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Understanding Infertility
Glossary
A diagnosis, or even a general conversation about infertility can take individuals unfamiliar with the language of reproductive technologies, on a roller coaster ride of new information and understanding. Here you will find easy to understand definitions for commonly used terms related to infertility and infertility treatment.
- Ectopic Pregnancy
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The development of a fertilized egg outside the uterus; embryos may migrate into the fallopian tube and lodge there rather than returning to the uterine cavity for normal development.
- Egg Retrieval
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A procedure used to obtain eggs from ovarian follicles for use in in vitro fertilization. This procedure is performed using ultrasound guidance to drain the ovarian follicles through the vagina.
- Embryo
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The term used to describe the early stages of fetal growth, from conception to the eight week of pregnancy.
- Embryo Transfer
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Introduction of an embryo into a woman’s uterus.
- Endometriosis
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The presence of endometrial tissue (normal uterine lining) in abnormal locations such as the tubes, ovaries and peritoneal cavity, often causing infertility and painful menstruation.
- Epididymis
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The coiled tube attached to the back and upper side of the testicle that stores sperm and is connected to the vas deferens.
- Estradiol
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A hormone released by developing follicles in the ovary. Plasma estradiol levels are used to help determine progressive growth of the follicle during ovulation induction.
- Estrogen
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A class of hormones produced mainly by the ovaries from the onset of puberty and continuing until menopause and which are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics.