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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.
- Fallopian Tubes
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A pair of narrow tubes that carry the ovum (egg) from the ovary to the uterus.
- Fertility Treatment
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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
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The penetration of the egg by the sperm and fusion of genetic materials to result in the development of the embryo.
- Fibroid Tumour
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A benign tumour of fibrous tissue that may occur in the uterine wall; may be totally without symptoms or may cause abnormal menstrual patterns.
- Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
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At the beginning of each menstrual cycle the ovaries receive a hormonal signal that stimulates the follicles to grow and develop.
- Follicles
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Fluid-filled sacs in the ovary which contain the eggs released at ovulation.
Each month an egg develops inside the ovary in a fluid-filled pocket called a follicle.