Semen Count Test
Microscopic exam of ejaculated liquid to determine sperm number, shape and motility.
Anovulation
Inability to ovulate.
Endometrium Biopsy
Extraction of a small sample of endometrial tissue (internal lining of uterus) to be examined under the microscope. The results indicate whether the endometrium is at the adequate time to have a fertilized egg or embryo implanted.
Cervix
The narrow lower end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The uterine channel goes through the cervix and connects the vagina and the uterus. The cervix produces mucus which sperms have to travel across before entering the uterus and thence the fallopian tubes.
Luteum phase defect
This condition is present when the inner lining of uterus fails to mature adequately in response to progesterone produced by the ovary after ovulation.
Endometriosis
Presence of endometrial tissue in abnormal places, i.e. other than the uterus, such as ovaries, fallopian tubes, and abdominal cavity. Endometriosis may be associated with pelvic pain and infertility.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Assisted reproduction method involving the (surgical) suction of eggs from ovaries, which are combined with sperms in the laboratory. If fertilization takes place, the resulting embryo is transferred into the uterus.
Follicle
Liquid-filled cavity located just below the ovarian surface that contains an immature egg (oocyte.)
Hysteroscopy
Diagnostic procedure in which a viewing device bearing its own light source (hysteroscope) is inserted into the uterus through the cervix, so that the physician can view the interior of the uterus.
Hysterosalpingogram
Radiographic procedure whereby a special means of contrast (dye) is injected into the uterus to determine its inner contour and permeability of fallopian tubes.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
Hormone that triggers ovulation and stimulates corpora lutea to secrete progesterone.
Laparoscope
Thin viewing device bearing its own light source, equipped with a telescopic lens.
Laparoscopy
Diagnostic procedure whereby a surgeon inserts a laparoscope through a small incision just below the navel for the visual examination of the uterus, uterine ligaments, fallopian tubes, ovaries and abdominal organs. It may be necessary to perform other incisions to insert and handle additional instruments and facilitate diagnosis and treatment of pelvic disorders.
Micromanipulation
Set of procedures to manipulate eggs and sperms to assist fertilization.
Ovulation
Release of a mature egg from a follicle in the external layer of an ovary. Ovulation typically occurs in the 14th or 15th day of 28-day menstrual period, or 14 days before the first day of the following menstruation cycle.
Peritoneum
Lining of the abdominal cavity.
Progesterone
Female hormone secreted by the ovary during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone prepares the internal lining of the uterus for embryo implanting.
Basal Body Temperature (BBT)
Body temperature when resting. Mouth temperature is taken every morning, immediately after awakening, and a record is kept in a BBT sheet. Records are studied to identify ovulation, which takes place almost at the same time as the BBT increase.
Post-coital Test (PCT)
Microscopic analysis of a cervix mucus sample taken typically within 18 hours after sexual intercourse. This test determines the maturity of cervical mucus and the ability of sperms to enter and penetrate mucus.
Embryo transfer by egg donation
Transfer of a embryo resulting from the fertilization of a voluntary donor’s egg to an infertile receptor.
Gamete Inter Fallopian Transfer (GIFT)
Assisted reproduction method involving the surgical retrieval of eggs from the ovary which are then combined with sperms, with both gametes being immediately transferred into the fallopian tube. Fertilization takes place inside the fallopian tube.
Zygote Inter Fallopian Transfer (ZIFT)
Eggs are retrieved and fertilized and the resulting zygote is transferred into the fallopian tube.
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Glossary