Glossary of key terms in fertility care

Navigating the world of fertility treatments can be complex. To help simplify the journey, here’s a curated list of key terms and diagnostics commonly encountered in fertility treatments.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

1. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Eggs are fertilised with sperm in a lab, with embryos later transferred to the uterus.

2. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly placed in the uterus to facilitate fertilisation.

3. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected into an egg, used in cases of severe male infertility.

4. Embryo Freezing (Cryopreservation): Embryos are frozen for future fertility treatments.

5. Oocyte Cryopreservation (Egg Freezing): Eggs are harvested, frozen, and stored for future use.

6. Assisted Hatching: A technique where the embryo's outer layer is thinned to help implantation.

7. Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS): Screens embryos for chromosomal normality during IVF.

   
   

Diagnostic Procedures

1. Ultrasound: An imaging method using sound waves to visualise internal body structures, crucial in monitoring ovaries and the uterus.

2. Hysterosalpingography (HSG): A radiographic test to assess the uterus and fallopian tubes for blockages or abnormalities.

3. Semen Analysis: Evaluates sperm quality and quantity to identify male infertility issues.

4. Hormone Testing: Involves checking blood levels of key reproductive hormones like FSH, LH, and oestrogen.

5. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Measures FSH levels to assess ovarian reserve and fertility potential.

6. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Test: A blood test indicating the number of viable eggs remaining in the ovaries.

7. Transvaginal Ultrasound: Offers a detailed view of the uterus and ovaries, essential for tracking follicle development.

8. Endometrial Biopsy: Involves taking a tissue sample from the uterine lining to check for conditions affecting pregnancy.

Fertility Medication Names

1. Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid): A medication that stimulates ovulation by blocking oestrogen receptors, commonly used in women with irregular ovulation.

2. Gonadotrophins: Hormones that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, used in various assisted reproductive techniques.

3. Metformin: Primarily used for women with PCOS, it improves insulin resistance and can enhance ovulation.

4. Progesterone: A hormone used in fertility treatments to support the uterine lining and maintain pregnancy.

5. Letrozole: An oral drug that induces ovulation, particularly effective in women with PCOS.

6. Bromocriptine: Treats high levels of prolactin that can interfere with ovulation and menstrual function.

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Other Common Terms

1. Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs): Detect the surge in LH hormone, indicating imminent ovulation.

2. Follicular Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds to observe follicle development in the ovaries during treatment.

3. Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): Checks embryos for genetic disorders before uterine transfer.

4. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting: Tracking daily body temperature to detect ovulation.

5. Reproductive Immunology: Studies the interaction between the immune system and reproductive system, often related to recurrent pregnancy loss.

6. Sperm Function Tests: Assess sperm's ability to survive in cervical mucus and penetrate an egg.

Disclaimer: Description of terms, or explanations of procedures and use of medications are NOT medical advice and should not be self-administered.