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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.
- Secondary Infertility
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The inability of a couple which has successfully achieved pregnancy to achieve another. This strict medical definition includes couples for whom the pregnancy did not go to term. The common usage, however, refers to a couple which has one biological child but is unable to conceive another.
- Semen
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The fluid portion of the ejaculate consisting of secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and several other glands in the male reproductive tract. The semen provides nourishment and protection for the sperm and a medium in which the sperm can travel to the woman's vagina. Semen may also refer to the entire ejaculate, including the sperm.
- Semen Analysis
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A laboratory test used to assess semen quality: sperm quantity, concentration, morphology (form), and motility. In addition, it measures semen (fluid) volume and whether or not white blood cells are present, indicating an infection.
- Septate Uterus
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A septum divides the uterus into two chambers.
- Sperm Morphology
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A semen analysis factor that indicates the number or percentage of sperm in the sample that appear to have been formed normally.
- Sperm Motility
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The ability of sperm to swim. Poor motility means the sperm may have a difficult time swimming toward their goal, the egg.
- Superovulation
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Stimulation with injectable fertility medication (gonadotropins) in order to cause the release of multiple eggs during ovulation; also referred to as controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH).
- Surrogate Mother
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A woman who agrees to carry a pregnancy for another couple who will ultimately raise the child as the intended parent(s).