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Bridge Opening HoursGlossary of Terms
Assisted Conception – Glossary of Terms
Here are some of the most commonly-used words, terms and acronyms...
A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P R S T U V W X Y Z
Abandoned Cycle:
An IVF cycle cancelled after drug administration has begun and before
egg collection.
Abortion:
Pregnancy lost before the fetus can survive independently.
Abortion, Threatened:
Spotting or bleeding that occurs early in pregnancy and which may
progress to spontaneous abortion.
Acrosome:
Cap-like structure that surrounds the sperm head and contains enzymes
that help penetration of the egg.
Acrosome Reaction:
Chemical changes that enable a sperm to penetrate an egg.
ACTH:
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the adrenal
glands. Excessive levels may lead to fertility problems.
Adhesion:
Scar tissue occurring in the abdominal cavity, fallopian tubes or inside
the uterus which can interfere with transport of the egg and implantation of
the embryo in the uterus.
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 suppression of LH and FSH production by the pituitary
gland.
Adrenal Gland:
A pair of hormone producing glands located above the kidneys.
Agglutination:
Clumping sperm together due to infection, inflammation or antibodies.
AID:
Artificial Insemination by Donor.
AIDS:
Acquired immune-deficiency syndrome; a fatal disease caused by HIV that
destroys the immune system’s ability to fight infection.
AIH:
Artifical Insemination by Husband.
Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP):
A blood test performed to evaluate the development of the fetus and to
look for fetal abnormalities.
Amenorrhea:
Refers to a woman who has never had a period.
Amenorrhea,
Secondary:
A term describing a woman who has menstruated at one time, but who has
not had a period for six months or more.
Amnicentesis:
A procedure which is usually carried out around 15-16 weeks of pregnancy. It involves aspirating a small amount
of the fluid which surround the baby in the womb. This fluid contains cells
from the baby which can then be cultured and tested to determine the baby's
chromosome. The procedure is usually performed under ultrasound scan using a
fine needle. The risk of causing miscarriage by this procedure is between 0.5 -
1%. The results often take two to three weeks.
Androgens:
Male sex hormones.
Andrologist:
A doctor or scientist who evaluates male fertility.
Anomaly:
Malformation or abnormality in any part of the baby.
Anorexia Nervosa:
A life-threatening eating disorder involving self-imposed starvation.
Severe weight loss and malnutrition from this disorder cause anovulation.
Anovulation:
The failure to ovulate; ovulatory failure.
Antibodies:
Chemicals made by the body to fight or attack foreign substances
entering the body which cause infertility when they attack the sperm or fetus.
Antigen:
An antigen is any substance capable of eliciting immune response.
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH):
AMH is a protein which, in humans, is encoded by the AMH gene. AMH is
structurally related to inhibin and activin and a member of the transforming
growth factor family. It is a dimeric glycoprotein that inhibits the
development of the Mullerian ducts in the male embryo.
Antisperm Antibodies:
Antisperm antibodies attach themselves to sperm and inhibit their
movement and their ability to fertilise.
Antral Follicle Count:
Transvaginal ultrasound method of combing the resting follicles foun on
the ovary at the beginning of a cycle.
Artificial Insemination (AI):
The introduction of sperm in the vagina near the cervix or directly into
the uterus with the use of a syringe and used to overcome sexual performance
problems, to circumvent sperm antibodies, to maximise the potential of poor
semen and for the use of donor sperm.
Artificial Insemination Donor (AID):
Artificial insemination with donor sperm using a fresh donor semen
specimen or a thawed frozen specimen.
Artificial Insemination Homologous
(AIH):
Artificial insemination with the husband's sperm which is washed and
injected directly into the wife's uterus (IAIH). Often used with poor semen or
to overcome sperm antibody problems.
Aspermia:
Absence of semen.
Aspiration Cycle:
An initiated ART cycle in which one or more follicles are punctured and
aspirated irrespective of whether or not oocytes are retrieved.
Assisted Hatching:
An in vitro procedure in which the zona pellucida of an embryo (usually
at eight-cell stage or a blastocyst) is perforated by chemical, mechanical or
laser-assisted methods to assist separation of the blastocyst from the zona
pellucida.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):
Procedures employed to achieve conception without sexual intercourse,
including IUI, GIFT and ZIFT.
Asthenozoospermia:
Low sperm motility.
Atresia:
Degeneration and resorption of a follicle before it reaches maturity and
ruptures.
Azoospermia:
Semen containing no sperm, either because the testicles cannot make
sperm or because of a blockage in the reproductive tract.
Basal Body
Temperature (BBT):
Body temperature when taken at its lowest point, usually in the morning
can be used to predict ovulation.
Basal Body
Temperature, Biphasic:
A basal body temperature pattern consistent with ovulation and the
formation of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone.
Basal Body
Temperature, Monophasic:
An anovulatory basal body temperature pattern where the temperature
remains relatively constant throughout the cycle.
Beta hCG Test:
A blood test used to detect very early pregnancies and to evaluate embryo
development.
Biochemical Pregnancy:
When the patient’s pregnancy test is positive but no pregnancy is
visible on ultrasound scan.
Bicornuate Uterus:
A congenital malformation of the uterus where the upper portion is
duplicated.
Biopsy:
The removal of a piece of tissue for microscopic examination.
Birth Defect:
Structural, functional or developmental abnormalities present at birth
or later in life, due to genetic or non-genetic factors acting before birth.
Blastocyst:
An embryo with a fluid-filled blastocele cavity which develops five to
six days after fertilization.
Blastocyst Transfer:
The transfer of one or more embryos at the blastocyst stage into the
uterine cavity.
Blighted Ovum (anembryonic pregnancy):
Fertilised egg that failed to develop properly after implantation.
Gestation sac develops in the absence of an embryo.
Bromocriptine (Parlodel):
An oral medication used to reduce prolactin levels and reduce the size
of a pituitary tumour when present.
Bulimia:
An eating disorder characterized by voracious eating followed by forced
vomiting. The resulting weight loss and malnutrition may cause anovulation.
Buserelin:
A long-acting GnRH available as a nasal spray and used in IVF. It can
also be used to treat fibroid tumours and PMS.
Cancelled Cycle:
A treatment cycle in which ovarian stimulation or monitoring has been
carried out with the intent of undergoing fertility treatment but which did not
proceed to follicular aspiration or, in the case of a thawed embryo, to
transfer.
Capacitation:
A process that sperm undergo during travel through the woman's
reproductive tract. Capacitation enables the sperm to penetrate the egg.
Cauterize:
To burn tissue with electrical current or with a laser. Used in surgical
procedures to remove adhesions and endometrial implants.
Cervical Cerclage:
A procedure in which a stitch or two is put around the cervix to prevent
its opening until removed when a pregnancy is to term.
Cervical Mucus:
A viscous fluid at the opening of the cervix which prevents sperm and
bacteria from entering the womb. At mid-cycle and under the influence of
estrogen, the mucus becomes thinner, allowing sperm to pass into the womb. See
also Cervix
Cervical Smear:
A sample of cervical mucus examined microscopically to assess the
presence of estrogen and white blood cells, indicating possible infection.
Cervical Stenosis:
A blockage of the cervical canal due to a congenital defect or
complications of surgical procedures.
Cervicitis:
Inflammation of the cervix.
Cervix:
The opening between the uterus and the vagina. The cervix remains closed
during pregnancy and dilates during labour to allow the baby to be born.
Cervix, Incompetent:
A weakened cervix, which opens up prematurely during pregnancy and can
cause the loss of the fetus.
Chemotherapy:
The use of anticancer drugs to treat or control cancer.
Chlamydia:
A sexually transmitted disease. A common cause of pelvic infection and
subsequent tubal damage and infertility.
Chocolate Cyst:
A cyst in the ovary filled with old blood which is usually treated with
laparoscopy.
Chromosomes:
The structures in the cell that carry the genes. The human has forty-six
chromosomes, twenty-three female and twenty-three male.
Chronic villus sampling (CVS):
A procedure which involves taking a biopsy from the placenta to test the
fetus for genetic abnormalities. It is usually carried out under ultrasound
scan at about eleven weeks of pregnancy. The placenta has the same genetic
make-up as the baby. There is a 2-3% risk of the procedure causing miscarriage.
Cilia:
Tiny hairlike projections on the inside of the fallopian tubes which
move the egg towards the uterus.
Clinical Pregnancy:
Evidence of pregnancy by clinical or ultrasound parameters. It includes
ectopic pregnancy. Multiple gestational sacs in one patient are counted as one
clinical pregnancy.
Clinical Pregnancy
Rate:
The number of clinical pregnancies manually expressed as 100 initiated
cycles or embryo transfers. When clinical pregnancy rates are shown, the
denominator must be specified.
Clitoris:
The small sex organ of the female which contains large numbers of
sensory nerves.
Clomiphene (Clomid, Serophene):
A fertility drug that stimulates ovulation through the release of
gonadotropins from the pituitary gland."
Clone:
A group of embryos or individuals that are genetically identical.
Coitus:
Intercourse; the sexual union between a man and a woman.
Conception:
See Fertilization.
Conceptus:
The early products of conception; the embryo and placenta.
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 eliminating
the woman’s contact with the husband's sperm to reduce antibody levels.
Cone Biopsy:
A surgical procedure used to remove precancerous cells from the cervix.
Congenital:
A defect existing since birth.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia:
A congenital condition characterized by elevated androgens which
suppress the pituitary gland and interfere with spermatogenesis or ovulation.
Contraception:
A congenital condition characterized by elevated androgens which
suppress the pituitary gland and interfere with spermatogenesis or ovulation.
Contraceptive, Oral:
A medication that prevents ovulation and pregnancy which can make a
small percentage of women become anovulatory when they stop taking it. The Pill
can also disguise fertility problems – such as irregular cycles or
endometriosis.
Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH):
Medical treatment to induce the development of multiple ovarian
follicles to obtain multiple eggs during follicular aspiration.
Cornua:
The horns of the uterus where the fallopian tubes join the uterine
cavity.
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.
Cryopreservation:
The freezing and storage of sperm, eggs and embryos.
Cryptorchidism:
Failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum.
Cumulus Oophorus:
The protective layer of cells surrounding the egg.
Cushing's Syndrome:
A condition characterized by an overproduction of adrenal gland
secretions causing high blood pressure and water retention and pituitary output
of LH and FSH. This results in low sperm production or ovulatory failure.
Cyst:
Sac filled with fluid.
Cystic Fibrosis:
A common genetic disease. If both partners carry the gene, there is a
25% chance that the child will have the disease. This is unpleasant and there
is currently no cure. It affects the lungs, bowels, pancreas, sweat glands etc.
Cytokines:
Cytokines are messenger molecules produced by lymphocytes. They
communicate with other cells of the immune system and recruit them to fight off
infection or reject foreign tissue from the body.
Cytomegalovirus infection:
Infection caused by cytomegalovirus. Primary infection of the mother
during pregnancy may result in the death of the fetus or serious generalised
disease of the newborn. More commonly, congenital infection follows a benign
course though about 10% of affected children may subsequently be mentally
retarded.
Cytotoxic:
Cytotoxic refers to a toxic effect on cells.
D&C (Dilation and Curettage):
A procedure used to dilate the cervical canal and scrape out the lining
and contents of the uterus used to diagnose or treat the cause of abnormal
bleeding and to terminate an unwanted pregnancy.
Danazol (danocrine):
A medication used to treat endometriosis by suppressing LH and FSH
production.
Delivery Rate:
The number of deliveries expressed per 100 initiated cycles, aspiration
cycles or embryo transfer cycles including deliveries that resulted in a live
birth and/or stillbirth. The delivery of a multiple pregnancy is registered as
one delivery.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy:
The insertion of a fibre optic telescope into the abdomen to look for
abnormalities of the internal pelvic organs.
Dilator:
An instrument used to enlarge a small opening.
DIPI:
Direct intraperitoneal insemination. This is the injection of washed and
prepared sperm into the peritoneal cavity under ultrasound guidance.
Dizygotic:
Derived from two. Dizygotic twins were two separate eggs fertilised by
separate sperm.
DNA:
A nucleic acid that carries the genetic information in the cell and is
capable of self-replication and synthesis of RNA. DNA consists of two long
chains of nucleotides twisted into a double helix and joined by hydrogen bonds.
Donor Insemination:
The insemination of donor sperm into the vagina, the cervix, the womb,
the tube or peritoneum.
DOT:
Direct Oocyte (egg) Transfer into the uterus.
Down Regulation:
Suppression of the natural secretion of gonadotropins by using GnRh
analogues.
Down’s Syndrome:
A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21.
Doxycycline:
An antibiotic that inhibits many of the microorganisms infecting the
reproductive tract which is used for treating ureaplasma infections.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy:
An inherited sex-linked muscular disease.
Dysfunctional:
Abnormal function.
Dysmenorrhea:
Painful menstruation which may be a sign of endometriosis.
Dyspareunia:
Painful coitus for either the man or the woman.
Early Neoneonatal Death:
A death occurring within the first seven days after delivery.
Ectopic Pregnancy:
A pregnancy outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube which
cannot be sustained. Methotrexate can be used to dissolve the pregnancy without
causing major damage to the tube.
Egg Collection:
A procedure used to obtain eggs from ovarian follicles for use in IVF.
The procedure is performed during laparoscopy or by using a long needle and
ultrasound to locate the follicle in the ovary.
Egg Donor:
A woman who donates her eggs.
Egg Recipient:
A woman who receives embryos created with donor eggs.
Ejaculate:
The semen and sperm expelled during ejaculation.
Ejaculation:
The physiological process by which the semen is propelled from the
testicles, through the reproductive tract and out of the penis.
Ejaculatory Ducts:
A pair of ducts, each formed by the joining of a seminal vesicle with a
vas deferens.
Embryo:
The early product of conception.
Embryo Donor:
A couple who donate their spare embryos to either infertile couples or
for research purposes.
Embryo Recipient:
A woman who receives one or more embryos into the uterine cavity.
Embryo Transfer
Placing an egg fertilised outside the womb into a woman's uterus or
fallopian tube.
Empty Sella Syndrome:
A condition that occurs when spinal fluid leaks into the chamber housing
the pituitary gland which may adversely affect the ability to secrete LH and
FSH.
Endometrial Biopsy:
A procedure during which a sample of the uterine lining is collected for
microscopic analysis to confirm ovulation and the proper preparation of the
endometrium by estrogen and progesterone stimulation.
Endometriosis:
The presence of small implants of endometrial tissue outside the uterus
in abnormal locations.
Endometrium:
The 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 which may contribute to stress-related fertility problems.
Epididymis:
A tubular organ attached to the testicle where developing sperm complete
their maturation.
Epididymitis:
Inflammation of the epididymis.
Erection:
The process during which the erectile tissue of the penis becomes
engorged with blood, causing the penis to swell and become rigid.
Estradiol:
The female hormone produced in the ovary which 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 necessary for the release
of the ovum from the follicle from the pituitary gland.
Estrogens:
The female sex hormones, a group of hormones that are produced mainly by
the ovaries. They are essential for normal sexual developments and for the
reproductive system.
Fallopian Tubes:
The ducts through which eggs travel to the uterus once released from the
follicle andthe site at which fertilisation usually occurs.
Female Kallman's Syndrome:
A condition characterised by early sexual development and the inability
to produce LH and FSH.
Ferning:
A pattern characteristic of dried cervical mucus viewed on a slide which
appears when the mucus has been thinned and prepared by estrogen for the
passage of sperm.
Fertility Specialist:
A doctor specialising in the practice of fertility.
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.
Fertility Workup:
The initial medical examinations and tests performed to diagnose or
narrow down the cause of fertility problems.
Fertilisation:
The combining of the genetic material carried by sperm and egg to create
an embryo. Normally occurs inside the fallopian tube (in vivo) but also occurs
in IVF in a petri dish.
Fetus:
A term used to refer to a baby during the period of gestation between
eight weeks and term.
Fibroids:
A benign tumor of the uterine muscle and connective tissue.
Fimbria:
The opening of the fallopian tube near the ovary with fingerlike ends
which grasp the ovary and coax the egg into the tube.
Flow cytometry:
A method of sperm sorting used for sex selection. X and Y chromosome
bearing sperm are stained with different fluorescent dyes and then can be
sorted by colour.
Follicles:
Fluid-filled sacs in the ovary which contain the eggs released at
ovulation.
Follicular Fluid:
The fluid inside the follicle that cushions and nourishes the ovum.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH):
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.
Follicular Phase:
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.
Frigidity:
The inability to become sexually aroused.
FSH:
Follicle stimulating hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland. It
stimulates the growth of follicles in the female and sperm production in the
male.
Full-term Birth:
A birth that takes place at 37 or more completed weeks of gestational
age.
Fundus:
The upper region of the uterus. The fallopian tube opens into the
opposite corners of the fundus.
Galactorrhoea:
Abnormal milk secretion from the breasts.
Gamete:
A reproductive cell:Sperm in men, the egg in women.
Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT):
A technique that may be used in lieu of IVF for women with patent tubes.
After egg retrieval the eggs are mixed with the husband's sperm and then injected
through the fimbria into the woman's fallopian tubes for IVF.
Gene:
The unit of inheritance. Everyone inherits two copies of each gene. One
from the father, one from the mother.
Genome:
The basic sets of genes in a chromosome.
Genitals:
The external sex organs, as the labia and clitoris in the woman and the
penis and testicles in the man. Also called genitalia.
Germ Cell:
In the male the testicular cell that divides to produce 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.
Gestational Carrier:
The age of an embryo or fetus calculated by adding 2 weeks to the number
of completed weeks since fertilization.
Gestational Sac:
A fluid-filled structure containing an embryo that develops early in
pregnancy usually within the uterus.
GIFT:
Gamete Intra-Fallopian Transfer.
GnRh:
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, a hormone secreted by the hypothalamus.
It stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH. GnRh preparation are
produced synthetically.
Gonadotropins:
The Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Lutenizing Hormone (LH) which
control reproductive function.
Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH):
A substance secreted by the hypothalamus which enables the pituitary to
secrete LH and FSH, which stimulate the gonads.
Gonad:
The gland that makes reproductive cells and sex hormones i.e. the
testicles, which make sperm and testosterone, and the ovaries, which make eggs
(ova) and estrogen.
Gonal F:
A recombinant human follicular stimulating hormone, known as a
‘fertility drug’.
Gonorrhea:
An infection that is usually asymptomatic and may cause tubal blockage,
impair sperm and prevent pregnancy.
Habitual Abortion:
Repeat miscarriages.
Haemophilia:
A sex-linked inherited blood disease found almost exclusively in men. It
is characterised by delayed blood clotting and difficulty in controlling
haemorrhage, even after minor injury.
Hatching:
The process that precedes implantation by which an embryo at the
blastocyst stage separates from the zona pellucida.
Hepatitis B and C:
Viruses that may be transmitted sexually or by blood and can cause
infection of the liver which can lead to jaundice or liver failure.
Hereditary:
A disease transmitted from one’s ancestors.
Heterozygous:
Having two different alleles of a particular gene.
HFEA:
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority.
Hirsutism:
Abnormal or excessive hair growth in the body and face.
HIV:
The Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that causes Acquired
Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Homozygous:
Having two of the same alleles of a particular gene.
Hormones:
Chemical substances secreted by endocrine glands, to regulate activities
of certain cells and organs.
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 (see Surrogate).
Hostile Mucus:
Cervical mucus that impedes the natural progress of sperm through the
cervical canal.
HRT:
Hormone Replacement Treatment.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG):
The hormone produced in early pregnancy which keeps the corpus luteum
producing progesterone. Also used to trigger ovulation and to stimulate
testosterone production.
Human
Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG):
A combination of FSH and LH, which is extracted from the urine of
post-menopausal women and used to induce ovulation in fertility treatment.
Humegon:
The lutenizing and follicle-stimulating hormones recovered from the
urine of post-menopausal women. Used to stimulate multiple ovulation in
fertility treatment.
Huntongton’s Disease:
An inherited sex-linked nervous disease that develops in adulthood and
leads to a state of detiorated mentality.
Hyperprolactinemia:
A condition in which the pituitary gland secretes too much prolactin.
Prolactin can suppress LH and FSH production, reduce sex drive in the man, and
directly suppress ovarian function in the woman.
Hyperthyroidism:
Overproduction of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland which reduces
estrogen levels too rapidly and interferes with ovulation.
Hypoestrogenic:
Having lower than normal levels of estrogen.
Hypogonadotropic Hypopituitarism:
A spectrum of diseases resulting in low pituitary gland output of LH and
FSH. Men with this disorder have low sperm counts. Women do not ovulate.
Hyposalpinx:
A blocked, dilated and fluid-filled fallopian tube.
Hypospermatogenesis:
Low sperm production.
Hypothalamus:
A part of the brain located adjacent to and above the pituitary gland
which regulates the hormones. In both the man and the woman this tissue
secretes GnRH every ninety minutes or so. The pulsatile GnRH enables the pituitary
gland to secrete LH and FSH, which stimulate the gonads.
Hypothyroidism:
A condition in which the thyroid gland produces an insufficient amount
of thyroid hormone causing a lower sex drive and elevated prolactin in men.
Women suffer from elevated prolactin and estrogen, both of which interfere with
fertility.
Hysterectomy:
The surgical removal of the uterus. May also include the removal of
other reproductive structures such as the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):
An x-ray of the pelvic organs in which a special dye is injected through
the cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for malformations of
the uterus and blockage of the fallopian tubes.
Hysteroscopy:
A procedure in which the doctor checks for uterine abnormalities by
inserting a fiber-optic device. Minor surgical repairs can be executed during
the procedure.
ICSI:
See also Intracytoplasmic Sperm
Injection
Idiopathic:
No causes found.
Immature Sperm (Germinal Cell):
A sperm that has not matured and gained the ability to swim.
Immunoglobulin:
Also called antibodies, produced by B lymphocytes to bind to foreign
antigens.
Implantation (Embryo):
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.
Impotence:
The inability of the man to have an erection and to ejaculate.
Infertility:
Inability of a couple to achieve a pregnancy after one year of
unprotected intercourse.
Initiated Cycles:
Treatment cycles in which the woman receives ovarian stimulation or
monitoring, irrespective of whether or not follicular aspiration was attempted.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
(ICSI):
A micromanipulation procedure where a single sperm is injected into the
egg to enable fertilisation in cases where there are very low sperm counts or
non-motile sperm.
Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI):
Insemination of washed and prepared sperm into the uterus.
In Vitro Fertilisation
(IVF):
Literally means "in glass." Fertilisation takes place outside
the body in a small glass dish.
Infertility:
The inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse or the
inability to carry a pregnancy to term.
Inhibin:
A male feedback hormone made in the testicles to regulate FSH production
by the pituitary gland.
Inhibin-F (Folliculostatin):
A female feedback hormone made in the ovary to regulate FSH production
by the pituitary gland.
IUD (Intrauterine Device):
A device placed into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Kallman's Syndrome:
A congenital hypothalamus dysfunction which has multiple symptoms
including the failure to complete puberty.
Karyotype:
A complete set of human chromosomes.
Karyotyping:
A test performed to analyse chromosomes for the presence of genetic
defects.
Klinefelter's Syndrome:
A genetic abnormality characterised by having one Y (male) and two X
(female) chromosomes. May cause fertility problems.
Laparoscope:
A small telescope that can be inserted into a hole in the abdominal wall
for viewing the internal organs and to perform a laparoscopy for diagnosis and
treatment of a number of fertility problems including endometriosis, abdominal
adhesions and polycystic ovaries. Also used in egg retrieval for IVF.
Laparoscopy:
Examination of the pelvic region by using a small telescope called a
laparoscope.
Laparotomy:
Major abdominal surgery for the correction of reproductive organ
abnormalities such as tubal repairs and the removal of adhesions and fertility
restoration.
Leiomyomata:
See Fibroid.
Leydig Cell:
The testicular cell that produces testosterone, the male hormone. The
Leydig cell is stimulated by LH from the pituitary gland.
Live Birth:
A birth in which a fetus is delivered with signs of life after complete
expulsion or extraction from its mother, beyond 20 completed weeks of
gestational age.
Live Birth Delivery Rate:
The number of live birth deliveries expressed per 100 initiated cycles, aspiration
cycles or embryo transfer cycles. When delivery rates are given, the
denominator (initiated, aspirated, or embryo transfer cycles) must be
specified. The delivery of a singleton, twin, or other multiple birth is
registered as one delivery.
Liquefaction:
The process by which ejaculate turns from a jelly-like consistency to
liquid.
Luteal Phase:
Post-ovulatory phase of a woman's cycle. The corpus luteum produces
progesterone, which causes the uterine lining to thicken to support the
implantation and growth of the embryo.
Luteal Phase Defect (or deficiency) (LPD):
A 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 early miscarriage.
Luteinized Unruptured Follicle (LUF) Syndrome:
A condition in which the follicle develops and changes into the corpus
luteum without releasing the egg.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH):
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.
Luteinizing Hormone Surge (LH SURGE):
The release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature
egg from the follicle. Ovulation test kits can be used to detect the sudden
increase of LH, signaling that ovulation is about to occur (usually within
24-36 hours).
Malformation Rate:
Includes all structural, functional, genetic and chromosomal
abnormalities identified in aborted tissue or diagnosed before or after birth.
MAR:
Mixed Agglutination Reaction, a test to check for the presence or
absence of antisperm antibodies.
Masturbation:
Manual stimulation of the penis leading to ejaculation - a technique used
to collect semen for analysis and for artificial insemination.
Maturation Arrest:
A testicular condition in which all sperm development halts throughout
all testicular tubules. May result in oligospermia or azoospermia.
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 and eggs each contain twenty-three chromosomes so,
when fertilisation takes place, the baby will have a normal complement of
forty-six.
Menarche:
A girl’s first period.
Menogon:
A fertility drug given by injection and consists of FSH and LH.
Menopause:
A condition when the ovaries ran out of eggs. It is usually
characterised by absence of periods, hot flushes, sweating and mood changes.
The usual age for menopause is around 52.
Menorrhagia:
Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow.
Menstruation:
The cyclical shedding of the uterine lining in response to stimulation
from estrogen and progesterone.
Menstrual cycle:
A series of cyclical changes that occur in the female genital system
each month.
Metrodine (Pure FSH):
An injectable form of Follicle Stimulating Hormone used to stimulate
ovulation.
Micromanipulation:
The use of special micromanipulative technology that allows operative
procedures to be performed on the oocyte, sperm or embryo.
Microsurgical Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA):
A procedure in which spermatozoa are obtained from the epididymis by
either aspiration or surgical excision.
Miscarriage:
The spontaneous loss of an embryo or fetus from the womb.
Mitosis:
The division of a cell into two identical cells in which all forty-six
human chromosomes are duplicated.
Mittleschmerz:
The discomfort felt on one side of the lower abdomen at the time of
ovulation.
Monozygotic:
Means single. In monozygotic twins one fertilised egg separates into two
identical zygotes.
Morula:
The fertilised egg after a few days of development when it forms a ball
of cells.
Motility:
The percentages of all moving sperm in a semen sample.
Multiple Birth:
Birth of more than one baby from a pregnancy.
Mycoplasma:
See Ureaplasma.
Myomectomy:
Surgery performed to remove fibroid tumors.
Myometrium:
The middle muscular layer of the womb.
Necrozoospermia:
All sperm in the ejaculate are dead.
Neonatal Death:
A death within 28 days of birth.
Normegon:
A fertility drug given by injection. It consists of FSH and LH.
Nucleus:
The part of the cell that contains the genetic material DNA.
OATS:
Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OATS) means low sperm count, low motility
and a high proportion of abnormal sperm.
OHSS
(Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome):
A potentially life-threatening side-effect of Pergonal ovulation
induction treatment which arises when too many follicles develop and hCG is
given to release the eggs. May be prevented by withholding the hCG injection.
Oligomenorrhea:
Infrequent menstrual periods.
Oligozoospermia:
A low sperm count (below 20 million) which is low enough to cause a
fertility problem.
Oligoovulation:
Infrequent ovulation.
Oocyte Donation:
A fertility treatment procedure performed with third-party oocytes.
Oophorectomy:
The surgical removal of one or both ovaries.
Orgafol:
A fertility drug given by injection. It consists of highly purified FSH.
Orgasm:
The psychological and physical sensation that accompanies sexual climax.
Ovaries:
The two female sex glands which produce eggs and hormones.
Ovarian Cyst:
A fluid-filled sac inside the ovary often found in conjunction with
ovulation disorders, tumors of the ovary, and endometriosis.
Ovarian Failure:
The failure of the ovary, diagnosed by elevated FSH in the blood, to
respond to FSH stimulation from the pituitary because of damage to or
malformation of the ovary.
Ovulation:
The release of the egg from the ovarian follicle.
Ovulation Induction:
Medical treatment performed to initiate ovulation.
Ovulatory Cycle:
A series of cyclical changes that occur within the ovary each month and
result in the release of an egg.
Ovulatory Failure (Anovulation):
The failure to ovulate.
Ovum:
The egg; the reproductive cell from the ovary; the female gamete.
Ovum Induction:
The use of fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation if the woman is not
producing eggs properly. The aim is to restore physiological ovulation (single
follicle). The aim of superovulation is to override and stimulate multiple
follicle development.
Panbypopituitarism:
Total pituitary gland failure.
Patent:
The condition of being ‘open’, as with tubes that form part of the
reproductive organs.
PCT:
Post-coital test, a microscopic examination of a woman’s cervical mucus
after intercourse to check the number and motility of sperm in the mucus.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):
An infection of the pelvic organs that causes severe illness and extreme
pain which may lead to tubal blockage and pelvic adhesions.
Penile Implant:
A device surgically inserted into the penis to provide rigidity for
intercourse.
Penis:
The male organ that becomes enlarged and erect for the purpose of
depositing semen in the woman's vagina.
Pergonal (HMG):
A medication used to replace the pituitary hormones, LH and FSH
frequently used with women who do not produce estrogen because of a pituitary
gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm
production.
Pergoveris:
A fertility drug given by injection. It contains 150 IU recombinant FSH
and 75 IU recombinant LH.
Perinatal Death Rate:
The number of stillbirths and first week deaths per 1,000
delivered.
PESA:
Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration. This involves retrieving sperm
directly from the epididymis using a needle.
Petri Dish:
A shallow glass or plastic cylindrical lidded dish that embryologists use to fertilise eggs with sperm
and also used by biologists to culture cells. It is named after German bacteriologist, Julius Richard Petri.
Pituitary Gland:
The master 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:
The embryonic tissue that invades the uterine wall and provides a
mechanism for exchanging the baby's waste products for the mother's nutrients
and oxygen. The baby is connected to the placenta by the umbilical cord.
Polar Body:
The discarded genetic material resulting from female germ cell division.
Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome (PCOS):
A condition found in women who don't ovulate, characterised by excessive
production of androgens and the presence of cysts in the ovaries. Though PCOS
can be without symptoms, some cases include weight gain, acne and excessive
hair growth.
Polyp:
A small growth, usually benign, protruding from the endometrium and
dangle into the cavity of the womb. It may interfere with embryo implantation
by acting like a coil. Polyps are usually removed surgically.
Post Coital Test (PCT):
A microscopic examination of the cervical mucus best performed twelve or
more hours after intercourse to determine compatibility between the woman's
mucus and the man's semen and used to detect sperm-mucus interaction problems,
the presence of sperm antibodies and the quality of the cervical mucus.
Post-testicular System:
The ducts that store and deliver the sperm to the opening of the penis,
including the glands that produce seminal fluids.
Preclinical Abortion:
An abortion that takes place before clinical or ultrasound evidence of
pregnancy.
Preclinical Pregnancy:
Evidence of conception based only on biochemical data in serum or urine
before ultrasound evidence of a gestational sac.
Pregnancy rate per cycle:
The number of pregnancies achieved from every 100 treatment cycle
commenced.
Pregnyl:
A fertility drug given by injection and consists of human chorionic
gonadotropin.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD):
The screening of cells from preimplantation embryos for the detection of
genetic and/or chromosomal disorders before embryo transfer.
Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS):
A technique used to examine the embryo for aneuploidy (wrong number of
chromosomes) and only transfer normal embryos.
Preterm Birth:
A birth that takes place after at least 20, but less than 37, completed
weeks of gestation. This includes both live births and stillbirths.
Premature Menopause:
A condition in which menopause occurs before the age of 40. It affects
approximately 1% of women. In most cases there is no identifiable cause. The
only effective treatment for infertility is IVF with donated eggs.
Premature Ovarian Failure:
A condition where the ovary runs out of follicles before the normal age
associated with menopause.
Pretesticular System:
The male hormonal system responsible for stimulating sperm production
and the development of male secondary sex characteristics.
Progesterone:
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 fertilised egg.
Profasi:
A fertility drug given by injection and consists of human chorionic
gonadotropin.
Progesterone:
A hormone secreted by the corpus luteum in the second half of the
menstrual cycle to stimulate the endometrium and prepare it for implantation
and maintain it should pregnancy occur. Progesterone is produced in large quantities by the placenta.
Progesterone Withdrawal:
A diagnostic procedure used to analyse menstrual irregularity and amenorrhea
– prior to ovulation induction therapy, progesterone withdrawal may be
used to induce a menstrual period.
Prolactin:
The hormone that stimulates the production of milk in breastfeeding
women – excessive levels when not breastfeeding may result in
infertility.
Pronucleate Stage:
An early stage of fertilisation when the sperm and egg pronuclei are
visible under the microscope.
Prostaglandin:
A hormone secreted by the uterine lining. It is possible that
prostaglandins secreted by active, young endometrial implants may interfere
with the reproductive organs by causing muscular contractions or spasms.
Prostap:
A long-acting GnRh agonist drug used to induce pituitary
down-regulation.
Prostate Gland:
A gland in the male reproductive system that produces a portion of the
semen including a chemical that liquefies the coagulated semen.
Prostatitis:
Inflammation of the prostate gland usually as a result of infection.
Puberty:
The time of life when the body starts to produce adult levels of sex hormones
- (estrogen or testosterone) and adult body characteristics develop.
Puregon:
A recombinant follicle stimulating hormone fertility drug.
PZD:
Partial Zona Dissection, a micromanipulation procedure to help sperm
penetrate the zona pellucida.
Radiotherapy:
The use of radiation and radioactive substances to treat cancer.
Recipient:
The woman who receives an oocyte or an embryo from another woman.
Recto electro-ejaculation:
A technique used to obtain an ejaculate from spinal injured or otherwise
impotent men, where a spinal probe is inserted into the rectum to stimulate the
seminal vesicles.
Resistant Ovary:
An ovary that cannot respond to FSH stimulation.
Rubella:
Also called ‘German Measles’, it is caused by an infectious virus and is
characterised by general rashes and swollen glands. If infection occurs during
the first few months of pregnancy, it may cause severe congenital
abnormalities.
Salpingectomy:
Surgical removal of the fallopian tube.
Salpingitis:
Inflammation of the fallopian tubes caused by infection.
Salpingolysis:
Surgery performed to remove adhesions that restrict the movement and
function of reproductive organs.
Salpingostomy:
Surgical repair of the fallopian tubes.
Scrotum:
The bag of skin and muscle surrounding the man's testicles.
Secondary Infertility:
The inability of a couple which has successfully achieved pregnancy to
achieve another, including couples for whom the pregnancy did not go to term.
Selective Fetal Reduction:
The process in which one or more normal fetus in a normal in a multiple
pregnancy are destroyed.
Semen:
The fluid portion of the ejaculate consisting of secretions from the
seminal vesicles, prostate gland and several other glands in the male
reproductive tract which provides nourishment and protection for the sperm and
a medium in which the sperm can travel to the woman's vagina.
Semen Analysis:
A laboratory test used to assess semen quality, sperm quantity,
concentration, morphology, and motility.
Semen Viscosity:
The liquid flow or consistency of the semen.
Seminal Fluid (semen):
The milky fluid that is ejaculated at orgasm. It contains fluid from the
seminal vesicles, the prostate and the bulbourethral glands, in addition to
sperm.
Seminal Plasma:
Fluid in which the sperm is ejaculated.
Seminal Vesicles:
Glands in the male reproductive system which produce much of the semen
volume, including fructose for nourishing the sperm.
Seminiferous Tubes:
The testicular tubules in which the sperm mature and move toward the
epididymis.
Septate Uterus:
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:
A wall that divides a
cavity in half, such as the uterine septum.
Sertoli Cell:
A testicular cell responsible for nurturing the spermatids (immature
sperm). Secretes inhibin, a feedback hormone, which regulates FSH production by
the pituitary gland.
Sexually Transmitted Disease:
Also known as ‘venereal disease’ – any disease transmitted by
sexual intercourse such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Sheehan's Syndrome:
A condition caused by profuse hemorrhage at the time of delivery.
Short Luted Phase:
A condition frequently found with women undergoing ovulation induction
treatment in which the corpus luteum deteriorates prematurely, causing the
menstrual period to begin approximately ten days (instead of fourteen) after
ovulation.
Sonogram (Ultrasound):
Use of high-frequency sound waves to create an image of internal body
parts and to detect and count follicle growth in fertility treatment. Also used
to detect and monitor pregnancy.
Sperm:
The male reproductive cell that carries the male’s genetic information
to the female's egg.
Spermatid:
An immature sperm cell.
Sperm Agglutination:
Sperm clumping caused by antibody reactions or by infection.
Sperm Antibodies:
Antibodies that attack and maim sperm formed by either the man against
his own sperm or by the woman against her husband's sperm.
Sperm Bank:
A place where sperm are kept frozen in liquid nitrogen for use in
fertility treatment.
Sperm Count:
The number of sperm in the ejaculate and given as the number of sperm
per millilitre.
Sperm Capacitation:
The chemical changes in the sperm that increase its ability to penetrate
and fertilise and egg.
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:
A semen analysis factor that indicates the number or percentage of sperm
in the sample that appear to have been formed normally.
Sperm Motility:
The ability of sperm to swim. Poor motility means the sperm have a
difficult time reaching the egg.
Sperm Penetration:
The ability of a sperm to penetrate the egg so it can deposit the
genetic material during fertilisation.
Spermatogenesis:
Sperm production in the testicles.
Spinnbarkeit:
The stretchability of cervical mucus; the stringy quality that occurs at
midcycle under the influence of estrogen.
Split Ejaculate:
A method used to concentrate the sperm for insemination; separating the
semen into two portions – the first portion, which is rich in sperm and
the second which mostly contains seminal fluid.
Stein-Leventhal Disease:
Another name for polycystic ovaries.
Sterilisation:
An irreversible condition that prevents conception.
Stillbirth:
The death of a fetus between the twentieth week of gestation and birth.
Stimulated Cycle:
A treatment cycle in which fertility drugs are used to produce more eggs
than usual in the woman’s monthly cycle.
Subfertility:
Term used to describe any impairment of fertility without implying
permanent infertility.
Superovulation:
Stimulation of multiple ovulation with fertility drugs; also known as
controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH).
Surgical Sperm Retrieval:
The retrieval of sperm from the epididymis or testis, this technique
must be used in con junction with ICSI as the sperm retrieved by this technique
are incapable of fertilisation by themselves.
Surrogate Mother:
A woman who is artificially inseminated and carries to term a baby which
will be raised by its genetic father and his partner.
SUZI:
Subzonal insemination – where a single sperm is injected under the
zona of an egg.
Swim-up:
The technique for separating sperm based on their ability to swim
through a culture medium.
Syphilis:
A venereal disease caused by spirochete. Acquired infection is
transmitted by sexual contact. Congenital infection comes from a mother who has
been infected during or shortly before pregnancy.
TESE:
Testicular Sperm Extraction – involves retrieving sperm directly
from the testis.
TESA:
Testicular Sperm Aspiration – procedure in which spermatozoa are
obtained directly from the testicle either by aspiration or surgical excision
of testicular tissue.
Testicular Biopsy:
A minor surgical procedure which takes a small sample of testicular
tissue for microscopic examination to diagnose male fertility problems.
Testicular Enzyme Defect:
A congenital enzyme defect that prevents the testes from responding to
hormonal stimulation resulting in oligospermia or azoospermia.
Testicular Failure, Primary:
A congenital, developmental, or genetic error resulting in a testicular
malformation that prevents sperm production.
Testicular Failure, Secondary:
Acquired testicular damage - for example, from drugs, prolonged exposure
to toxic substances or a varicocoele.
Testicular Function:
The ability of the testicles to produce sperm and testosterone.
Testicular Stress Pattern:
A semen analysis result showing depressed sperm production, poor sperm
motility, and poor sperm morphology consistent with secondary testicular
failure or illness.
Testis (testicle):
Male gonad which produces both sperm and male hormones.
Testosterone:
The male hormone necessary for spermatogenesis and responsible for the
formation of secondary sex characteristics and for supporting the sex drive.
TET:
Tubal Embryo Transfer.
Thyroid Gland:
The endocrine gland in the front of the neck that produces thyroid
hormones to regulate the body's metabolism.
Torsion:
The twisting of the testis inside the scrotum, cutting off the blood
supply and causing severe damage to the testicle. Torsion of the ovary may also
occur in a woman suffering from hyperstimulation, a complication resulting from
ovulation induction treatment.
Triptorelin:
A long-acting GnRh agonist drug to induce pituitary down-regulation.
Trisomy:
The presence of three chromosomes of one type instead of the normal two.
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:
Surgical repair of damaged fallopian tube.
Tubotubal Anastomosis:
Surgery performed to remove a diseased portion of the fallopian tube and
reconnect the two ends.
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.
Ultrasound:
A test which uses sound waves to visualise the reproductive organs, for
example, to monitor follicular development and to examine the tubes and uterus.
Umbilical Cord:
Two arteries and one vein encased in a gelatinous tube leading from the
baby to the placenta which exchange nutrients and oxygen from the mother for
waste products from the baby.
Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism):
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.
Unicornuate Uterus:
An abnormality in which the uterus is "one sided" and smaller
than usual.
Ureaplasma (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:
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.
Urologist:
A doctor specialising in the genitourinary tract.
Uterine Septum:
A band of tissue in the midsection of the uterus that divide the normal
uterine cavity.
Uterus:
The hollow, muscular organ that houses and nourishes the fetus during
pregnancy.
Vagina:
The canal leading from the cervix to the outside of the woman's body.
Vaginismus:
Vaginal spasm, inability to relax vaginal muscles before or during
intercourse.
Vaginitis:
Infections of the vagina which may indicate the presence of pelvic
adhesions and tubal blockage from other infections, such as Chlamydia and which
may interfere with sperm penetration of the cervical mucus.
Varicocoele:
A dilation of the veins that carry blood out of the scrotum. The
resulting swollen vessels surrounding the testicles create a pool of stagnant
blood, which elevates the scrotal temperature and is a major cause of male
infertility.
Vas Deferens:
One of the tubes through which the sperm move from the testicles
(epididymis) toward the seminal vesicles and prostate gland. These tubes are
severed during a vasectomy performed for birth control.
Vasectomy:
The surgical separation of the vas a deferens – a procedure used
for birth control.
Vasogram:
An x-ray of the vas deferens.
Venereal Disease:
Any infection that can be sexually transmitted, such as chlamydia,
gonorrhea, ureaplasma and syphilis. Many of these diseases interfere with
fertility.
Virility:
Being able to perform sexually; having male secondary sex
characteristics.
Viscosity:
Thickening of the semen.
Washing of the sperm:
A procedure to remove the seminal fluid from the sperm.
Welfare of the Child:
The social and ethical considerations used when considering the
wellbeing of an individual under the age of 18.
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 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.
ZIFT:
Zygote
Intra-fallopian Transfer.
Zona Pellucida:
The
protective coating surrounding the egg.
Zoladex:
A long-acting GnRh agonist drug used to induce down regulation of the
pituitary gland.
Zygote:
A
fertilised egg which has not yet divided.