Helpful Resources

Adhesion

Scar tissue that abnormally attaches to internal organs, such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, uterus or other internal organs. Adhesions can wrap up or distort these organs, limiting their movement, function and cause infertility and pain.

Amniocentesis

A procedure performed in the second trimester of pregnancy that can detect many fetal abnormalities. It is performed by carefully sampling a small quantity of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus with a needle, under ultrasound guidance.

Aspiration

The removal of fluid and cells by suction through a needle. This technique is performed in many procedures in reproductive medicine, including IVF egg retrievals. 

Assisted Hatching (AH)

Placing a small opening in the "shell" that surrounds every embryo. This assists the embryo in breaking out of this shell and extruding itself to implant in the endometrium. This is performed by embryologists in the laboratory prior to embryo transfer in IVF cycles.

Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

Body temperature at rest, taken in the morning before arising from bed. Successive BBTs can be measured orally each morning and recorded on a calendar chart. These charts can be studied to help identify the time of ovulation, or if you are ovulating at all. Menstrual calendar information is also an important part of a BBT chart. An ovulation predictor kit (OPK) may be used instead of daily temperature readings.

Beta HCG

Beta-hCG (β-hCG) is a test that measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the blood. This hormone is produced as soon as 10 days after conception. In healthy pregnancies, levels of hCG increase rapidly in early pregnancy. An above-normal level can confirm pregnancy. Serial beta-hCG tests done over time can show if hCG levels are increasing, which is a sign that a pregnancy is proceeding normally.

Capacitation

The process that sperm must undergo in order to fertilize an oocyte (egg).

Cervical Factor Infertility

Occurs due to a structural or hormonal abnormality of the cervix, or when cervical mucus is not the right consistency, does not contain the right nutrients, or contains antisperm antibodies. Any of these abnormalities can prevent the sperm from swimming through and fertilizing the egg.

Cervical Mucus

Normal secretions of the cervix which change in volume and consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. Its quality is a reflection of hormonal stimulation.

Cervix

The lower section of the uterus which protrudes into the vagina and serves as a reservoir for sperm. Its anatomical functions include being a natural barrier to the inner uterus, and also keeping pregnancies from delivering prematurely.

Chemical Pregnancy

A positive pregnancy test, but with levels of pregnancy hormone (beta hCG) too low for ultrasound documentation of a pregnancy. Typically, this definition includes pregnancies that have low beta hCG levels that spontaneously decline without any further development.

Cleavage

The initial cell division that occurs when a fertilized egg starts developing into an embryo. Cells divide from 1 to 2, then 2 to 4, then 4 to 8, and so on. Cleavage is measured in the embryology laboratory during IVF cycles.

Clinical Pregnancy

A clinical pregnancy is a pregnancy that is confirmed by both high levels of hCG (the pregnancy hormone) and ultrasound confirmation of a gestational sac or heartbeat (fetal pole).

Clomiphene Citrate

More commonly known as Clomid® or Serophene®, this oral medication is used to stimulate the ovaries and/or synchronize follicle development prior to egg retrieval.

Congenital Anomaly

A non-hereditary characteristic, or defect, developed before birth. These can include very minor irregularities, such as curvature of the second toe so it overlaps the third toe, or can be a more major anomaly, such as a heart defect.

Corpus Luteum

A special gland that forms from the ovulated follicle in the ovary. It produces progesterone during the second half of the menstrual cycle which is necessary to prepare the uterine lining for implantation. It also supports early pregnancies by secreting the necessary hormones until the placenta becomes fully functional (8-10 weeks gestation).

Cumulus

The cloud-like collection of supportive follicle cells that surround the oocyte (egg).

Cyst

A fluid-filled structure that can be found anywhere in the body. In reproductive medicine, primarily referring to cysts in the ovaries. Ovarian cysts may be normal or abnormal, or may be follicles that have not been fully reabsorbed from previous menstrual or treatment cycles.

Donor Egg Cycle

The use of donated eggs from an anonymous or known donor. The eggs are retrieved via an IVF cycle performed on the donor, then inseminated with designated sperm to hopefully form embryos, which are transferred into the womb of the intended parent.

Donor Embryo Transfer

The transfer of embryos resulting from the oocyte (egg) and sperm of another patient who has chosen to donate their unused embryos. The donor may be anonymous or known, and donated embryos can then be transferred to an otherwise infertile recipient.

Donor Insemination

The introduction of sperm from an anonymous or known donor into the vagina, cervix, or uterine cavity in order to achieve a pregnancy.

Ductus Deferens (vas)

A thick walled tubular structure running from each testis into the ejaculatory duct. These structures carry sperm from the testicles to the epididymis of the penis for ejaculation. The vas deferens can be scarred or damaged by surgery, trauma, or infection to the point where it does not allow sperm to pass through.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy that has implanted outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. Also termed a tubal pregnancy. Usually diagnosed in its early stages by following the pregnancy hormone, beta HCG, very closely during the first part of pregnancy. Left undiagnosed and untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can have serious medical consequences.

Elective Single Embryo Transfer (eSET)

The transferring of a single embryo to the uterus at the culmination of an IVF cycle. eSET decreases your chances of multiple pregnancy and is now standard practice.

Embryo

The term used to describe the early stages of fetal growth. Strictly defined from the second to the ninth week of pregnancy, but often used to designate any time after conception.

Endocrinology

The study of hormones, their function, the organs that produce them, and how they are produced.

Endometrial Biopsy

The extraction of a small piece of tissue from the endometrium (lining of the uterus) for microscopic examination.

Endometrial Cavity

The space inside the uterus created by the inner lining of the uterus which responds to female hormones during menstrual and treatment cycles. This lining, when properly prepared, forms the area of attachment and implantation of the embryo. Also referred to as the womb.

Endometriosis

The presence of endometrial tissue (tissue that normally lines the uterus) in abnormal locations such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and abdominal cavity. These lesions lead to local irritation and inflammation that can cause scarring to occur which can bind-up pelvic organs to the point of dysfunction and pain. Click here for more in depth information.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus that responds to female hormones during the menstrual cycle and treatment cycles. This lining, when properly prepared, forms the area of attachment and implantation of the embryo. A portion of this lining is shed each month with menstruation.

Epididymis

Portion of the male genital tract next to the testis where sperm maturation is partially accomplished. Receives sperm from the testis and continues as the ductus (vas) deferens.

Estradiol (E2)

The principal hormone produced by a growing ovarian follicle. It is frequently measured via blood test to gauge the strength and development of follicles during fertility treatment cycles.

Fallopian Tube

The anatomic and physiologic connection between the uterus and the ovary which serves to transport the oocyte (egg) and sperm. It is also the site of fertilization and supports and transports the conceptus in route to the uterus.

Fertilization

The union of a single sperm with an oocyte (egg) to facilitate creation of a genetically unique embryo.

Fibroids

Overgrowth of the muscular tissue of the uterus. Fibroids are typically knotty masses of benign muscle tissue that can distort the shape and function of the uterus. May be classified into three categories: sub-mucosal, intramural and serosal. Sub-mucosal fibroids are found in the uterine cavity and impair implantation. They need to be removed in order to conceive. Intramural fibroids are problematic when they become severely enlarged or impinge on the uterine cavity. Sub-serosal fibroids are generally left alone during fertility treatments.

Fimbria

The soft and supple finger-like extensions of the fallopian tube that aid in gathering in the oocyte (egg) at ovulation.

Follicle

A fluid-filled pocket in the ovary that houses the microscopic egg. Each ovary has many follicles within it. Follicles start out extremely small and then grow larger under the influence of hormones (and the medications that mimic these hormones). Follicles are lined with granulosa cells which produce estrogen and nourish the oocyte (egg). Each follicle contains a single oocyte.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain that stimulates the ovarian follicles to grow and develop. FSH is measured in the blood at specialized times during the menstrual cycle to help measure ovarian reserve.

Follicular Phase

The menstrual cycle is divided up into two main parts: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase refers to the first half of the cycle, from onset of menses to ovulation, and lasts approximately 14 days. It is associated with developing follicles that produce estradiol.

Gestation

Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

Gonal-f

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

A hormone of early pregnancy that is monitored to determine viability of the gestation. This hormone is also used as an injection to induce ovulation and maturation of the oocyte (egg) in ovarian stimulation protocols.

Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG)

A purified extract of LH and FSH, the hormones secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate the ovary. It is a commercial preparation used by injection to facilitate development of multiple follicles in treatment cycles.

Hypothalamus

A portion of the brain that stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete LH and FSH in order to stimulate ovarian follicle development. The hypothalamus acts as the “pacemaker” for many important hormone-driven processes, controlling the production and periodic release of hormones from the pituitary gland.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

An X-ray procedure to examine whether the fallopian tubes are patent (open) or not. This test helps determine if the tubes are blocking sperm from reaching the ovulated eggs through the fallopian tubes. Special dye is gently injected through the uterus and then X-ray pictures are taken to see where the dye travels.

Hysteroscopy

Minimally-invasive surgery in which a small telescopic camera is placed through the cervical canal into the uterine cavity. This allows direct visualization of the endometrium, the lining of the uterine cavity, where embryos implant. Allows removal of any impediments to implantation such as polyps or fibroids in the uterine cavity.

Implantation

The attachment and embedding of the conceptus (embryo) into the lining of the uterus.

Insemination

The transfer of sperm for the purpose of establishing a pregnancy. Inseminations are performed by placing a small, soft catheter through the cervix into the uterine cavity and depositing the concentrated and activated sperm.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Placement of a single sperm into a single oocyte (egg) by penetrating the outer coating of the egg. This technique is used in cases where there are very low sperm numbers, motility or morphology. ICSI is also used for patients who have had previous IVF cycles with failed fertilization.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

A technique that transfers sperm directly in to the uterus. It bypasses the vaginal and cervical defense mechanisms of the female reproductive tract and allows better sperm delivery to the fallopian tubes. This allows the sperm and egg to interact in close proximity. It is a very common treatment for mild and moderate deficits in the semen analysis. IUI is typically used in conjunction with medications that increase the number of eggs per cycle and triggering of ovulation. The goal is to have more "targets" (eggs) for the sperm, perfect timing, and better sperm delivery.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

A powerful procedure to help patients conceive pregnancies. IVF entails stimulating your ovaries to develop multiple follicles. This is achieved with injectable medications. The goal of IVF is to produce a large number of growing follicles, then harvest the eggs inside the follicles through a short surgical procedure performed in our office. The eggs are then inseminated with sperm in the laboratory, sometimes using ICSI, in order to create embryos that can then be transferred back to the endometrial cavity (the womb) of the patient. The name in vitro fertilization refers to the fact that the oocyte is fertilized by the sperm in the laboratory, rather than inside the female reproductive tract.

Laparoscopy

In this minimally invasive procedure, a laparoscope (a thin, lighted viewing instrument with a telescopic lens through which a surgeon views the exterior surfaces of a female’s reproductive organs and abdominal cavity) is placed through the belly button in order to view and operate on the abdominal cavity and reproductive organs. This surgical technique is minimally invasive, well-tolerated and performed in an outpatient surgery center or a fertility clinic's on-site surgical suite. It allows the physician to diagnose and remove endometriosis, as well as reopen a blocked fallopian tube, amongst many other indications.

Lupron®

A synthetic form of GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone, secreted by the hypothalamus) which is used to suppress ovarian function.

Luteal Phase

The menstrual cycle is divided up into two main parts- the follicular phase and the luteal phase. This refers to the second half of the cycle, usually the last fourteen days of an ovulatory. It begins from the time of ovulation to the onset of menses, but is prolonged during pregnancy cycles. It is associated with progesterone production from the corpus luteum that facilitates implantation of embryos and supports early pregnancies.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone produced and released by the pituitary gland. In the female, it is responsible for ovulation and the maintenance of the corpus luteum. In the male, it stimulates testosterone production and is important in the production of sperm cells.

Luteal Phase Defect (LPD)

Also called luteal phase deficiency, refers to a lack of adequate progesterone in the second half of the menstrual cycle (when a pregnancy begins). Treatment involves supplementation with progesterone and other measures.

Metrodin®

Human follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) prepared in an injectable form for the purposes of ovarian stimulation.

Media

Fluid containing nutritive growth substances that enable cells to survive in an artificial environment.

Menses

Also referred to as the menstrual cycle or period. Cyclic (monthly) flow of blood (menstruation) signifying ovulation, but failure to achieve pregnancy. Onset of bleeding (full flow, not just spotting) is considered cycle "Day 1." The purpose of a natural menstrual cycle is to produce one follicle and ovulation per month, each and every month that pregnancy is not achieved.

Micromanipulation

The name of a group of laboratory techniques that allow sperm, eggs, and embryos to be performed under the guidance of the microscope.

Oocyte

The female germ cell found in the ovaries, often referred to as an egg.

Ovary

The female sex gland with both a reproductive function (releasing oocytes) and a hormonal function (production of estrogen and progesterone).

Ovum

Also referred to as ova or egg. Mature oocytes.

Pap Smear

A screening test to determine the presence of cervical cancer. It is performed by gently touching a swab to the cervix to collect cells for examination by a pathologist.

Pergonal®

A purified extract of LH and FSH, hormones secreted from the pituitary gland which stimulate the ovary. It is a commercial preparation used by injection to facilitate development of multiple follicles in reproductive treatment cycles.

Pituitary Gland

A small organ at the base of the brain that secretes many hormones (including LH and FSH) in response to signals from the hypothalamus.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

A common endocrinologic condition that causes hormonal imbalances in women of reproductive age. It can lead to dysfunctional ovulation, infertility, weight gain, pre-diabetes and an increase in the male hormone, testosterone.

Polyp

An overgrowth of the glandular surface of the endometrium. Polyps are often removed by hysteroscopic surgery to remove any impediments to implantation.

Polyspermy

An abnormal condition where the oocyte is fertilized by more than one sperm.

Post-Coital Test (PCT)

The microscopic analysis of a sample of vaginal and cervical secretions that has been collected after sexual intercourse. This test allows your physician to see if sperm survive in your reproductive tract. It has largely been superseded by the semen analysis, but there are still some clinical indications for the PCT.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

A technique for identifying genetic or chromosomal information about embryos before transferring them back to a patient’s endometrial cavity (the womb). It entails taking a biopsy of the embryo on day three after egg retrieval. PGT can be employed to identify embryos that carry a genetic disease that may be asymptomatically carried by the parents, or it may be used to identify causes of recurrent pregnancy loss and improve pregnancy outcomes in selected patients.

Progesterone

A hormone produced by the ovary which prepares the uterus for implantation and supports the early pregnancy.

Semen Analysis

Examination of the male ejaculate under the microscope to determine the number of sperm, their ability to move forward (motility) and their shapes (morphology). The semen analysis is a cornerstone of the evaluation of couples experiencing infertility. The sperm count, motility, and morphology all provide important information about how the sperm will perform in treatment cycles.

Sperm Antibody Test

A sperm antibody test, also known as an antisperm antibody test (ASAB), looks for proteins in blood, semen, or vaginal fluids that fight against sperm. These proteins, called antibodies, can damage or kill sperm, and the higher the level of antibody-affected sperm, the lower the chance of fertilization.

Sperm Penetration Assay (SPA)

A sperm penetration assay (SPA), also known as the hamster test, is an in vitro test that measures a man's sperm's ability to fertilize an egg. The test involves mixing sperm with hamster eggs that have been treated with enzymes to remove the zona pellucida, which allows the sperm to penetrate the egg. The test measures the percentage of eggs that are penetrated or the average number of sperm that penetrate each egg. The results of the SPA can indicate a man's chances of penetrating a woman's egg and may be useful for predicting the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Testicular/Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (TESA)

The surgical removal of sperm directly from the testis or the epididymis using a needle for aspiration. This procedure is used for men who have no sperm in their ejaculate or have had vasectomies in the past. Sperm obtained through TESE requires ICSI to ensure fertilization of the oocyte (egg).

Tubal Patency

Lack of obstruction of the fallopian tubes.

Ultrasound

High-frequency sound waves that can be used painlessly, safely, and without radiation to view internal portions of the body. Ultrasound is especially useful for visualizing the female reproductive organs and monitoring pregnancies.

Uterus

Also known as the womb, this reproductive organ houses, protects, and nourishes the developing embryo and fetus. It consists of the cervix, the endometrium, and the muscular layer that comprises the body of this reproductive organ.

Varicocele

A varicose vein around the ductus (vas) deferens and the testes. This may be a cause of low sperm counts, motility and morphology and lead to male infertility.

Zygote

A zygote is a fertilized egg, the result of when an egg cell and a sperm cell combine. The zygote is just a single cell to start with, but that cell contains all of the genetic material (DNA) the baby needs: 23 chromosomes from the mother's egg and 23 from the father's sperm. The zygote remains in this stage for only a few days before it starts dividing.