occur in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or as a result of treatment with Danazol® hMG (human Menopausal Gonadotropin). These injectable medications consist of LH and FSH hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce and development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex.)

• HIV

  HIV is the human immunodeficiency virus that causes the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

  Pergonal® - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG)

  Pergonal® is the brand name for hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Injectable medications consisting of luteinizing (LH) and follicle stimulating (FSH) hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce the development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex.)

  A medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Pergonal is similar to Humegon and Repronex. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.

  hMG - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin

  Human Menopausal Gonadotropin are injectable medications consisting of LH and FSH hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex.)

  Gonadotropin, human chorionic

  A human hormone made by chorionic cells (in the foetal part of the placenta), hCG is directed at the gonads and stimulates them. HCG becomes detectable (by immunologic means) within days of fertilization and forms the foundation of the common pregnancy tests. The level of hCG in maternal serum also enters as one component in the double and the triple screens used during pregnancy to assign risks of Down syndrome.

  hMG - Repronex

  hMG is a medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Similar to Humegon and Pergonal. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.

• Holoendemic

  Holoendemic is an infection whose prevalence is fairly uniform throughout a region, country or continent.

• Home Pregnancy Test (HPT)

  Home Pregnancy Test is a test a woman can use at home to test urine for the presence of hCG.

• Hormone

  Hormone is a substance, produced by an endocrine gland, that travels through the bloodstream to a specific organ, where it exerts its effect.

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

  Hormone Replacement Therapy refers to estrogen and progesterone replacement in menopausal women.

• Host Uterus

  Host Uterus is also called a "surrogate gestational mother." A couple's embryo is transferred to another woman who carries the pregnancy to term and returns the baby to the genetic parents immediately after birth.

• Hostile mucus

  Hostile mucus is the cervical mucus that impedes the natural progress of sperm through the cervical canal.

• HPT - Home Pregnancy Test

  Home Pregnancy Test is a test a woman can use at home to test urine for the presence of hCG.

• HRT

  Hormone Replacement Therapy

• HSC - Hysteroscopy

  Hysteroscopy is a procedure which involves the introduction of a telescope-like instrument through the cervix into the uterine cavity. It allows the physician to directly view the inner lining of the uterus. It is very helpful in the diagnosis of polyps and fibroids and other uterine abnormalities such as a uterine septum.

• HPV

  HPV is the human papillomavirus, causing genital warts and genital cancers.

• HSG - Hysterosalpingogram

  Hysterosalpingogram involves the injection of a radio-opaque dye through the cervix and into the uterus and fallopian tubes. A series of x-rays are taken and the contour and patency of the uterus and tubes are assessed.

• HSV - Herpes simplex virus

  Herpes simplex virus - types one and two, HSV-I and HSV-II, are among the causes of cold sores and genital ulcers.

• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)

  Human Chorionic Gonadotropin - this hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel�, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle

  Gonadotropin, human chorionic - a human hormone made by chorionic cells (in the foetal part of the placenta), hCG is directed at the gonads and stimulates them. HCG becomes detectable (by immunologic means) within days of fertilization and forms the foundation of the common pregnancy tests. The level of hCG in maternal serum also enters as one component in the double and the triple screens used during pregnancy to assign risks of Down syndrome.

  The hormone produced in early pregnancy which keeps the corpus luteum producing progesterone. Also used via injection (Profasi) to trigger ovulation after some fertility treatments, and used in men to stimulate testosterone production.

  hMG - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin

  Human Menopausal Gonadotropin - these injectable medications consist of LH and FSH hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce and development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex.)

  Gonadotropin, human chorionic

  A human hormone made by chorionic cells (in the foetal part of the placenta), hCG is directed at the gonads and stimulates them. HCG becomes detectable (by immunologic means) within days of fertilization and forms the foundation of the common pregnancy tests. The level of hCG in maternal serum also enters as one component in the double and the triple screens used during pregnancy to assign risks of Down syndrome.

  HSG - Hysterosalpingogram

  Hysterosalpingogram - it involves the injection of a radio-opaque dye through the cervix and into the uterus and fallopian tubes. A series of x-rays are taken and the contour and patency of the uterus and tubes are assessed.

• Humegon - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG)

  Humegon - brand name hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Injectable medications consisting of LH and FSH hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce and development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex.)

• Hydrotubation

  Hydrotubation - injection of fluid, often into the fallopian tubes to determine if they are patent.

• Hyperandrogenism

  Hyperandrogenism - excessive production of androgens in women, frequently a cause of hirsutism and also associated with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD).

• Hyperprolactinemia

  Hyperprolactinemia - excessive prolactin in the blood. This condition may interfere with the normal functioning of the menstrual cycle and result in anovulation.

• Hyperstimulation

  Hyperstimulation - excessive stimulation of the ovaries that can cause them to become enlarged.

• Hypogonadism

  Hypogonadism - refers to a spectrum of disorders that result in reduced levels of male or female sex hormones. Hypogonadism is typically caused by a deficient production of hypothalamic or pituitary hormones.

• Hypothalamus

  Hypothalamus - a gland in the brain that releases GnRH (see GnRH), which in turn stimulates the production of LH and FSH by the pituitary gland.

• Hypothyroidism

  Hypothyroidism - under activity of the thyroid gland, which results in low levels of thyroid hormone in the blood. Inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone can lead to hyperprolactinemia.

• Hysterectomy

  Hysterectomy - surgical removal of the uterus.

• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

  Hysterosalpingogram - it involves the injection of a radio-opaque dye through the cervix and into the uterus and fallopian tubes. A series of x-rays are taken and the contour and patency of the uterus and tubes are assessed.

• Hysteroscopy

  Hysteroscopy - this is a procedure which involves the introduction of a telescope-like instrument through the cervix into the uterine cavity. It allows the physician to directly view the inner lining of the uterus. It is very helpful in the diagnosis of polyps and fibroids and other uterine abnormalities such as a uterine septum.

• I
• IBT - Immunobead Binding Test

  Immunobead Binding Test - to detect antisperm antibodies.

• ICI - Intracervical Insemination

  Intracervical Insemination - artificial insemination where the sperm is deposited into the cervical canal.

• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)

  Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection - a micromanipulation technique sometimes performed during IVF or donor IVF. In the laboratory, the health care provider manipulates the male sperm, then places it in a needle and injects it directly into the female egg. This procedure may be useful in cases where the male has low sperm counts or decreased sperm motility.

• Idiopathic (Unexplained) Infertility

  Idiopathic (Unexplained) Infertility - when no cause for infertility can be found after substantial testing.

• IF - Infertility

  Infertility - inability of a couple to achieve a pregnancy or to carry a pregnancy to term after one year of unprotected intercourse in women 35 years of age and younger, and after six months of unprotected intercourse in women 36 years of age and older.

  The inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse in women under 35, or after six months in women over 35, or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. Also included are diagnosed problems such as anovulation, tubal blockage, low sperm count, etc.

• IGTT

  IGTT - Insulin and Glucose Tolerance Test.

• IM (Intramuscular)

  Intramuscular - injections given into a muscle. Commonly recommended IM injection sites include the thigh and buttocks.

• Immature Oocyte Retrieval (IOR)

  Immature Oocyte Retrieval - procedure in which immature eggs are aspirated from the ovaries and treated in the laboratory with fertility drugs to bring them too maturity. At maturity they are mixed with sperm and any resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus.

• Immature Sperm (Germinal Cell)

  Immature Sperm - a sperm that has not matured and gained the ability to swim. In the presence of illness or infection such sperm may appear in the semen in large numbers.

• Immune system

  Immune system - the body's defense against any injury or invasion by a foreign substance or organism.

• Immunity

  1) A state in which a host is not susceptible to infection or disease, or 2) the mechanisms by which this is achieved. Immunity is achieved by an individual through one of three routes: natural or innate immunity genetically inherited or acquired through maternal antibody, acquired immunity conferred after contact with a disease, and artificial immunity after a successful vaccination. Also termed specific immunity, resistance or specific resistance.

  Specific immunity is divided into cellular immunity acting via the direct involvement of T cells and humoral immunity involving antibodies and B cells.

• Immunobead Binding Test (IBT)

  Immunobead Binding Test - to detect antisperm antibodies.

• Immunogenicity

  Immunogenicity - the ability of a vaccine to stimulate the immune system, as measured by the proportion of individuals who produce specific antibody or T cells, or the amount of antibody produced, say. Not the same as efficacy.

• Immunoglobulins

  Immunoglobulins a class of proteins endowed with antibody activity.

• Immunopathology

  Immunopathology - damage to the host caused by its own immune response against a pathogen.

• Immunosuppression

  Immunosuppression - a reduction in the capacity of the immune system. Caused by infection (eg HIV), drug treatment, pregnancy and malnutrition among others. Immunosuppressed individuals are commonly referred to as immunocompromised.

• Immunosupressive Drug

  Immunosupressive Drug - drug that interferes with the normal immune response.

• Immunotherapy

  Immunotherapy - medical treatment for an immune system disorder that involves transfusing donor white blood cells into a woman who has recurrent miscarriages.

• Implantation (Embryo)

  Implantation - the embedding of the embryo into tissue so it can establish contact with the mother's blood supply for nourishment. Implantation usually occurs in the lining of the uterus 5-10 days after ovulation; however, in an ectopic pregnancy it may occur elsewhere in the body.

• Implantation Failure

  Implantation Failure - inability of the fertilized egg to properly implant in the uterinelining.

• Implantation Spotting

  Implantation Spotting - bleeding associated with an embryo implanting into the endometrium around 5-10 days after ovulation. It is not uncommon, but it is not the norm.

• Impotence - inability of a man to achieve an erection or ejaculation

  The inability of the man to achieve or maintain an erection and to ejaculate due to physical or emotional problems, or a combination thereof. This is not the same thing as being sterile.

• In utero

  In utero - while in the uterus during early development.

• In vitro fertilization (IVF)

  In vitro fertilization - (literally, "in glass") fertilization outside of the body in a laboratory.

• Incidence

  Incidence - the rate at which new cases of infection arise in a population. Classically measured as an attack rate.

• INCIID

  INCIID - International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination.

• Incompetent cervix

  Incompetent cervix - cervix with the inability to remain closed throughout an entire pregnancy; a frequent cause of premature birth. A weakened cervix which opens prematurely during pregnancy and can cause the loss of the fetus. A cervical cerclage is a procedure in which a stitch or two is put around the cervix to prevent its opening until removed when the pregnancy is at term.

• Incomplete Abortion

  Incomplete Abortion - a miscarriage where some tissue has bassed but some remains in the uterus.

• Incubation period

  Incubation period - the time that elapses between infection and the appearance of symptoms of a disease. Not the same as the latent period.

• Infection

  Infection - the presence of a parasite within a host where it may or may not cause disease. The state or condition in which the body or a part of it is invaded by pathogenic agent (microorganism or virus) that under favorable conditions multiply or produces injurious effects.

• Inflammation

  Inflammation - swelling, redness, heat and pain caused by injury such as infection.

• Inhibin

  Inhibin - a male feedback hormone made in the testicles to regulate FSH production by the pituitary gland.

• Inhibin-B

  Inhibin B is secreted by the granulosa cells while estradiol is secreted by several other cell types in the ovary. Women with low levels of the hormone were found to have more impaired ovulation in the course of the IVF cycle, lower pregnancy rates, higher cancellation rates and miscarriage rates. Often tested in conjunction with antiovarian antibodies to determine ovarian reserve.

• Inhibin-F (Folliculostatin)

  Inhibin-F - female feedback hormone made in the ovary to regulate FSH production by the pituitary gland.

• Injectables/Injectable Fertility Medications

  Injectables/Injectable Fertility Medications - medications given by injection. On INCIID and other infertility forums, the word injectables is commonly used to refer to ovulation induction medications such as hMG (brands Pergonal, Humegon and Repronex), urofollitropins (brands Fertinex and Metrodin), and recombinant FSH follitropins alpha and beta (brands Follistim and Gonal-F).

• Insulin

  Insulin - the hormone used by the body to control blood sugar (glucose). Insulin resistance (over-production of insulin in relation to glucose) can lead to weight gain and ovulation difficulties.

• Insulin Resistant (IR)

  Insulin Resistant - occurs when the body produces too much insulin in relation to glucose. One is considered insulin resistant with a fasting blood sugar of over 110, or a fasting glucose to insulin ratio of less than 4.5:1.

• Intra-peritoneal Insemination (IPI)

  Intra-peritoneal Insemination - injection of sperm into the peritoneal cavity. A form or artificial insemination that may be used with low sperm counts and motility.

• Intracervical Insemination (ICI)

  Intracervical Insemination - artificial insemination where the sperm is deposited into the cervical canal.

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

  Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection - a micromanipulation technique sometimes performed during IVF or donor IVF. In the laboratory, the health care provider manipulates the male sperm, then places it in a needle and injects it directly into the female egg. This procedure may be useful in cases where the male has low sperm counts or decreased sperm motility

• Intramuscular (IM)

  Intramuscular - an IM medication is given by needle into the muscle. This is as opposed to a medication that is given by a needle, for example, into the skin (intradermal) or just below the skin (subcutaneous) or into a vein (intravenous).

• Intratubal Insemination (ITI)

  Intratubal Insemination - artificial insemination where washed sperm is deposited into the fallopian tubes.

• Intrauterine Growth Retardation (IUGR)

  Intrauterine Growth Retardation - a reduction in fetal growth for reasons such as infection, inadequate placenta, or exposure to teratogens.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

  Intrauterine Insemination - artificial insemination of sperm, which have been washed free of seminal fluid, into the uterine cavity.

  Intrauterine Insemination - relatively "low-tech" ART which deposits washed sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing cervical mucus and depositing the sperm more closely to the fallopian tubes, where fertilization occurs. Used to bypass hostile cervical mucus and to overcome sperm count and motility problems.

• Intravaginal Culture (IVC)

  Intravaginal Culture - procedure related to in vitro fertilization where eggs and sperm are combined in a capsule and then inserted into a woman's vagina to incubate for 48 hours. The goal being for fertilization to happen within the woman's body. After 24 hours, any embryos are transferred into the uterus.

• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg)

  Intravenous Immunoglobulin - intravenous transfer of immunoglobulin (antibodies), used for some immune problems.

• IOR - Immature Oocyte Retrieval

  Immature Oocyte Retrieval - procedure in which immature eggs are aspirated from the ovaries and treated in the laboratory with fertility drugs to bring them too maturity. At maturity they are mixed with sperm and any resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus.

• IPI - Intra-peritoneal Insemination

  Intra-peritoneal Insemination - injection of sperm into the peritoneal cavity. A form or artificial insemination that may be used with low sperm counts and motility.

• ITI - Intratubal Insemination

  Intratubal Insemination - artificial insemination where washed sperm is deposited into the fallopian tubes.

• IUFD

  IUFD - Intra-uterine Fetal Demise

• IUGR - Intrauterine Growth Retardation

  Intrauterine Growth Retardation - a reduction in fetal growth for reasons such as infection, inadequate placenta, or exposure to teratogens.

• IUI - Intrauterine Insemination

  Intrauterine Insemination - artificial insemination of sperm, which have been washed free of seminal fluid, into the uterine cavity.

  Intrauterine Insemination - relatively "low-tech" ART which deposits washed sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing cervical mucus and depositing the sperm more closely to the fallopian tubes, where fertilization occurs. Used to bypass hostile cervical mucus and to overcome sperm count and motility problems.

• IVC - Intravaginal Culture

  Intravaginal Culture - procedure related to in vitro fertilization where eggs and sperm are combined in a capsule and then inserted into a woman's vagina to incubate for 48 hours. The goal being for fertilization to happen within the woman's body. After 24 hours, any embryos are transferred into the uterus.

• IVF - In vitro fertilization

  In vitro fertilization - (literally, "in glass") fertilization outside of the body in a laboratory.

• IVIg - Intravenous Immunoglobulin

  Intravenous Immunoglobulin - intravenous transfer of immunoglobulin (antibodies), used for some immune problems.

• J
• K
• Kallman's Syndrome

  Kallman's Syndrome - a congenital hypothalamus dysfunction that has multiple symptoms including the failure to complete puberty.

• Karyotype

  Karyotype - an arrangement of all the chromosomes of a cell. A normal human cell has 46 chromosomes. Abnormalities of certain chromosomes, such as an extra chromosome, can be detected by doing a karyotype. This test is done in couples, who suffer from recurrent miscarriages to look for a specific chromosomal abnormality called a "translocation," which can result in the loss of important genetic material and thus cause miscarriages

• Karyotyping

  Karyotyping - a chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome or spina bifida.

  A chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for abnormalities. Testing a fetus may show if there is a chromosomal reason for the pregnancy loss, which causes about 50% of miscarriages. Testing the parents can help determine if there is an underlying chromosomal problem that increases the chances of repeated losses, which occurs in about 3% of couples with recurrent pregnancy loss.

• Karyotyping the cells

  Karyotyping the cells - by karyotyping the cells and determining the proteins present, it is possible to determine the sex of the fetus and whether it is suffering from certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome or spina bifida. test performed between the 16th and 18th week of pregnancy in order to determine the presence of birth defects in the developing fetus. It involves the insertion of a small needle into the amniotic fluid that surrounds the developing baby. The fluid is then screened for genetic conditions such as Down syndrome.

• Klinefelter's syndrome

  Klinefelter's syndrome - a chromosome abnormality that prevents normal male sexual development and causes irreversible infertility due to the presence of an extra X chromosome.

  A genetic abnormality characterized by having one Y (male) and two X (female) chromosomes or a mosaic (a combination of 46XY and 47XX). Klinefelters often causes a fertility problem, though some men will produce sperm. ART and donor insemination are possible. The condition can be passed on.

• L
• LAD - Leukocyte Antibody Detection Assay

  Leukocyte Antibody Detection Assay - indicates a woman's physiologic response to pregnancy. Women who test for high levels of leukocyte antibodies have a history of carrying pregnancies longer than women who exhibit low levels. Women who have low levels of leukocyte antibodies generally had pregnancies that ended by week 12, or their immune systems did not respond to the stimulus of pregnancy by creating blocking antibodies. Only women with low levels of LAD are candidates for immunization with their husbands' white blood cells (leukocytes), so it is recommended that this assay be done prior to initiating an immunization protocol.

• LAP - Laparoscopy

  Laparoscopy - examination of the pelvic organs through use of a small telescope called a laparascope.

• Laparoscope

  Laparoscope is a small telescope that can be inserted through a small incision in the abdominal wall for viewing the internal organs; the instrument is used to perform a laparoscopy. It can be used to diagnose and also treat a number of fertility problems, including endometriosis, abdominal adhesions, polycystic ovaries uterine tumors, extrauterine pregnancy, (pregnancy outside of the uterus), chronic pelvic pain, tubo-ovarian abscess, and others. The technology has improved over more than 100 years and the therapeutic possibilities are improving with it. Most of the laparoscopic procedures are done on an outpatient basis in hospitals or properly equipped surgical centers. Also used in egg retrieval for in vitro fertilization. Examination of the pelvic region by using a laparoscope is called a laparoscopy.

  Laparoscope, telescope, internal organs, laparoscopy, fertility problems, endometriosis, abdominal adhesions, adhesions, polycystic ovaries, uterine tumors, extrauterine pregnancy, pregnancy, pelvic pain, pain, tubo-ovarian abscess, abscess, outpatients basis, surgical centers

• Laparoscopy (LAP)

  Laparoscopy - examination of the pelvic organs through use a small telescope called a laparascope.

• Laparotomy

  Laparotomy - major abdominal surgery where reproductive organ abnormalities can be corrected and fertility restored, such as tubal repairs and the removal of adhesions.

• Leukocyte Antibody Detection Assay (LAD)

  Leukocyte Antibody Detection Assay - indicates a woman's physiologic response to pregnancy. Women who test for high levels of leukocyte antibodies have a history of carrying pregnancies longer than women who exhibit low levels. Women who have low levels of leukocyte antibodies generally had pregnancies that ended by week 12, or their immune systems did not respond to the stimulus of pregnancy by creating blocking antibodies. Only women with low levels of LAD are candidates for immunization with their husbands' white blood cells (leukocytes), so it is recommended that this assay be done prior to initiating an immunization protocol.

• Leukocyte Immunization Therapy (LIT)

  Leukocyte Immunization Therapy - injecting a woman with her husband's or a donor's white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells.

• Leukocytosis

  Leukocytosis - increase in the number of Leukocytes (White Blood Corpusles) generally caused by infection and usually transient.

• Leydig Cell

  Leydig Cell - the testicular cell that produces the male hormone testosterone. The Leydig cell is stimulated by LH from the pituitary gland.

• LH - Luteinizing Hormone

  Luteinizing Hormone - a pituitary hormone that stimulates the gonads. In the man LH is necessary for spermatogenesis (Sertoli cell function) and for the production of testosterone (Leydig cell function). In the woman LH is necessary for the production of estrogen. When estrogen reaches a critical peak, the pituitary releases a surge of LH (the LH spike), which releases the egg from the follicle.

• LH Surge - Luteinizing Hormone Surge

  Luteinizing Hormone Surge - the spiking release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature egg from the follicle. Ovulation test kits detect the sudden increase of LH, signaling that ovulation is about to occur (usually within 24-36 hours).

• LIT - Leukocyte Immunization Therapy

  Leukocyte Immunization Therapy - injecting a woman with her husband's or a donor's white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells.

• LMP

  LMP - Last Menstrual Period (start date).

• Low Responder

  Low Responder - a woman who does not produce many follicle with injectable fertility medications.

• LPD - Luteal Phase Defect

  Luteal Phase Defect (or Deficiency) - condition that occurs when the uterine lining does not develop adequately because of inadequate progesterone stimulation; or because of the inability of the uterine lining to respond to progesterone stimulation. LPD may prevent embryonic implantation or cause an early miscarriage.

• LSP

  LSP - Low Sperm Count.

• LUF (LUFS) - Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome

  Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome - a condition in which the follicle develops and changes into the corpus luteum without releasing the egg. This sometimes goes hand-in-hand with PCO. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Motrin, and Aleve, near ovulation may also contribute to LUFS.

• Lupron

  Lupron - an injectable medication used to down-regulate the pituitary gland and prevent the release of substances such as Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). Without LH or FSH, the ovary will not produce follicles that will in turn decrease the production of Estrogen and Progesterone.

• Lupus Anticoagulant

  Lupus Anticoagulant - an antibody causing elevation in partial thromboplastin time (the time needed for plasma to form a clot after the addition of calcium and a phospholipid reagent; used to evaluate the clotting system), associated with venous and arterial thrombosis (clotting within an artery or vein).

• Luteal Phase

  Luteal Phase - post-ovulatory phase of a woman's cycle. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, which cause the uterine lining to thicken to support the implantation and growth of the embryo.

• Luteal Phase Defect (LPD)

  Luteal Phase Defect (or Deficiency) - condition that occurs when the uterine lining does not develop adequately because of inadequate progesterone stimulation; or because of the inability of the uterine lining to respond to progesterone stimulation. LPD may prevent embryonic implantation or cause an early miscarriage.

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

  Luteinizing Hormone - a pituitary hormone that stimulates the gonads. In the man LH is necessary for spermatogenesis (Sertoli cell function) and for the production of testosterone (Leydig cell function). In the woman LH is necessary for the production of estrogen. When estrogen reaches a critical peak, the pituitary releases a surge of LH (the LH spike), which releases the egg from the follicle.

• Luteinizing Hormone Surge (LH Surge)

  Luteinizing Hormone Surge - the spiking release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature egg from the follicle. Ovulation test kits detect the sudden increase of LH, signaling that ovulation is about to occur (usually within 24-36 hours).

• Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome (LUFS)

  Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome - a condition in which the follicle develops and changes into the corpus luteum without releasing the egg. This sometimes goes hand-in-hand with PCO. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Motrin, and Aleve, near ovulation may also contribute to LUFS.

• -lyse (-lyze)

  -lyse according to international Scientific Vocabulary (probably irregular from latin) -lysis means to produce or undergo lytic disintegration or dissolution

  1. dissolution, decomposition, disintegration

  2. hydrolysis, proteolysis, electrolyze, thermolysis, plasmolyze

  3. to cause or produce disintegration of a compound, substance, or cell.

  4. to undergo lysis

  dissolution, decomposition, disintegration, hydrolysis, proteolysis, electrolyze, thermolysis, plasmolyze, adhesions, adhesiolysis, infertility, PID, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

• Laparoscopy

  Laparoscopy - the procedure involves the introduction of a thin telescope-like instrument through the belly button into the pelvis for direct visualization of the pelvic organs. At the same time, dye can be injected through the cervix and its flow can be traced into and through the fallopian tubes under direct vision. The procedure is conducted under anesthesia, but the patient does not have to stay overnight in the hospital. The patient might have mild abdominal discomfort for 1 or 2 days after the procedure, but can usually resume normal activities even as soon as the next day. The risks with laparoscopy are very small and include the following: infection, bleeding, damage to nearby organs, such as the bowel, and reaction to anesthesia. Very rarely, surgery by opening the abdomen is needed to take care of a complication. Indications for laparoscopy are many and include the following: diagnostic, to check for suspected problems such as infertility, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, scarring, ovarian tumors and uterine anomalies such as fibroids, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, lysis (cutting) of adhesions (scarring), removal of fibroids, and removal of ovarian cysts or tumors, GIFT and other miscellaneous indications.

  Surgery, laparoscope, pelvis, outpatient, fallopian tubes, ovarian tumors, uterine abnormalities, abdominal discomfort

• Laparotomy

  Laparotomy - a surgical opening of the abdomen

• Leiomyoma (fibroid)

  Leiomyoma - refers to a benign tumor located in the uterus. Although it is not cancerous, it may cause irregular bleeding, pain, and an enlarged uterus. Furthermore, it may cause difficulty in achieving a pregnancy because it can interfere with normal implantation of an embryo into the endometrium. A benign tumor of the uterine muscle and connective tissue.

• Leydig cells

  Leydig cells - the cells in the testicles that make testosterone.

• LH - Luteinizing hormone

  Luteinizing hormone - a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Along with FSH, it is one of the two most important hormones that regulate ovarian function. The role of LH is to trigger ovulation and help prepare the endometrial lining for implantation. The level of this hormone starts to rise roughly 24 hours prior to expected ovulation. The level of this hormone can be checked by a home urine ovulation prediction kit (such as OvuQuick, OvuKit or First Response). When the test color matches the control, this signifies the presence of elevated levels of LH in the blood. The individual then can plan intercourse within 24 hours of that positive test. LH is a hormone that is also found in the fertility medications Pergonal®, Humegon, and Repronex. These drugs contain LH and FSH in equal amounts. When given in the beginning of a menstrual cycle, (usually on day 2 to 5) they stimulate follicular development. The level of LH is also elevated (in relation to FSH) in some women with irregular cycles or with the condition known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

• LH kit

  LH kit - a kit used to detect a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) which takes place 24 to 36 hours prior to ovulation. It is used to help time intercourse during some fertility treatments.

• LH surge

  LH surge - the sudden release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes the follicle to release a mature egg (ovulate).

• LUF - Follicle syndrome

  Follicle syndrome - the failure of a follicle to release the egg even though a corpus luteum has formed.

• Lupron

  Lupron - known medically as a GnRH-agonist. Lupron is a commonly used medication in IVF and in the treatment of severe endometriosis or large uterine fibroids. Lupron can be taken either by daily subcutaneous (under the skin) injections or monthly intramuscular depot injections. Lupron works by suppressing the function of the pituitary gland and ovaries. Simply stated, it will make the ovaries "go to sleep" and stop functioning. This stops the secretion of the ovarian hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Preventing the release of these hormones is important in IVF because we want to control the function of the ovaries and we do not want any interference from the pituitary gland. As far as endometriosis and uterine fibroids are concerned, both of these diseases require estrogen for growth. Since estrogen is secreted mainly by the ovaries, suppressing ovarian function lowers blood estrogen levels and therefore benefits both of these conditions

• Luteal phase

  Luteal phase - post-ovulatory phase of a woman's cycle; the corpus luteum produces progesterone, which in turn causes the uterine lining to secrete substances to support the implantation and growth of the early embryo.

• Luteal phase defect (LPH)

  Luteal phase defect - inadequate function of the corpus luteum which results in insufficient levels of progesterone. This may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus or may lead to early pregnancy loss.

• Luteinizing hormone (LH)

  Luteinizing hormone - a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Along with FSH, it is one of the two most important hormones that regulate ovarian function. The role of LH is to trigger ovulation and help prepare the endometrial lining for implantation. The level of this hormone starts to rise roughly 24 hours prior to expected ovulation. The level of this hormone can be checked by a home urine ovulation prediction kit (such as OvuQuick, OvuKit or First Response). When the test color matches the control, this signifies the presence of elevated levels of LH in the blood. The individual then can plan intercourse within 24 hours of that positive test. LH is a hormone that is also found in the fertility medications Pergonal®, Humegon, and Repronex. These drugs contain LH and FSH in equal amounts. When given in the beginning of a menstrual cycle, (usually on day 2 to 5) they stimulate follicular development. The level of LH is also elevated (in relation to FSH) in some women with irregular cycles or with the condition known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

• Lymphocyte

  Lymphocyte - cell present in the blood and lymphatic tissue. Less than 1% is present in the circulating blood. These cells travel from the blood and lymph nodes and back into circulation. Lymphocytes are derived from the stem cells from which all blood cells arise.

• M
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

  Magnetic Resonance Imaging - a procedure using a magnet linked to a computer to create pictures of areas inside the body.

• Maturation Arrest

  Maturation Arrest - a testicular condition in which at one stage of sperm production all sperm development halts throughout all testicular tubules. May result in oligospermia or azozoospermia.

• MC - Miscarriage

  Miscarriage - spontaneous loss of an embryo or fetus from the womb.

• Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine (MMR)

  Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine - a vaccine recommended for women who have a low antibody titre to Rubella since Rubella (German Measles) can be very damaging to a fetus.

• Meiosis

  Meiosis - the cell division, peculiar to reproductive cells, which allows genetic material to divide in half. Each new cell will contain twenty-three chromosomes. The spermatids (immature sperm) and ova (eggs) each contain twenty-three chromo-somes, so when they combine (fertilize), the baby will have a normal complement of forty-six.

• Menarche

  Menarche - the time when a woman has her first menstrual period.

• Menopause

  Menopause - the time when a woman stops having menstrual periods.

• Menorrhagia

  Menorrhagia - heavy or prolonged menstrual flow.

• Menstruation

  Menstruation is a discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in nonpregnant breeding-age human and primate females at approximately four-week intervals. It is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the nonpregnant early state following endometrial changes accompanying the preceding ovulation.

  The monthly discharge from the uterus happens in nonpregnant women from puberty to menopause.

  It is under hormonal control and normally recurs, usually at four-week intervals, in the absence of pregnancy. It is the culmination of the menstrual cycle.

  Menstruation, nonpregnant, endometrial changes, ovulation, puberty, menopause, hormonal control, pregnancy, pregnant, endometrium, secretory endometrium, proliforative endometrium, menstrual cycle, menses ovary, ovarian function

• Menstrual cycle

  Menstrual cycle is the time between menstrual periods. A typical menstrual cycle is about 28 days, however this can be longer or shorter. The length of the menstrual cycle is determined by hormones produced by the ovary. Besides production of proper hormones in correct sequence the ovary is also expected to mature and release the egg/oocyte/ovum approximately half way through the 28-day cycle. Menstruation can happen even if the woman does not ovulate, as long as she produces particular hormones in the proper sequence and in acceptable levels. If the female does ovulate she always menstruates than after, unless she is pregnant. Level of the hormones can be tested to investigate the ovarian function, but normal levels do not prove release of an egg. Unfortunately it is often misunderstood. Consequently ovulation kits inform the patient about presence or absence of hormone, but do not prove an egg release.

  Menstrual cycle, menstrual periods, hormones, ovary, oocyte, egg, ovum,

• MESA - Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration

  Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration - microsurgery to remove sperm from the epididymis for use in in vitro fertilization, often with ICSI.

• Methotrexate

  Methotrexate - a toxic anticancer drug that is an analogue of folic acid and an antimetabolite. Used as an antineoplastic agent (to attack abnormal tissue growth). Sometimes used to treat ectopic and molar pregnancies.

• Metrodin (Pure FSH)

  Metrodin - an injectable form of Follicle Stimulating Hormone used to stimulate ovulation.

• Metrorrhagia

  Metrorrhagia - menstrual spotting during the middle of the cycle.

• MF

  MF - Male Factor.

• Micro Injection Fallopian Transfer (MIFT)

  Micro Injection Fallopian Transfer - a technique similar to GIFT and FASIAR that may be used in lieu of in vitro fertilization for women with patent (clear and open) tubes. After egg retrieval the eggs are mixed with sperm and then immediately injected through into the woman's fallopian tubes for in vivo fertilization. Rather than using laparoscopy, this method uses need aspiration of follicles and injection into the fallopian tubes.

• Microsurgery

  Microsurgery - reconstructive surgery performed under magnification using delicate instruments and precise techniques.

• Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA)

  Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration - microsurgery to remove sperm from the epididymis for use in in vitro fertilization, often with ICSI.

• MIFT - Micro Injection Fallopian Transfer

  Micro Injection Fallopian Transfer - a technique similar to GIFT and FASIAR that may be used in lieu of in vitro fertilization for women with patent (clear and open) tubes. After egg retrieval the eggs are mixed with sperm and then immediately injected through into the woman's fallopian tubes for in vivo fertilization. Rather than using laparoscopy, this method uses need aspiration of follicles and injection into the follopian tubes.

• Miscarriage (MC)

  Miscarriage - spontaneous loss of an embryo or fetus from the womb.

• Missed Abortion/Missed Miscarriage

  Missed Abortion/Missed Miscarriage - the fetus dies in the uterus but there is no bleeding or cramping. A D&C will be needed to remove the fetal remains and prevent complications.

• Mitosis

  Mitosis - the division of a cell into two identical cells in which all forty-six human chromosomes are duplicated; the first division of the germ cell.

• Mittleschmerz

  Mittleschmerz - the discomfort felt on one or both sides of the lower abdomen at the time of ovulation.

• MMR - Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine

  Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine - a vaccine recommended for women who have a low antibody titre to Rubella since Rubella (German Measles) can be very damaging to a fetus.

• Molar Pregnancy (Trophoblastic Disease)

  Molar Pregnancy - the fertilization of an egg without a nucleus. A baby (usually anomalous) may or may not be present, and the placenta develops into a nonmalignant tumor called a hydatidiform mole. The layer of cells that line the gestational sac and normally give rise to the chorionic villi convert into a mass of clear, tapioca-like vesicles instead of into a healthy placenta. The fertilized egg then deteriorates. Probably caused by a chromosomal abnormality in the fertilized egg. A continuous or intermittent brownish discharge is the prime symptom. Treated by a D&C and sometimes methotrexate.

• Morphology

  Morphology - the study of form, such as assessing the shape of sperm during semen analysis.

• Mosaicism

  Mosaicism - having more than one blood line. For example, instead of having all 46XX cells, a mosaic may have a combination of 46XX and 45X cells. See Klinefelter's and Turner's Syndrome.

• Motility

  Motility - motion, such as the forward swimming motion of healthy sperm. The measurement of motion and forward progression of sperm in a semen analysis.

• MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

  Magnetic Resonance Imaging - a procedure using a magnet linked to a computer to create pictures of areas inside the body.

• Mucus

  Mucus - secretion from a gland that can be watery, gel-like, stretchy, sticky or dry. Fertile mucus resembles raw egg whites (watery and stretchy).

• Mutagen

  Mutagen - substance that alters the genetic structure of the sperm or egg before conception.

• Mycoplasma

  Mycoplasma - an infectious agent that falls structurally between a virus and a bacterium. Thought to be related to pregnancy loss and perhaps infertility as well.

• Myoma (fibroid)

  Myoma - refers to a benign tumor located in the uterus. Although it is not cancerous, it may cause irregular bleeding, pain, and an enlarged uterus. Furthermore, it may cause difficulty in achieving a pregnancy because it can interfere with normal implantation of an embryo into the endometrium. A benign tumor of the uterine muscle and connective tissue.

• Myomectomy

  Myomectomy - surgical removal of a uterine fibroid tumor.

• N
• Natural Killer Cells (NK, CD56+)

  Natural Killer Cells - large granular lymphocytes that bond to cells and lyse (causing dissolution) them by releasing cytotoxins. NK cells are known to be effective against cells infected with viruses and some types of tumor cells. When activated, NK cells function to fight, kill and destroy their targets and their excessive numbers in blood is correlated with pregnancy loss and reduced success in IVF cycle outcome. Proliferation of NK cells is produced by gamma interferon, interleukin-2, antibodies, retinoic acid, and prostoglandin-E. It is thought that NK cells may produce TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor)

• Necrospermia

  Necrospermia - condition in which sperm are produced but are found dead in the semen and are unable to fertilize eggs.

• NEST - Nonsurgical Embryonic Selective Thinning

  Nonsurgical Embryonic Selective Thinning - form of assisted hatching using a chemical to thin the outer membrane of the zona pellucida rather than scraping.

• Nitrifying bacteria

  Nitrifying bacteria - bacteria of a family (Nitrobacteraceae) comprising gram-negative bacteria commonly found in the soil and obtaining energy through the process of nitrification.

• NK - Natural Killer Cells (NK, CD56+)

  Natural Killer Cells - large granular lymphocytes that bond to cells and lyse (causing dissolution) them by releasing cytotoxins. NK cells are known to be effective against cells infected with viruses and some types of tumor cells. When activated, NK cells function to fight, kill and destroy their targets and their excessive numbers in blood is correlated with pregnancy loss and reduced success in IVF cycle outcome. Proliferation of NK cells is produced by gamma interferon, interleukin-2, antibodies, retinoic acid, and prostoglandin-E. It is thought that NK cells may produce TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor)

• Non-obstructive Azoospermia

  Non-obstructive Azoospermia - severely impaired or non-existent sperm production. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles.

• Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization (NORIF)

  Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - no ovulation induction hormones are used for this process (unlike SCORIF). The egg is removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The egg is mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized egg is then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.

• Non-surgical Embryonic Selective Thinning (NEST)

  Nonsurgical Embryonic Selective Thinning - form of assisted hatching using a chemical to thin the outer membrane of the zona pellucida rather than scraping.

• Non-surgical Sperm Aspiration (NSA)

  Non-surgical Sperm Aspiration - the procedure is performed under sedation. A tiny needle is used to extract sperm directly from the testis in those who have blocked ducts or cannot ejaculate. Used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization and ICSI.

• NORIF - Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization

  Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - no ovulation induction hormones are used for this process (unlike SCORIF). The egg is removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The egg is mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized egg is then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.

• Novarel

  Novarel - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, regnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.

• O
• OB

  OB - Obstetrician.

• ObGYN - Obstetrician-gynecologist

  Obstetrician-gynecologist - a physician who specializes in the treatment of female disorders and pregnancy. A doctor who specializes in the diseases and the routine physical care of the reproductive system of women, including treating women through pregnancy and childbirth.

• Obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGYN, OB/GYN)

  Obstetrician-gynecologist - a physician who specializes in the treatment of female disorders and pregnancy. A doctor who specializes in the diseases and the routine physical care of the reproductive system of women, including treating women through pregnancy and childbirth.

• Obstructive Azoospermia

  Obstructive Azoospermia - the result of obstruction in either the upper or lower male reproductive tract (epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles or ejaculatory ducts). Sperm production may be normal (which may be verified through testicular biopsy), but the obstruction is preventing the sperm from being ejaculated. Some causes of obstructive azoospermia are vasectomy, congenital absence of vas deferens, scarring from past infections, and hernia operations.

  Non-obstructive Azoospermia - severely impaired or non-existent sperm production. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles.

• OC

  Oral Contraceptives

• OD - Ovulatory Dysfunction

  Ovulatory Dysfunction - a problem existing in the ovary where either something is abnormal in the process of developing the follicle or the egg is not released from the follicle.

• OHSS - Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

  Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome - enlargement of many ovarian follicles due to fertility drugs, causing gross enlargement of the ovaries. It is sometimes accompanied by accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and lungs and abnormal blood tests. It occurs less than 1% of the time in its severe form and requires hospitalization.

  Studies recently have shown that by using specific protocols, severe forms of this condition can be prevented..

• Oligomenorrhea

  Oligomenorrhea - infrequent and irregular menstrual cycles

• Oligospermia

  Oligospermia - having few sperm.

• Oligo-ovulation

  Oligo-ovulation - infrequent ovulation, usually less than six per year.

• Oligomenorrhea

  Oligomenorrhea - a low sperm count.

• Oocyte

  Oocyte (Egg) - the female reproductive cell.

• OPK - Ovulation Predictor Kit

  Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place.

• OPT - Ovulation Predictor Kit

  Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place.

• OTC

  OTC - Over The Counter

• OV - Ovulation

  Ovulation - release of an egg from the ovary. The release of the egg (ovum) from the ovarian follicle.

• Ovarian cyst

  Ovarian cyst is a fluid-containing enlargement of the ovary. It is a fluid-filled sac inside the ovary. An ovarian cyst may be found in conjunction with ovulation disorders, tumors of the ovary, and endometriosis.

• Ovarian Drilling

  Ovarian Drilling - during a laparoscopy, an electrosurgery needle is used to burn 10-12 small holes into each ovary. This procedure may help reduce androgen levels and restore cycles in women with polycystic ovaries.

• Ovarian Failure

  Ovarian Failure is the failure of the ovary to respond to FSH stimulation from the pituitary because of damage to or malformation of the ovary. Diagnosed by elevated FSH in the blood.

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

  Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is the enlargement of many ovarian follicles due to fertility drugs, causing gross enlargement of the ovaries. It is sometimes accompanied by accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and lungs and abnormal blood tests. It occurs less than 1% of the time in its severe form and requires hospitalization. Studies recently have shown that by using specific protocols, severe forms of this condition can be prevented.

• Ovarian wedge resection

  Ovarian wedge resection is the surgical removal of a portion of a polycystic ovary to produce ovulation. The surgical removal of a pie-shaped wedge of a polycystic ovary in order to help ovulation.

• Ovary

  Ovary - the female gonad; produces eggs and female hormones.

• Ovulation (OV)

  Ovulation - release of an egg from the ovary. The release of the egg (ovum) from the ovarian follicle.

• Ovulation Induction

  Ovulation Induction - medical treatment performed to initiate ovulation.

• Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK/OPT)

  Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place.

• Ovulatory Dysfunction (OD)

  Ovulatory Dysfunction - a problem existing in the ovary where either something is abnormal in the process of developing the follicle or the egg is not released from the follicle.

• Ovulatory Failure (Anovulation)

  Ovulatory Failure - failure or absence of ovulation.

• Ovum

  Ovum - the sex cell that contains the woman's genetic information, the egg. The reproductive cell from the ovary, the female gamete, the sex cell that contains the woman's genetic information.

• P
• P4 - Progesterone

  Progesterone - a naturally occurring hormone, also administered as a medication in injectable, oral and intravaginal formulations. Its role is to prepare the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg. You may at times have bloodwork done to determine the level of progesterone in your body.

  The hormone produced by the corpus luteum during the second half of a woman's cycle. It thickens the lining of the uterus to prepare it to accept implantation of a fertilized egg. It is released in pulses, so the amount in the bloodstream is not constant.

• P4 (Progesterone) Withdrawal

  Progesterone Withdrawal a diagnostic procedure used to analyze menstrual irregularity and amenorrhea; uterine "bleeding" that occurs within two weeks after taking progesterone; a procedure used to demonstrate the presence or absence of estrogen and to demonstrate the ability of the uterus and reproductive tract to "bleed." Prior to ovulation induction therapy, progesterone withdrawal may be used to induce a menstrual period.

• PAI-1

  PAI-1 - Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1.

• Panbypopituitarism

  Panbypopituitarism - complete pituitary gland failure.

• Pap smear

  Pap smear - removal of cells from the surface of the cervix to study microscopically.

• Parasite

  Parasite - an organism living in, with, or on another organism in parasitism. An organism which obtains food and shelter from another organism.

• Parlodel® (Bromocriptine)

  Parlodel - An oral medication used to reduce prolactin levels and reduce the size of a pituitary tumor when present. This medication often causes dizziness and upset stomach and must be started with a small dose which is gradually increased as needed. This medication is equally effective when the tablet is placed into the vagina.

• Partial Zona Dissection (PZD)

  Partial Zona Dissection - a predecessor to ICSI in which the zona pellucida, or shell, surrounding a woman's egg is opened, using either chemical dissolution or a sharp instrument to file through the shell, in order to allow easier access for sperm. Can result in too many sperm entering the egg.

• Patent

  Patent - open; for example, fallopian tubes should be patent after a sterilization reversal operation. The condition of being open, as with tubes that form part of the reproductive organs. An HSG, for example, is done to see if the fallopian tubes are patent.

• Paternal Leukocyte Immunization (PLI)

  Paternal Leukocyte Immunization - injecting a woman with her husband's (or male partner's) white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells.

• PCAO

  PCAO - Polycystic Appearing Ovaries.

  PCO - Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS, PCOD, or "Stein-Leventhal Syndrome")

  Polycystic ovarian syndrome - a condition characterized by multiple ovarian cysts, increased androgen production, and anovulation.

  A condition found in women who don't ovulate, characterized by excessive production of androgens (male sex hormones) and the presence of cysts in the ovaries. Though PCO can be without symptoms, some include excessive weight gain, acne and excessive hair growth.

• PCT - Post-coital test

  Post-coital test - a test to check the quality of the cervical mucus and the sperm in it. It is performed up to 12 hours after intercourse. It is similar to a Pap smear examination and involves no pain. The patient presents to the office within 12 hours after intercourse around the time of ovulation. A small sample of the cervical mucus is then taken and examined. We look for the amount and elasticity of the mucus. We also look at it under the microscope to evaluate the number and quality of sperm present in the sample, as well as the general cellularity of the mucus. A good test will show ample amount of mucus containing many moving sperm. An abnormal test may show normal mucus, but the sperm present in it will have an abnormal pattern of movement (moving in the same place instead of going forward). An abnormal test can also occur because of low levels of estrogen hormone, which is crucial in the formation of the cervical mucus. Treatment of abnormal cervical mucus can include intrauterine insemination, which bypasses the cervix. Another treatment of abnormal mucus is administration of estrogen hormone or stopping clomiphene therapy and switching to other fertility medications (such as Pergonal) that do not have this adverse effect on cervical mucus.

• Pelvic cavity

  Pelvic cavity - the area surrounded by the pelvic bone that contains the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries in women, and the prostate gland and seminal vesicles in men.

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

  Pelvic inflammatory disease - inflammation of any of the female pelvic organs, usually due to infection from a sexually transmitted disease.

  An infection of the pelvic organs that causes severe illness, high fever, and extreme pain. PID may lead to tubal blockage and pelvic adhesions.

• Penetrak

  Penetrak - a test of how fast sperm can travel up through cow mucus.

• Penis

  Penis - the male organ of sexual intercourse.

• Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA)

  Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration - a small needle is passed directly into the head of the epididymis and fluid is aspirated. Any sperm found are used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization with ICSI.

  Pergonal® - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG)

  Pergonal® - a brand name hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Injectable medications consisting of luteinizing (LH) and follicle stimulating (FSH) hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce the development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon�, Pergonal®, and Repronex�.)

  A medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Similar to Humegon and Repronex. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.

• Perinatologist

  Perinatologist - a doctor specializing in treating the fetus/baby and mother during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, particularly when the mother and/or baby are at a high risk for complications.

  PESA - Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration.

  Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) - a small needle is passed directly into the head of the epididymis and fluid is aspirated. Any sperm found are used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization with ICSI.

• PGD

  PGD - Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis

• PI - Primary Infertility

  Primary Infertility - struggling with infertility without ever having conceived. Popular usage has been extended to include those who have conceived but not had a live birth.

• PID - Pelvic inflammatory disease

  Pelvic inflammatory disease - inflammation of any of the female pelvic organs, usually due to infection from a sexually transmitted disease. An infection of the pelvic organs that causes severe illness, high fever, and extreme pain. PID may lead to tubal blockage and pelvic adhesions.

• PIO

  Progesterone in Oil.

• Pituitary gland

  Pituitary gland - a small gland present at the base of the brain. It receives instructions from another gland in the brain known as the hypothalamus. The pituitary secretes many important hormones, such as FSH, LH, TSH, and prolactin. FSH and LH control the ovaries, TSH controls the thyroid gland, and prolactin controls milk production.

  The master gland; the gland that is stimulated by the hypothalamus and controls all hormonal functions. Located at the base of the brain just below the hypothalamus, this gland controls many major hormonal factories throughout the body including the gonads, the adrenal glands, and the thyroid gland.

• Placenta

  Placenta - the embryonic tissue that implants in uterine wall and provides a mechanism for exchanging the baby's carbon dioxide and waste products for the mother's nutrients and oxygen. The baby is connected to the placenta by the umbilical cord.

• PLI - Paternal Leukocyte Immunization

  Paternal Leukocyte Immunization - injecting a woman with her husband's (or male partner's) white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells.

  PMS - Pre-menstrual Syndrome

  Pre-menstrual Syndrome - emotional and physical disturbances that occur after ovulation and usually end with menstruation.

• PNM

  Perinatal Mortality.

• POC - Products of Conception

  Products of Conception - tissues resulting from a pregnancy, such as the embryo/fetus and placenta. The term is often found on pathology reports where miscarriages are analyzed.

  PESA - Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration.

  Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) - a small needle is passed directly into the head of the epididymis and fluid is aspirated. Any sperm found are used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization with ICSI.

• POF - Premature Ovarian Failure

  Premature Ovarian Failure - cessation of menstruation due to depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. It is one of the most common causes for infertility requiring egg donation. It can run in families and be associated with other disease processes such as thyroid disease or lupus.

  The cessation of menses associated with high levels of gonadotropins and low levels of estrogen before age 40. The ovary may intermittantly produce mature follicles.

• Polar Body

  Polar Body - the discarded genetic material resulting from female germ cell division.

• Polyp

  Polyp - a growth or tumor, usually benign, on an internal surface such as the uterine wall.

• Polyspermy

  Polyspermy - more than one sperm entering and fertilizing an egg.

• Post-coital test (PCT)

  Post-coital test - a test to check the quality of the cervical mucus and the sperm in it. It is performed up to 12 hours after intercourse. It is similar to a pap smear examination and involves no pain. The patient presents to the office within 12 hours after intercourse around the time of ovulation. A small sample of the cervical mucus is then taken and examined. We look for the amount and elasticity of the mucus. We also look at it under the microscope to evaluate the number and quality of sperm present in the sample, as well as the general cellularity of the mucus. A good test will show ample amount of mucus containing many moving sperm. An abnormal test may show normal mucus, but the sperm present in it will have an abnormal pattern of movement (moving in the same place instead of going forward). An abnormal test can also occur because of low levels of estrogen hormone, which is crucial in the formation of the cervical mucus. Treatment of abnormal cervical mucus can include intrauterine insemination, which bypasses the cervix. Another treatment of abnormal mucus is administration of estrogen hormone or stopping clomiphene therapy and switching to other fertility medications (such as Pergonal) that do not have this adverse effect on cervical mucus

• Posttesticular System

  Posttesticular System - the ducts that store and deliver the sperm to the opening of the penis; also includes the glands that produce seminal fluids.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - a psychological disorder that develops in some individuals after a major traumatic experience such as war, rape, domestic violence, or accident. There are some articles written about PTSD as a complication of infertility or as a result of pregnancy loss. Some symptoms include avoidance, guilt, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and excessive irritability.

• Pre-embryo

  Pre-embryo - a fertilized egg in the early stage of development prior to cell division.

• Preclinical Pregnancy

  Preclinical Pregnancy - an early loss that ends before the next period is due. There are usually no pregnancy symptoms, but a blood test can reveal small amounts of the pregnancy hormone HCG. Also called Chemical Pregnancy.

• Pregnyl

  Pregnyl - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.

• Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)

  Premature Ovarian Failure - cessation of menstruation due to depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. It is one of the most common causes for infertility requiring egg donation. It can run in families and be associated with other disease processes such as thyroid disease or lupus.

  The cessation of menses associated with high levels of gonadotropins and low levels of estrogen before age 40. The ovary may intermittantly produce mature follicles.

• Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

  Premature Rupture of Membranes - spontaneous rupture of fetal membranes at least one hour before the onset of labor. Characterized by a trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina.

• Prenatal

  Prenatal - the period between conception and birth. Same as antenatal.

• Pretesticular System

  Pretesticular System - the male hormonal system responsible for stimulating sperm production and the development of male secondary sex characteristics.

• Prevalence models

  Prevalence models are compartmental models dividing the host population into, for example, susceptible, latent, infectious and immune individuals.

• Primary Infertility (PI)

  Primary Infertility - struggling with infertility without ever having conceived. Popular usage has been extended to include those who have conceived but not had a live birth.

• Products of Conception (POC)

  Products of Conception - tissues resulting from a pregnancy, such as the embryo/fetus and placenta. The term is often found on pathology reports where miscarriages are analyzed.

• Profasi®

  Profasi® - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.

• Progestin (Provera)

  Progestin - a synthetic progesterone.

• Prolactin

  Prolactin - a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Its major role is to control milk production; however it can interfere with normal ovulation if present in high amounts. Prolactin levels are therefore checked in every woman during the evaluation process for infertility. Certain women have elevated prolactin levels due to a tumor in the pituitary gland or the brain. These tumors are often called prolactinomas. They are usually easily treated by a medication called bromocriptine (Parlodel®). In rare instances, surgery may be required.

• PROM - Premature Rupture of Membranes

  Premature Rupture of Membranes - spontaneous rupture of fetal membranes at least one hour before the onset of labor. Characterized by a trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina.

• Prospective study

  A study in which people are initially enrolled and then followed up at subsequent times.

• Prostaglandins

  Prostaglandins - hormone-like substances found in men and women. It is hypothesized that prostaglandins secreted by active, young endometrial implants may interfere with the reproductive organs by causing muscular contractions or spasms. Also, prostaglandins not "washed" from sperm can cause severe cramping during IUI procedures.

• Prostate gland

  Prostate gland - the male gland encircling the urethra that produces one third of the fluid in the ejaculate, including a chemical that liquefies the coagulated semen twenty minutes to one hour after entering the vagina.

• Prostaglandins

  Prostaglandins - a group of hormone-like chemicals that have various effects on reproductive organs; so named because they were first discovered in the prostate gland.

• Protozoan

  Protozoan - a unicellular eukaryote.

• Provera (Progestin)

  Provera - a synthetic progesterone.

• PTSD - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

  Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - a psychological disorder that develops in some individuals after a major traumatic experience such as war, rape, domestic violence, or accident. There are some articles written about PTSD as a complication of infertility or as a result of pregnancy loss. Some symptoms include avoidance, guilt, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and excessive irritability.

• Pure FSH (Metrodin)

  Pure FSH - an injectable form of Follicle Stimulating Hormone used to stimulate ovulation.

• Pyospermia

  Pyospermia - the presence of white cells in the semen indicates possible infection and/or inflammation.

• PZD - Partial Zona Dissection

  Partial Zona Dissection - a predecessor to ICSI in which the zona pellucida, or shell, surrounding a woman's egg is opened, using either chemical dissolution or a sharp instrument to file through the shell, in order to allow easier access for sperm. Can result in too many sperm entering the egg.

• Q
• Qualitative hCG Test

  Qualitative hCG Test - a pregnancy test that gives a yes or no answer. Home pregnancy tests are qualitative.

• Quantitative beta-HCG assay

  Quantitative beta-HCG assay - a pregnancy test which measures the level of HCG present in the blood. This test can be used to detect an early pregnancy.

• Quantitative hCG Test

  Quantitative hCG Test - a pregnancy test in which the units of hCG are measured.

• Quiescence

  A period during which an infection is present but not active within a host: for example the period between an acute attack of chickenpox (varicella) and a subsequent recrudescence of shingles (zoster); not the same as latency.

• R
• R-FSH - Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone (R-hFSH)

  Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.

• R-hFSH - Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone (R-FSH)

  Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.

• Radiation

  Radiation - a general term for any form of radiant (emitting beams of light) energy emission. Ionizing radiation has the ability to penetrate cells and deposit energy and can cause radiation injury to the cells.

• Rate

  The number of events happening divided by the length of time over which they happen. A rate of change is the amount of change happening in a interval divided by the length of the interval; for small intervals the rate of change might be given by a simple rule (a differential equation).

• Ratio

  Ratio - (1) Basic reproductive ratio, Ro, a dimensionless parameter which encapsulates the biological details of different transmission mechanisms. For microparasites, Ro, is defined as the average number of secondary cases of infection to which one primary case gives rise throughout its infectious period if introduced into a defined population consisting solely of susceptible individuals. For macroparasites, Ro, is the average number of female offspring (or just offspring in the case of hermaphroditic species) produced throughout the lifetime of a mature female parasite, which themselves achieve reproductive maturity in the absence of density-dependent constraints on the parasite establishment, survival or reproduction.

  Also known as the basic reproduction rate, number.

  (2) Effective reproductive ratio, R, The number of secondary cases (microparasites) or female offspring (macroparasites) produced in a host population not consisting entirely of susceptible individuals (microparasites) or within which density dependent constraints limit parasite population growth (macroparasites). Under conditions of stable endemic infection, R=1.

• RE - Reproductive endocrinologist

  Reproductive endocrinologist - an OB-GYN who specializes in the treatment of hormonal disorders that affect reproductive function.

  A medical specialty combining obstetrics and gynecology with endocrinology to treat reproductive disorders.

• Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)

  Reactive Oxygen Species - oxygen free radicals. High levels of ROS generation are linked a reduced ability of sperm to bind to the zona pellucida. Vitamin E may significantly improve this aspect of sperm function.

• Recipient

  Recipient - a women who receives the fertilized eggs (often by her husband's sperm) from an egg donor. These embryos are transferred to her uterus after a 2-3 week period of hormonal preparation to have the uterus ready to accept these embryos. The recipient is considered the biological mother since she will carry, nourish and deliver the infant.

• Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone (R-FSH, R-hFSH)

  Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.

• Recrudescence

  Recrudescence - reappearance of disease in a host whose infection has been quiescent.

• Recurrent Miscarriage

  Recurrent Miscarriage - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.

• Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)

  Recurrent Pregnancy Loss - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.

• Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion (RSA)

  Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.

• Relative risk (RR)

  The proportion of diseased people amongst those exposed to the relevant risk factor divided by the proportion of diseased people amongst those not exposed to the risk factor. This should be used in those cohort studies where those with and without disease are followed to observe which individuals become diseased.

• Reproductive ratio

  Reproductive ratio - basic reproductive ratio, Ro, a dimensionless parameter which encapsulates the biological details of different transmission mechanisms. For microparasites, Ro, is defined as the average number of secondary cases of infection to which one primary case gives rise throughout its infectious period if introduced into a defined population consisting solely of susceptible individuals. For macroparasites, Ro, is the average number of female offspring (or just offspring in the case of hermaphroditic species) produced throughout the lifetime of a mature female parasite, which themselves achieve reproductive maturity in the absence of density-dependent constraints on the parasite establishment, survival or reproduction.

  Also known as the basic reproduction rate, number.

  Effective reproductive ratio, R, The number of secondary cases (microparasites) or female offspring (macroparasites) produced in a host population not consisting entirely of susceptible individuals (microparasites) or within which density dependent constraints limit parasite population growth (macroparasites). Under conditions of stable endemic infection, R=1.

• Reproductive surgeon

  Reproductive surgeon - an OB-GYN or Urologist who specializes in the surgical correction of anatomical disorders that impair reproductive function.

• Repronex - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG)

  Repronex - a brand name hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Injectable medications consisting of luteinizing (LH) and follicle stimulating (FSH) hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce the development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex).

• Resistance

  Resistance - the reduction, due to genetic selection, of susceptibility of a parasite or its vector to chemotherapy. The ability of a host to resist a pathogen.

• Retrograde ejaculation

  Retrograde ejaculation - ejaculation backwards into the bladder instead of forward through the urethra.

  Retrograde Ejaculation - a male fertility problem that allows the sperm to travel into the bladder instead of out the opening of the penis due to a failure in the sphincter muscle at the base of the bladder.

• Retrospective study

  A study in which people are enrolled and then have their history of risks, infections or disease measured.

• Relative risk (RR)

  The proportion of diseased people amongst those exposed to the relevant risk factor divided by the proportion of diseased people amongst those not exposed to the risk factor. This should be used in those cohort studies where those with and without disease are followed to observe which individuals become diseased.

• Reproductive Immunologist (RI)

  Reproductive Immunologist - a medical specialty combining obstetrics and gynecology with immunology to treat reproductive disorders that are related to immune problems.

• Reproductive Immunophynotype (RIP)

  Reproductive Immunophynotype - a test which looks for cells that have the CD56+ marker in order to determine the portion of natural killer cells. An NK (CD56+) cell range above 12 percent is abnormal.

• Repronex (hMG)

  Repronex - a medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Similar to Humegon and Pergonal. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.

• Resistant Ovary

  Resistant Ovary - an ovary that cannot respond to the follicle-stimulating message sent by FSH. Primitive germ cells will be present in the ovary; however, they will not respond to FSH stimulation.

• Retroverted Uterus

  Retroverted Uterus - uterus that is tilted back toward the rectum.

• Reversal

  Reversal - undoing a sterilization procedure such as a tubal ligation or vasectomy.

• Rh Factor

  Rh Factor - any of one or more genetically determined antigens present inthe red blood cells of most persons and capable of inducing intenseimmunologic reactions. Some women develop a sensitization to Rh duringpregnancy. If a woman is Rh negative and her husband is Rh positive, she isa candidate for Rh incompatibility problems. After the first pregnancy, theRh factor enters the Rh-negative mother's circulatory system during thedelivery (or miscarriage) of a child who has inherited the Rh factor fromhis father. The mother's body then produces antibodies against it. If shebecomes pregnant with another Rh-positive baby, the antibodies cross theplacenta and attack the baby's red blood cells, causing mild to seriousanemia in the baby.

• Rhogam (Anti-D)

  Rhogam - an immunization given to Rh-negative women after amiscarriage, stillbirth, or live birth to prevent production of antibodiesin any Rh-positive babies they may have in future pregnancies.

• RI - Reproductive Immunologist

  Reproductive Immunologist - a medical specialty combining obstetricsand gynecology with immunology to treat reproductive disorders that arerelated to immune problems.

• RIP - Reproductive Immunophynotype

  Reproductive Immunophynotype - a test which looks for cells that havethe CD56+ marker in order to determine the portion of natural killer cells.An NK (CD56+) cell range above 12 percent is abnormal.

• ROS - Reactive Oxygen Species

  Reactive Oxygen Species - oxygen free radicals. High levels of ROS generation are linked a reduced ability of sperm to bind to the zona pellucida. Vitamin E may significantly improve this aspect of sperm function.

• RPL - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

  Recurrent Pregnancy Loss - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.

• RSA - Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion

  Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.

• RX

  Rx - Prescription

• S
• S/B - Stillbirth (s/b, S/B)

  Stillbirth - the death of a fetus between the twentieth week of gestation and birth.

• SA - Semen Analysis

  Semen analysis - a test to check for sperm quantity and quality. A sperm sample collected by masturbation after 3 days of abstinence is used for the test. The test checks for sperm concentration (normal is greater than 20 million/ml), the sperm motility (normal is greater than 50% motility), sperm shape or morphology (normal is greater than 15% normal forms), volume of the sample (normal is greater than 2cc) and viscosity or thickness of the sample. The test is performed by computer analysis. A male factor (or some type of sperm abnormality) is responsible for up to 40-50% of infertility cases

  A laboratory test used to assess semen quality: sperm quantity, concentration, morphology (form), and motility. In addition, it measures semen (fluid) volume and whether or not white blood cells are present, indicating an infection.

• Salpingectomy

  Salpingectomy - surgical removal of the fallopian tubes.

• Salpingitis

  Salpingitis - inflamation of one or both fallopian tubes.

• Salpingitis isthmica nodosa

  Salpingitis isthmica nodosa - an abnormal condition of the fallopian tube where it attaches to the uterus, characterized by nodules.

• Salpingo-oophorectomy

  Salpingo-oophorectomy - surgical removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

• Salpingolysis

  Salpingolysis - surgery performed to remove adhesions that restrict the movement and function of reproductive organs.

• Salpingostomy

  Salpingostomy - an incision in a fallopian tube, such as to remove an ectopic pregnancy

  A surgical incision made in a fallopian tube, as in to repair a tube or to remove an ectopic pregnancy.

• Salpingotomy

  Salpingotomy - an operation to open a blocked fallopian tube.

• SART

  SART - Society of Assisted Reproductive Technology.

• SCORIF - Stimulated Cycle Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization

  Stimulated Cycle Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - the woman's ovaries are stimulated with medications such as hMG or pure FSH. The eggs are removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The eggs are mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized eggs are then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.

• Scrotum

  Premature Rupture of Membranes - spontaneous rupture of fetal membranes at least one hour before the onset of labor. Characterized by a trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina.

• Secondary Infertility (SI)

  Secondary Infertility - the inability of a couple to achieve a second pregnancy. This strict medical definition includes couples for whom the pregnancy did not go to term. The common vernacular, however, refers to a couple which has one biological child (or more) but is unable to conceive another.

• Secondary Sex Characteristics

  Secondary Sex Characteristics - the physical qualities that distinguish man and woman, such as beard, large breasts, and deep voice. Formed under the stimulation of the sex hormones (testosterone or estrogen), these characteristics also identify those people who have gone through puberty (sexual maturity).

• SEIR model

  A class of compartmental prevalence models, with compartments Susceptible, Latent (Exposed), Infectious and Recovered. Takes its name from a common notation. In the notation used in the course, this would be an XHYZ model. Many permutations possible.

• Semen (Seminal Fluid)

  Semen - the fluid containing sperm and secretions from the testicles, prostate, and seminal vesicles that is expelled during ejaculation.

  The fluid portion of the ejaculate consisting of secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and several other glands in the male reproductive tract. The semen provides nourishment and protection for the sperm and a medium in which the sperm can travel to the woman's vagina. Semen may also refer to the entire ejaculate, including the sperm.

• Semen Viscosity

  Semen Viscosity - the liquid flow or consistency of the semen.

• Seminal vesicles

  Seminal vesicles - the paired glands at the base of the bladder that produce seminal fluid and fructose.

  Pair of pouch like glands at the base of the bladder that produce much of the semen volume, including fructose (sugar) for nourishing the sperm and a chemical that causes the semen to coagulate on entering the vagina.

• Seminiferous tubules

  Seminiferous tubules - in the testicles, the network of tubes where sperm are formed, mature and move toward the epididymis.

• Sensitivity

  Sensitivity - the ability of a test to work on people you know have the infection. More precisely TP/(TP+FN), where TP is the number of true positives and FN is the number of false negatives.

• Septate Uterus

  Septate Uterus - the presence of a thick membrane that separates the uterine cavity either partially or completely into two separate cavities. This can interfere with normal implantation and cause recurrent miscarriages. The treatment is done by hysteroscopy and involves cutting the septum under direct vision.

  A uterus divided into right and left halves by a wall of tissue (septum). Women with a septate uterus have an increased chance of early pregnancy loss.

• Septum

  Septum - a dividing wall within a body cavity, such as a wall dividing the uterus in half.

• Serology

  Serology - the study of antigen-antibody reactions. More generally, the use of serotype data to infer an individual's history of infection.

• Serophene® (Clomiphene citrate)

  Serophene® - medication also known under generic name Clomiphene citrate. It is a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone that is commonly used for ovulation induction. It comes in 50 mg tablets that are taken by mouth once a day for 5 days in the early part of the menstrual cycle. It works by stimulating the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. Due to its antiestrogenic actions, some of its effects include abnormal cervical mucus and endometrial lining. The former can interfere with normal passage of sperm through the cervix to reach the egg, and the latter with implantation. Some women may complain of hot flashes (10%), nausea and/or breast discomfort (2-5%). Visual symptoms (blurring) occur rarely (less than 1.5%) but are an indication to discontinue therapy.

• Seropositive

  Seropositive - an individual whose serotype suggests that they have experienced infection in the past.

• Seroprevalence

  Seroprevalence - the proportion of a population who are seropositive.

• Serotype

  The range of antibodies which an individual possesses, usually based on sampling from blood serum or saliva.

  Different strains of a pathogen can sometimes be distinguished by the different antibodies they induce in a host, or with which they can be made to react in vitro; thus the word serotype has also come to be applied to a particular strain (the virulent serotype). This is the more common clinical usage.

  The range of antibodies used to define a serotype obviously depends on those available to the researcher. Sometimes, as for measles, the presence of a known antibody within the serum of an individual correlates extremely well with the clinical observation that that individual is protected against any further infections. But sometimes, as for malaria, there is as yet no definite relationship between a given serotype and the presence of a functional immunity, which may make the use of the word serotype unhelpful when trying to distinguish between different parasites for the purposes of understanding transmission.

• Sertoli cells

  Sertoli cells - the cells in the testicles that provide nourshment to the early sperm cells.

• Sertoli (Nurse) Cells

  Sertoli (Nurse) Cells - testicular cells responsible for providing nurishment to the spermatids (immature sperm). Secretes inhibin, a feedback hormone, which regulates FSH production by the pituitary gland. When stimulated by FSH, the Sertoli cell initiates spermatogenesis.

• Sexually transmitted disease (STD)

  Sexually transmitted disease - any infection that can be sexually transmitted, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, ureaplasma, and syphilis. Many of these diseases will interfere with fertility and some will cause severe illness.

• Sheehan's Syndrome

  Sheehan's Syndrome - a condition caused by profuse hemorrhage at the time of delivery. The severe blood loss shocks the pituitary gland, which dies and becomes nonfunctional.

• SHG - Sonohysterogram

  Sonohysterogram - an ultrasound/sonogram in which saline is injected into the uterus. It is used to check for abnormalities. It has some similarity to a hysterosalpingogram in purpose, but does not require iodine dye injection or radiation.

• Short Luteal Phase (SLP)

  Short Luteal Phase - inadequate function of the corpus luteum which results in insufficient levels of progesterone. This may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus or may lead to early pregnancy loss Luteinized Unruptured.

• SIS

  SIS - Saline Injection Sonogram.

• SLE - Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

  Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - an inflammatory connective tissue disease of unknown cause that occurs chiefly in women is characterized by fever, skin rash, and arthritis, often by acute anemia, by small hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membrane, by inflammation of the pericardium, and in serious cases by involvement of the kidneys and central nervous system. If needed for arthritic symptoms or by women with the lupus anticoagulant, daily doses of aspirin and the steroid prednisone seem to reduce overall risk of pregnancy complications. Pregnancy complications in women with lupus can include blood clotting problems and a high risk of preterm delivery.

• Slow Responder

  Slow Responder - a woman who takes longer than average (10 days) to produce mature follicles on injectable fertility medications.

• SLP - Short Luteal Phase

  Short Luteal Phase - inadequate function of the corpus luteum which results in insufficient levels of progesterone. This may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus or may lead to early pregnancy loss Luteinized Unruptured.

• Somatic mutations

  Somatic mutations - gene changes that arise within individual cells and accumulate throughout a person's lifetime; also called acquired mutations.

• Sonogram (Ultrasound)

  Sonogram - use of high-frequency sound waves for creating an image of internal body parts. Used to detect and count follicle growth (and disappearance) in many fertility treatments. Also used to detect and monitor pregnancy.

• Sonohysterogram (SHG)

  Sonohysterogram - an ultrasound/sonogram in which saline is injected into the uterus. It is used to check for abnormalities. It has some similarity to a hysterosalpingogram in purpose, but does not require iodine dye injection or radiation.

• Sonohysterography

  Sonohysterography - a safer alternative to hysterography.

• SPA - Sperm penetration assay

  Sperm Penetration Assay - a test of the ability of a man's sperm to penetrate a hamster egg stripped of its outer membrane, the zona pellucida. Also called the Hamster test.

• Specificity

  Specificity - the ability of a test to fail on people you know don't have the infection. More precisely TN/(TN+FP), where TN is the number of true negatives and FP is the number of false positives

• Sperm

  Sperm - male gamete or reproductive cell.

  The microscopic cell that carries the male's genetic information to the female's egg. The male reproductive cell, the male gamete.

• Sperm Agglutination

  Sperm Agglutination - sperm clumping caused by antibody reactions or by infection.

• Sperm bank

  Sperm bank - a place where sperm are kept frozen in liquid nitrogen for later use in artificial insemination.

• Sperm count

  Sperm count - the number of sperm in the ejaculate (when given as the number of sperm per milliliter it is more accurately known as the sperm concentration or sperm density).

• Sperm Injection and Assisted Rupture

  Follicle Aspiration, Sperm Injection and Assisted Rupture (FASIAR) - a procedure involving the use of ultrasound for guidance to remove eggs from their follicles. Sperm and eggs are mixed inside the syringe and then injected back into the patient. If the woman develops too many eggs, the physician can remove some and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.

• Sperm Maturation

  Sperm Maturation - a process during which the sperm grow and gain their ability to swim. Sperm take about ninety days to reach maturity.

• Sperm Morphology

  Sperm Morphology - a semen analysis factor that indicates the number or percentage of sperm in the sample that appear to have been formed normally. Abnormal morphology includes sperm with kinked, doubled, or coiled tails. The higher the percentage of misshapen sperm, the less likely fertilization can take place.

• Sperm Motility

  Sperm Motility - the ability of sperm to swim. Poor motility means the sperm have a difficult time swimming toward their goal - the egg.

• Sperm Penetration

  Sperm Penetration - the ability of the sperm to penetrate the egg so it can deposit the genetic material during fertilization.

• Sperm Washing

  Sperm Washing - a laboratory technique for separating sperm from semen, and separating motile sperm from non-motile sperm, for use in assisted reproduction. The washing technique for near normal specimens is mixing the ejaculate after liquefaction with the appropriate washing medium followed by centrifugation. The supernatant is discarded and the sediment (sperm rich fraction) is re-suspended in more washing medium. This process is repeated 2-3 times maximum. In the final wash, the sediment is re-suspended in 0.5 cc of medium, loaded into a syringe and deposited in the uterus. "Sperm Rise" or "Swim-up" technique: Two to five cc of medium are carefully layered on top of 0.2-0.5 cc of semen. Motile sperm cells "swim-up" into the culture medium. After some time (30-90 minutes) the medium (containing motile sperm cells) is carefully harvested and centrifuged. If necessary, fresh medium is layered on top of the seminal fluid again to harvest more sperm cells. Discontinuous gradient centrifugation: This technique utilizes a dense liquid phase to separate sperm cells from seminal fluid and debris. Different compounds commercially available can be utilized. Semen is deposited on top of this fluid and subjected to centrifugation. Motile sperm cells migrate to the bottom of the tube, which are used for IUI after further washing.

• Spermatic Cord

  Spermatic Cord - the cord suspending the testes. It is composed of veins, arteries, lymphatics, nerves and the vas deferens.

• Spermatogenesis

  Spermatogenesis - sperm production in the seminiferous tubules.

• Spermicide

  Spermicide - an agent that kills sperm.

• Spinnbarkeit

  Spinnbarkeit - the stretchability of cervical mucus. The stringy quality that occurs at midcycle under the influence of estrogen.

• Split Ejaculate

  Split Ejaculate - a method used to concentrate the sperm for insemination; separating the semen into two portions: the first portion of the ejaculate, which is rich in sperm, and the second portion, which contains mostly seminal fluid.

• Spontaneous Abortion

  Spontaneous Abortion - an unplanned end to a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks.

• Spontaneous Miscarriage

  Spontaneous Miscarriage - an unplanned end to a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks.

• SQ

  SQ - abbreviation for subcutaneous, used to describe injections given under the skin.

• STD - Sexually transmitted disease

  Sexually transmitted disease - any infection that can be sexually transmitted, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, ureaplasma, and syphilis. Many of these diseases will interfere with fertility and some will cause severe illness.

• Stein-Leventhal Disease

  Stein-Leventhal Disease - another name for Polycystic Ovaries. Polycystic ovarian syndrome - a condition characterized by multiple ovarian cysts, increased androgen production, and anovulation. A condition found in women who don't ovulate, characterized by excessive production of androgens (male sex hormones) and the presence of cysts in the ovaries. Though PCO can be without symptoms, some include excessive weight gain, acne and excessive hair growth.

• Sterility

  Sterility - an irreversible condition that prevents conception.

• Sterilization

  A surgical procedure used to undo a previous sterilization operation and restore fertility.

• Sterilization reversal

  SQ - abbreviation for subcutaneous, used to describe injections given under the skin.

• Stillbirth (s/b, S/B)

  Stillbirth - the death of a fetus between the twentieth week of gestation and birth.

• Stimulated Cycle Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization (SCORIF)

  Stimulated Cycle Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - the woman's ovaries are stimulated with medications such as hMG or pure FSH. The eggs are removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The eggs are mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized eggs are then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.

• Stochastic model

  Stochastic model - mathematical model which takes into consideration the presence of some randomness in one or more of its parameters or variables. The predictions of the model therefore do not give a single point estimate but a probability distribution of possible estimates. Contrast with deterministic.

  We might distinguish demographic stochasticity which arises from the discreteness of individuals and individual events such as birth, and environmental stochasticity arising from more-or-less unpredictable interactions with the outside world.

• Subclinical infection

  An infection in which symptoms are sufficiently mild or inapparent to escape diagnosis other than by positive confirmation of the ability to transmit the infection or serologically.

• Subzonal Insertion (SUZI)

  Subzonal Insertion - a predecessor to ICSI where the zona pellucida is punctured and sperm inserted into the area between the zona and the egg. Having more than one sperm enter the egg is a potential problem with this procedure.

• Superovulation

  Superovulation - using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also known as Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH).

• Surrogate gestational mother

  Surrogate gestational mother - also called a Host Uterus. A couple's embryo is transferred to another woman who carries the pregnancy to term and returns the baby to the genetic parents immediately after birth.

• Susceptible

  SQ - abbreviation for subcutaneous, used to describe injections given under the skin.

• Superovulation

  Superovulation - stimulation of multiple ovulation with fertility drugs; also known as controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH).

• Surrogacy

  Surrogacy - a pregnancy for someone else. The host is not the biological mother of the baby being carried.

• Surrogate

  Surrogate - a women who accepts to bear (or be pregnant with) the child of another woman who is incapable of becoming pregnant. Women who need surrogates include those who do not have a uterus (for instance because of surgery), have an abnormal uterine cavity, have had several recurrent miscarriages, or have had recurrent failed IVF cycles.

• Surrogate Mother

  Surrogate Mother - woman who is artificially inseminated or undergoes an IVF procedure and carries to term a baby that will be adopted and raised by its genetic father and his partner. The term is usually used for a woman who is the biological mother of the baby she is carrying, while a gestational host carries a fetus that is not genetically hers.

• Symptom

  Symptom - a condition of the body reported by an individual when suffering from a disease; here used more loosely to include signs: any evidence used in diagnosis or identification of infected individuals.

• Synarel

  Synarel - synthetic hormone used to treat endometriosis or for regulation before or during a controlled ovarian hyperstimulation cycle.

• Synthetic

  Synthetic - made through artificial means.

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

  Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - an inflammatory connective tissue disease of unknown cause that occurs chiefly in women, is characterized by fever, skin rash, and arthritis, often by acute anemia, by small hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membrane, by inflammation of the pericardium, and in serious cases by involvement of the kidneys and central nervous system. If needed for arthritic symptoms or by women with the lupus anticoagulant, daily doses of aspirin and the steroid prednisone seem to reduce overall risk of pregnancy complications. Pregnancy complications in women with lupus can include blood clotting problems and a high risk of preterm delivery.

• T
• T4

  T4 - Thyroxine

• T cell

  T cell - white blood cell responsible for cell-mediated immunity in particular and immunoregulation in general.

• T4 - Thyroxine

  Thyroxine - along with T3, one of the main thyroid hormones; its level can be checked in blood by a simple blood test. It reflects the activity of the thyroid gland.

  It is important to measure this hormone especially in women with abnormal cycles, because thyroid diseases can interfere with normal ovulation.

  A chemical substance made by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland uses iodine to make thyroid hormones. Thyroxine (T4), one of the most important thyroid hormones, has four iodine molecules attached to its molecular structure. Thyroid hormones are essential for the function of every cell in the body. They help regulate growth and the rate of chemical reactions (metabolism) in the body.

• TEBG (TeBG)

  TEBG - Testosterone-Estradiol Binding Globulin (Testosterone-estradiol-binding Globulin).

• TED - Testicular Enzyme Defect (TED)

  Testicular Enzyme Defect - a congenital enzyme defect that prevents the testes from responding to hormonal stimulation. Will result in oligospermia or azozoospermia.

• Teratogen

  Teratogen - any substance capable of causing malformations in a developing embryo.

• Termination

  Termination - the ending of a pregnancy by choice by induced labor (resulting in a live birth or stillbirth) or abortion.

• TESA - Testicular Sperm Aspiration

  Testicular Sperm Aspiration - a needle biopsy of the testicle used to obtain small amounts of sperm. A small incision is made in the scrotal skin and a spring loaded needle is fired through the testicle. Usually does not result in enough sperm to freeze for later use.

• TESE - Testicular Sperm Extraction

  Testicular Sperm Extraction - an open biopsy where a small piece of testicular tissue is removed through a skin incision. The tissue is placed in culture media and separated into tiny pieces. Sperm are released from within the seminiferous tubules where they are produced and are then extracted from the surrounding testicular tissue. This procedure can be done using local anesthetic of IV sedation. It is possible to get enough sperm to freeze for future use.

• Testes

  Testes - the two male sexual glands contained in the scrotum. They produce the male hormone testosterone and the male reproductive cells (sperm).

• Testicle

  Testicle - the male gonad; produces sperm and male sex hormones.

• Testicular biopsy

  Testicular biopsy - the removal of a fragment of a testicle for examination under the microscope.

  A minor surgical procedure used to take a small sample of testicular tissue for microscopic examination; a test used to diagnose male fertility problems when no other means is available (this is because the biopsy procedure itself may cause testicular damage).

• Testicular Enzyme Defect (TED)

  Testicular Enzyme Defect - a congenital enzyme defect that prevents the testes from responding to hormonal stimulation. Will result in oligospermia or azozoospermia.

• Testicular Failure

  Testicular Failure - a congenital, developmental, or genetic error resulting in a testicular malformation that prevents sperm production.

  Acquired testicular damage, for example, from drugs, prolonged exposure to toxic substances, or a varicocoele.

• Testicular Feminization

  Testicular Feminization - an enzymatic defect that prevents a man from responding to the male hormone testosterone. The man will look like a woman, but karyotyping will reveal a normal XY male chromosome pattern, and testosterone levels will be in the normal male range.

• Testicular Stress Pattern (TSP)

  Testicular Stress Pattern - a semen analysis result showing depressed sperm production, poor sperm motility, and poor sperm morphology. The pattern is consistent with secondary testicular failure or illness.

• Testicular Torsion

  Testicular Torsion - when testicle twists on itself, cutting off its own blood supply. Causes extreme pain, and requires immediate surgical repair to reduce damage to the testicle

• Testosterone

  Testosterone - the male hormone responsible for the formation of secondary sex characteristics and for supporting the sex drive. Testosterone is also necessary for spermatogenesis.

• TET - Tubal Embryo Transfer

  Tubal Embryo Transfer - a laparoscopic procedure where an embryo is placed directly into the fallopian tube several days following egg retrieval.

  The placement of an embryo inside the fallopian tube after in vitro fertilization. The process is meant to mimic the natural process of a fertilized embryo traveling down the tube and implanting in the uterus.

• TFR - Total fertility rate

  Total fertility rate - the number of children an average women would have assuming that she lives her full reproductive lifetime.

• Therapeutic Abortion

  Therapeutic Abortion - a termination of a pregnancy due to severe abnormalities in the fetus or where the mother's health is at risk.

• Threatened Miscarriage

  Threatened Miscarriage - an incident in which certain symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or severe cramping, occur during the first half of pregnancy. The symptoms may stop or may progress to a miscarriage.

• Thyroid gland

  Thyroid gland - the endocrine gland in the front of the neck that produces thyroid hormones, which regulate the body's metabolism

• Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH)

  Thyroid Releasing Hormone - peptide hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and passed through the hypophyseal portal venous system. In the anterior pituitary, TRH stimulates synthesis and release of Thyrotropin (TSH).

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

  Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - also called thyrotropin. A hormone produced by the pituitary gland (at the base of the brain) that promotes the growth of the thyroid gland (in the neck) and stimulates it.

• Thyroxine (T4)

  Thyroxine - along with T3, one of the main thyroid hormones; its level can be checked in blood by a simple blood test. It reflects the activity of the thyroid gland.

  It is important to measure this hormone especially in women with abnormal cycles, because thyroid diseases can interfere with normal ovulation.

  A chemical substance made by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland uses iodine to make thyroid hormones. Thyroxine (T4), one of the most important thyroid hormones, has four iodine molecules attached to its molecular structure. Thyroid hormones are essential for the function of every cell in the body. They help regulate growth and the rate of chemical reactions (metabolism) in the body.

• Tipped Uterus

  Tipped Uterus - when the uterus is tipped toward a woman's back instead of tilting forward as is more common. This alone should not be considered a cause of infertility.

• TL

  TL - Tubal Ligation.

• TNF - Tumor Necrosis Factor

  Tumor Necrosis Factor - a monokine produced in various parts of the body. It is important in stimulating leukocytosis, fever and necrosis (death of some tissues surrounded by healthy tissue). This might be described as the body's natural form of chemotherapy.

• Tocolytic

  Tocolytic - a drug that relaxes smooth muscles and therefore interferes with uterine contractions; frequently used to stop premature labor.

• TORCH

  TORCH - Toxoplasmosis, Other, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus & Herpes test.

• TORCH Organisms

  TORCH Organisms - toxoplasmosis, syphillis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and other diseases which may harm the embryo/fetus.

• Torsion

  Torsion - the twisting of the testis inside the scrotum. Besides causing extreme pain and swelling, the rotation twists off the blood supply and causes severe damage to the testicle. Torsion of the ovary may also occur in a woman suffering from hyperstimulation, a complication of ovulation induction treatment.

• Total effective sperm count

  Total effective sperm count - an estimate of the number of sperm in an ejaculate capable of fertilization; total sperm count X percent motility X percent forward progressive motility, X percent normal morphology.

• Total fertility rate (TFR)

  Total fertility rate - the number of children an average women would have assuming that she lives her full reproductive lifetime.

• Toxin

  Toxin - a poison produced by a living organism (plant or animal), such as by some bacteria.

• TR

  TR - Tubal Reversal.

• Transmission

  Transmission - the process by which a pathogen passes from a source of infection to a new host. There are two major types: horizontal and vertical transmission. The majority of transmission processes operate horizontally.

• Transmission breakpoint

  Transmission breakpoint - a critical average worm burden below which the mating frequency is too low to maintain a dioecious parasite species.

• Transmission threshold

  Transmission threshold - occurs for a parasite when the basic reproductive rate Ro is equal to 1. Below this threshold level the disease is unable to maintain itself within the host population.

• Transuterine Fallopian Transfer (TUFT)

  Transuterine Fallopian Transfer - the placement of an embryo inside the fallopian tube after in vitro fertilization. The transfer is made by threading a tube through the cervical canal and uterus and depositing the embryo into the fallopian tube. The process is meant to mimic the natural process of a fertilized embryo traveling down the tube and implanting in the uterus.

• Transvaginal

  Transvaginal - through the vagina or across its wall as in a surgical procedure.

• Transvaginal Ultrasound

  Transvaginal Ultrasound - an ultrasound examination performed by means of inserting a probe into the vagina. This type of ultrasound is common for viewing follicle growth This can produce better images in early pregnancy that could be obtained with conventional abdominal sonograms.

• TRH - Thyroid Releasing Hormone

  Thyroid Releasing Hormone - peptide hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus and passed through the hypophyseal portal venous system. In the anterior pituitary, TRH stimulates synthesis and release of Thyrotropin (TSH).

• Triphasic

  Triphasic - having three phases. Used to describe a basal body temperature chart that shows three levels of temperatures: low temperatures before ovulation, a shift up of at least .4 degrees Fahrenheit after ovulation, and then another shift upward that may coincide with the implantation of an embryo.

• Trophoblastic Disease (Molar Pregnancy)

  Trophoblastic Disease - the fertilization of an egg without a nucleus. A baby (usually anomalous) may or may not be present, and the placenta develops into a nonmalignant tumor called a hydatidiform mole. The layer of cells that line the gestational sac and normally give rise to the chorionic villi convert into a mass of clear, tapioca-like vesicles instead of into a healthy placenta. The fertilized egg then deteriorates. Probably caused by a chromosomal abnormality in the fertilized egg. A continuous or intermittent brownish discharge is the prime symptom. Treated by a D&C and sometimes methotrexate.

• TSH - Thyroid Stimulating Hormone

  Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - also called thyrotropin. A hormone produced by the pituitary gland (at the base of the brain) that promotes the growth of the thyroid gland (in the neck) and stimulates it.

• TSP - Testicular Stress Pattern

  Testicular Stress Pattern - a semen analysis result showing depressed sperm production, poor sperm motility, and poor sperm morphology. The pattern is consistent with secondary testicular failure or illness.

• Tubal Embryo Transfer (TET)

  Tubal Embryo Transfer - a laparoscopic procedure where an embryo is placed directly into the fallopian tube several days following egg retrieval.

  The placement of an embryo inside the fallopian tube after in vitro fertilization. The process is meant to mimic the natural process of a fertilized embryo traveling down the tube and implanting in the uterus.

• Tubal Ligation

  Tubal Ligation - surgical sterilization of a woman by obstructing or tying the fallopian tubes.

• TUFT - Transuterine Fallopian Transfer

  Transuterine Fallopian Transfer - the placement of an embryo inside the fallopian tube after in vitro fertilization. The transfer is made by threading a tube through the cervical canal and uterus and depositing the embryo into the fallopian tube. The process is meant to mimic the natural process of a fertilized embryo traveling down the tube and implanting in the uterus.

• Turner's Syndrome

  Turner's Syndrome - the most common genetic defect contributing to female fertility problems. The ovaries fail to form and appear as slender threads of atrophic ovarian tissue, referred to as streak ovaries. Karyotyping will reveal that this woman has only one female (X) chromosome instead of two or a mosaic (46XX and 45X).

• TX

  Tx - Treatment

• Type I mortality

  A mortality schedule in which all hosts are assumed to live for a fixed number of years equal to the life expectancy.

• Type II mortality

  A mortality schedule in which all hosts are assumed to die at a constant rate. This constant rate is equal to the inverse of the life expectancy.

• TSH

  TSH - a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that controls the thyroid gland. Elevated levels imply abnormally low thyroid function. The level of this hormone in blood is checked in most women with infertility, because certain thyroid diseases are associated with infertility

• Tubal Embryo Transfer (TET)

  Tubal Embryo Transfer - a laparoscopic procedure where an embryo is placed directly into the fallopian tube several days following egg retrieval.

• Tubal ligation

  Tubal ligation - surgical sterilization of a woman by obstructing or "tying" the fallopian tubes.

• Tubal Patency

  Tubal Patency - open and unobstructed fallopian tubes.

• Tubal pregnancy (Ectopic pregnancy)

  Tubal pregnancy - a normal pregnancy results when the embryo implants inside the uterus. When implantation occurs outside the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy occurs. Such an abnormal pregnancy can be located in the tubes, the ovaries, and the cervix or inside the abdomen. In 1987, roughly 2 of every 100 women who were known to conceive were hospitalized for ectopic pregnancy. This incidence is slightly higher with in vitro fertilization. The most common symptoms are abnormal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. Women who have tubule damage (such as scarring from infection) are at an increased risk for an ectopic pregnancy. The incidence is also higher in women who have had children, especially those who have been pregnant three or more times.

• Tubocornual Anastomosis

  Tubocornual Anastomosis - surgery performed to remove a blocked portion of the fallopian tube and to reconnect the tube to the uterus. Tubouterine implantation may also be performed to remove fallopian tube blockage near the uterus and reimplant the tube in the uterus.

• Tuboplasty

  Tuboplasty - plastic or reconstructive surgery on the fallopian tubes to correct abnormalities that cause infertility.

• Tubotubal Anastomosis

  Tubotubal Anastomosis - surgery performed to remove a diseased portion of the fallopian tube and reconnect the two ends; sterilization reversal.

• Tumor

  Tumor - an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant (cancerous).

• Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)

  Tumor Necrosis Factor - a monokine produced in various parts of the body. It is important in stimulating leukocytosis, fever and necrosis (death of some tissues surrounded by healthy tissue). This might be described as the body's natural form of chemotherapy.

• Type I mortality

  Type I mortality - a mortality schedule in which all hosts are assumed to live for a fixed number of years equal to the life expectancy.

• Type II mortality

  Type II mortality - a mortality schedule in which all hosts are assumed to die at a constant rate. This constant rate is equal to the inverse of the life expectancy.

• TZD

  TZD - Thiazolidinediones

• U
• Ultrasound (US, u/s, Sonogram)

  Ultrasound - use of high-frequency sound waves for creating an image of internal body parts. Used to detect and count follicle growth (and disappearance) in many fertility treatments. Also used to detect and monitor pregnancy.

• Ultrasound (US) Examination

  Ultrasound examination - one of the most common imaging techniques a woman undergoes during infertility treatment. Almost all ultrasound examinations for this purpose are currently done through the vagina using a vaginal transducer. An ultrasound transducer emits acoustic sound waves that bounce back when they hit different types of tissues in the body along its path. These waves are then recaptured by the transducer and sent to the ultrasound computer. The ultrasound transforms these waves into gray scale pictures that are seen on a monitor screen. The texture of the particular tissue that the ultrasound wave traverses or hits determines the way it will look on the monitor. For instance, clear fluids such as water or urine will appear black, while bony structures will appear white. The vaginal transducer is about 15 inches long of which only about 5 inches will enter into the vagina. It is about 1 inch in diameter. The procedure is painless for the vast majority of women. It enables visualization of the pelvic organs including ovarian cysts, tumors, uterine fibroids and pregnancies. It is also used routinely to follow the growth and development of ovarian follicles (see follicle) during ovulation induction with fertility drugs, such as in patients who are undergoing IVF.

• Umbilical Cord

  Umbilical Cord - two arteries and one vein encased in a gelatinous tube leading from the baby to the placenta. Used to exchange nutrients and oxygen from the mother for waste products from the baby.

• Undecended testicles (Cryptorchidism)

  Undecended testicles (Cryptorchidism) - when one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. The failure of the testicles to descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum by one year of age. If not repaired by age six, may result in permanent fertility loss.

• Unexplained Infertility

  Unexplained (Idiopathic) Infertility - when no cause for infertility can be found after substantial testing.

  A diagnosis of exclusion, once a couple have both been evaluated. The reasons for infertility are unable to be determined. Approximately 10 to 15 percent of couples will receive the diagnosis of unexplained infertility.

• Unicornate Uterus

  Unicornate Uterus - an abnormality in which the uterus is "one sided" and smaller than usual.

• UR - Urologist

  Urologist - a physician who specializes in the surgical treatment of disorders of the urinary tract and male reproductive tract

• Ureaplasma

  Ureaplasma (similar to Mycoplasma) - an infection that may cause the formation of sperm antibodies and an inflammation of the uterine lining, either of which may interfere with implantation of the embryo.

• Urethra

  Urethra - the tube that allows urine to pass between the bladder and the outside of the body. In the man this tube also carries semen from the area of the prostate to the outside.

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

  Urinary Tract Infection - infection of the kidney, ureter, bladder, or urethra. Common symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate and a painful burning when urinating, but symptoms are not always present.

• Urologist (UR)

  Urologist - a physician who specializes in the surgical treatment of disorders of the urinary tract and male reproductive tract

• US - Ultrasound (Sonogram)

  Ultrasound - use of high-frequency sound waves for creating an image of internal body parts. Used to detect and count follicle growth (and disappearance) in many fertility treatments. Also used to detect and monitor pregnancy.

• Uterus

  Uterus - a hollow muscular organ (as big as a small pear) present in the pelvis. It is connected to the vagina by the cervix and to the abdominal cavity by the fallopian tubes. Its main function is to contain and nourish the fertilized egg as it develops into an embryo, a fetus and eventually an infant. Its inside is lined by a thick layer of specialized glandular cells called the endometrium.

• UTI - Urinary Tract Infection

  Urinary Tract Infection - infection of the kidney, ureter, bladder, or urethra. Common symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate and a painful burning when urinating, but symptoms are not always present.

• V
• V - Vasectomy

  Vasectomy - surgical sterilization of a man by separating both vas deferens.

• Vaccine

  Vaccine - a drug intended to induce active artificial immunity against a pathogen. Vaccines may be live or dead. Live vaccines are usually attenuated versions of the wildtype pathogen, such as the MMR vaccines, which are strains of measles mumps andrubella viruses repeatedly passaged through cell lines until non-pathogenic. Typically, live vaccines need only be given as a single dose to induce a full immunological response, inducing specific memory. Dead vaccines are either killed whole parasite, as with the Salk polio strain and pertussis vaccine, or some highly immunogenic fraction of the parasite, as in toxoid vaccines. Killed vaccines and toxoids which do not multiply in the host must usually be administered in multiple doses to induce a full immunological response.

  Vaccination should be distinguished from passive immunization in which concentrated specific antibodies which can be used therapeutically to abrogate an ongoing infection or to provide short term protection (of the order of months), for example against hepatitis A. Passive immunization does not induce immunological memory.

• Vagina

  Vagina - the female organ of sexual intercourse; the birth canal.

• Vaginismus

  Vaginismus - a spasm of the muscles around the opening of the vagina, making penetration during sexual intercourse either impossible or very painful. Can be caused by physical or psychological conditions.

• Vaginitis

  Vaginitis - an inflammation of the vagina. Yeast, bacterial vaginosis, or trichomonas infections of the vagina. Frequent vaginitis may indicate the presence of pelvic adhesions and tubal blockage from other infections, such as chlamydia. Vaginitis may interfere with sperm penetration of the cervical mucus, and the symptoms may even interfere with the ability and desire to have intercourse.

• Vaginituis

  Vaginituis - inflammation of the vagina, which is typically caused by bacterial or yeast infections.

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV)

  Varicella-zoster virus - a herpes virus which causes chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes-zoster).

• Varicocele

  Varicocele - an abnormal dilation of the veins surrounding the testicles. They are present in 25% of infertile men. Because of this blood pooling, testicular temperature is raised which is detrimental to the sperm. Treatment is by minor surgery to ligate the dilated vessels or veins. The success of treatment is contraversial. Pregnancy rates after surgery are reported to be in the range of 30-50%.

• Vas deferens

  Vas deferens - the pair of thick-walled tubes through which the sperm move from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct in the prostate. These tubes are severed during a vasectomy performed for birth control.

• Vasectomy reversal

  Vasectomy reversal - surgical repair of a previous vasectomy for a man who wants to regain his fertility.

• Vasogram

  Vasogram - an X-ray study of the vas deferens.

• Vector

  Vector - the intermediate hosts of parasites with indirect life cycles. Anything which transmits parasites.

• Vectorial capacity

  Vectorial capacity - in vector-borne infections such as malaria, the vectorial capacity is a concept analogous to the contact rate in directly-transmitted diseases. It is, thus, a function of (a) the vector's density in relation to its vertebrate host, (b) the frequency with which it takes blood meals on the host species, (c) the duration of the latent period in the vector, and (d) the vector's life expectancy.

• Veneral disease (Sexually Transmitted Disease)

  Veneral disease - any infection that can be sexually transmitted, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, ureaplasma, and syphilis. Many of these diseases will interfere with fertility and some will cause severe illness.

• Vertical transmission

  Vertical transmission - occurs when a parent conveys an infection to its unborn offspring, as occurs in syphilis in man or in many arboviruses of arthropods. Perinatal infection is a special form of vertical transmission.

• Viable

  Viable - capable of sustaining life. Often used to describe an early pregnancy in which a heartbeat has been seen.

• Viraemia

  Viraemia - the presence of virus in the blood.

• Virion

  Virion - a mature and infectious virus particle.

• Virulence

  Virulence - the case mortality rate of an infection. The extent to which a pathogen harms its host. These are different usages: what they have in common is that they refer to the effect on an already infected host, not to the degree of transmissibility to a subsequent susceptible.

• Virus

  Virus - the causative agent of an infectious disease. Any of a large group of submicroscopic infective agents that are regarded either as extremely simple microorganisms or as extremely complex molecules, that typically contain a protein coat surrounding an RNA or DNA core of genetic material but no semipermeable membrane, that are capable of growth and multiplication only in living cells, and that cause various diseases in humans, lower animals, or plants.

  A microscopic infectious organism that reproduces inside living cells.

• Viscosity

  Viscosity - the thickness of semen.

• Vulva

  Vulva - female's external genitalia.

• VZV - Varicella-zoster virus.

  Varicella-zoster virus - a herpes virus which causes chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes-zoster).

• W
• WBC

  WBC - White Blood Cells.

• Womb (Uterus)

  Womb - a hollow muscular organ (as big as a small pear) present in the pelvis. It is connected to the vagina by the cervix and to the abdominal cavity by the fallopian tubes. Its main function is to contain and nourish the fertilized egg as it develops into an embryo, a fetus and eventually an infant. Its inside is lined by a thick layer of specialized glandular cells called the endometrium.

• Worm burden

  Worm burden - the number of worms an individual host carries. Sometimes directly measurable (Ascaris), sometimes only indirectly (schistosomiasis).

• X
• X Chromosome

  X Chromosome - the congenital, developmental, or genetic information in the cell that transmits the information necessary to make a female. All eggs contain one X chromosome, and half of all sperm carry an X chromosome. When two X chromosomes combine, the baby will be a girl.

• Y
• Y Chromosome

  Y Chromosome - the genetic material that transmits the information necessary to make a male. The Y chromosome can be found in one-half of the man's sperm cells. When an X and a Y chromosome combine, the baby will be a boy.

• Yeast (Candidiasis)

  Yeast - an infection that may be uncomfortable and itchy and may impair fertility.

• Z
• ZIFT (Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer)

  Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer - an ART in which eggs are removed from a woman's ovaries, fertilized with the man's sperm in a lab dish, and the resulting Zygotes are transferred into the woman's fallopian tubes during a minor surgical procedure.

• Zona pellucida

  Zona pellucida - the translucent belt consisting of a noncellular layer that is deposited at the periphery of the egg while it is in the ovary and continues to surround the egg and the conceptus until the stage of implantation, during which time the embryo "hatches" outside the zona pellucida.

• Zoonosis

  Zoonosis - a parasite naturally transmitted between man and other vertebrate species.

• Zygote

  Zygote - an egg that has been fertilized but not yet divided.

• Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)

  Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer - an ART in which eggs are removed from a woman's ovaries, fertilized with the man's sperm in a lab dish, and the resulting Zygotes are transferred into the woman's fallopian tubes during a minor surgical procedure.

• Source
• Abbreviated Medical Dictionary
• AllWords.com - Dictionary
• The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language
• BioTech's Life Science Dictionary
• Cambridge Dictionaries Online
• Dictionary.com
• A Dictionary of Scientific Quotations
• Dictionary Page
• Dirline Search
• Drkoop.com
• Drug/Device/Instrument Index
• Drug Information at Medportal.com
• On-line Medical Dictionary
• Fertilitext Glossary
• MEDLINE
• Health Care Information Resources
• http://www.duke.edu/
• InteliHealth: Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary
• List and Glossary of medical terms: English
• Macquarie Dictionary
• MedFacts SportsDoc
• Medical Dictionary Online
• MedicineNet.com
• MEDLINEplus: Dictionaries
• MEDLINEplus: Health Topics
• MEDLINEplus: Health Information
• MEDLINEplus: Drug Information
• MedTerms.com - Medical Dictionary
• MedTerms.com - Health and medical information
• THE MERCK MANUAL
• On-line Medical Dictionary
• On Line Medical Dictionaries and Journals
• Online scientific and medical dictionaries
• OneLook® Dictionaries
• Online Medical Dictionary Spell Checking Tool
• Open Directory - Health
• Reproductive Health Gateway
• Resource Central - Dictionaries
• Virtual Medical Center
• WebMD - Medical Encyclopedia
• The World Book Rush Medical Encyclopedia
• yourDictionary.com

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