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AA - Amino acid - break up into separate
amino acids
(alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine) is a part of organic molecules containing an amino group, which can combine in linear arrays to form proteins in living organisms. There are twenty common amino acids: alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. (alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine) is one of the key components in all living things. Proteins are synthesized by formation of peptide bonds during ribosomal translation of messenger RNA. All the amino acids have the L configuration, except glycine, which is not optically active. Other amino acids occurring in proteins, such as hydroxyproline in collagen, are formed by post translational enzymatic modification of amino acid residues in polypeptide chains. There are also several important amino acids, such as the neurotransmitter x aminobutyric acid, that have no relation to proteins. Amino acids can now be produced by biotechnology in bulk using fermentation and biotransformation. Amino acids, Proteins, amino groups, peptides, peptide chains, fermentation, collagen, organic molecules, alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine, ribosomal translation of messenger RNA, RNA, enzymatic modification Faciodigitogential dysplasia Faciodigitogential dysplasia - this disorder is characterized by multiple birth defects including wide spaced eyes (ocular hypertelorism), front-facing (anteverted) nostrils, a broad upper lip, a malformed ("saddle-bag") scrotum, and laxity of the ligaments resulting in bending back of the knees (genu recurvatum), flat feet, and overly extensible fingers. This condition is inherited. There are X-linked and autosomal (non-X-linked) forms of the disease. The gene for the X-linked form of the disease has been mapped to chromosome band Xp11.21. The disease is named for DJ Aarskog (1928-) and CI Scott, Jr. (1934-), Norwegian and American pediatricians, respectively, who described it in 1970-71. It is also known as Aarskog-Scott syndrome. The transfer of A-S syndrome onto a child can be prevented by Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) if the genetic counselor recommends PGD to prospective parents. Genetics, genetic diseases, inherited diseases, family diseases, inheritance, X-linked, X-linked disease, PGD, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, chromosome, birth defects, inherited condition, autosomal, chromosome band Abdominal hysterectomy Hysterectomy - The removal of the uterus. Can be done through opening of the abdomen or, in some situations, through the vagina. Only the uterus is removed. When fallopian/uterine tubes are removed, it is called salpingectomy. When the ovaries are removed, it is called oophorectomy. When both organs are removed, it is called hysterectomy with salping-oophorectomy. (these can be linked to) (needs Keywords)
Abdominoscopy - a type of surgery that uses a laparoscope, which is inserted through one or more small incisions, to examine the abdominal cavity. Practically the entire abdomen and its organs can be inspected. The procedure was revived in the 1960's and 1970's, and has become the most frequently performed surgery. It is also known as peritineoscopy (?) pelviscopy, and laparoscopy. It could be done for diagnostic purposes only, that is, to find the source of complaint of the patient. Frequently it is combined with a therapeutic procedure, at which time the problem is corrected. It significantly shortens the stay in the hospital/surgery center. The diagnostic procedure is frequently done on an outpatient basis, without true admission to the hospital. Operative laparoscopy usually calls for a day or two of hospital stay. (needs Keywords)
Abduct - to move away from the body. Ablation The procedure could be performed by several techniques, which became known as "separation," "detachment," "extirpation," "eradication," "removal," "destruction," and "cutting." Ablation, separation, detachment, extirpation, eradication, removal, destruction, cutting
Spontaneous Abortion: A pregnancy loss during the first twenty weeks of gestation. Habitual Abortion: When a woman has had three or more spontaneous miscarriages, one after the other. There obviously is a reason for these occurrences, which sometimes could be obvious, and sometimes even after numerous investigations remains undetected. Incomplete Abortion: A situation when some of the products of conception (placenta or fetus) remain inside the uterus. A D&C or vacuum aspiration must be performed to remove the tissue and prevent complications, especially bleeding/hemorrhage and/or infection. Missed Abortion: A situation where the fetus dies in the uterus, but there is no bleeding or cramping for a couple of days. A D&C or vacuum will be needed to remove the products of conception and prevent complications specifically bleeding/hemorrhage and/or infection. Therapeutic Abortion: A procedure used to terminate a pregnancy before the fetus can survive on its own. Early termination is relatively safe and usually uncomplicated. Termination of more advanced pregnancies risk immediate and/or delayed complications. Some may be quite serious inclusive of possible death. Threatened Abortion: Spotting or bleeding that occurs early in the pregnancy. May progress to spontaneous abortion. If timely diagnosed and properly treated most threatening abortions will progress to successful delivery of normal and healthy baby. Miscarriage, Dilations, Curettage, Dilation and curettage, vacuum aspiration, conception, infection of the uterus, endometritis, PID, pelvic inflammatory disease, dead fetus, spontaneous abortion, habitual abortion, incomplete abortion, missed abortion, therapeutic abortion, threatened abortion, gestation, products of conception, complications, fetus, infection, bleeding, hemorrhage, early termination, D&C (same keywords for each except for abortion types) AA - Anticardiolipin Antibodies. Anticardiolipin Antibodies - an antibody directed against cardiolipin. These are one of the antiphospholipid group of antibodies. They are the most widely accepted and tested for immune factor. Approximately 80% of patients who have an antiphospholipid antibody problem will test positive for anticardiolipin antibodies. The remaining 20% will test positive for one of the other six antiphospholipid antibodies. These antibodies are believed to be one of the frequent causes of miscarriages. Various therapies have been designed to control the condition and allow for normal pregnancy to occur. Keywords: abortion, miscarriage, pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, steroids, immunoglobulins, globulins, anticardiolipin, antibodies, cardiolipin, antiphospholipid, immune factor, antiphospholipid antibodies
Acquired immunity - a state in which a host is not susceptible to infection or disease, or the mechanisms by which this is achieved. Immunity is achieved by an individual through one of three routes: natural or innate immunity genetically inherited or acquired through maternal antibody, acquired immunity conferred after contact with a disease, and artificial immunity after a successful vaccination. Also termed specific immunity, resistance or specific resistance. Specific immunity is divided into cellular immunity acting via the direct involvement of T cells and humoral immunity involving antibodies and B cells. Immunity, innate immunity, acquired immunity, maternal antibody, infection, disease, humoral immunity, artificial immunity, specific immunity, resistance, specific resistance, vaccination, cellular immunity, T cells
Acquired mutations - gene changes that arise within individual cells and accumulate throughout a person's lifetime; also called somatic mutations. Acquired mutations, mutations, somatic mutations, gene changes, genes, cells
Acrosome - the packet of enzymes in a sperm's head that allows the sperm to dissolve a hole in the coating around the egg, which allows the sperm to penetrate and fertilize the egg. ACTH - Adrenal Corticotropic (Adrenocorticotropic) Hormone. Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone (ACTH) - A hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the adrenal glands. Excessive levels may lead to fertility problems. A protein hormone of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex. A peptide hormone that is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoid hormones, which help cells synthesise glucose, catabolize proteins, mobilize free fatty acids and inhibit inflammation in allergic responses.
ACTH suppression test - this test is performed when adrenal disease is suspected; it can differentiate adrenal disease (altered response to ACTH) from pituitary disorders (altered production of ACTH). The secretion of ACTH from the pituitary gland is normally regulated by the level of cortisol in the plasma. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. As plasma cortisol levels increase, ACTH secretion is suppressed, as cortisol levels decrease and ACTH increases. Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid similar to cortisol, which suppresses ACTH secretion in normal people. Administering dexamethasone should reduce ACTH levels resulting in decreased cortisol levels.
In the 6-day method, urine is collected at 24-hour intervals over 6 days for measurement of cortisol or 17-OCHS. On day 3, a low dose (0.5 mg) of dexamethasone is given by mouth every 6 hours for 24-hours. On day 5, the procedure is repeated with a high dose (2.0 mg) of dexamethasone. Venipuncture (blood drawing) When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. Some patients have very small veins, moving veins, or deep veins and puncturing them might be very difficult even in hands of an experienced venipuncturist and repeated attempts may be necessary.
The health care provider may advise to discontinue drugs that could affect the test results. Drugs that can affect test results include barbiturates, estrogens, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, spironolactone, and tetracyclines.
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time- APTT is a coagulation test performed by adding a partial thromboplastin reagent (contact activating substance such as silica, phospholipid, and calcium) to citrated plasma, and measuring the time to clot (normal 25 - 35 seconds). This test is often used when patients are on medications that thin blood, such as Heparin. Blood clotting, blood clot, embolus, Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time, APTT, Thromboplastin Time, Thromboplastin, coagulation test, coagulation, partial thromboplastin, phospholipid, calcium, citrated plasma, plasma, Heparin, Partial Thromboplastin, blood thinning Addison disease Addison disease - is a consequence of long-term under function of the outer portion of the adrenal gland. In medical terms, chronic insufficiency of the adrenal cortex. This may be due to a number of different insults to the adrenal gland including physical trauma, hemorrhage, tuberculosis, and destruction of the cells in the pituitary gland that secrete ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) which normally drives the adrenal. Addison's disease is characterized by bronzing of the skin, anemia, weakness, and low blood pressure. The U.S. President J.F. Kennedy is said to have had Addison disease. The adrenal cortex insufficiency was named after the British physician Thomas Addison (1793-1860). When Addison identified adrenal insufficiency in 1849, tuberculosis (TB) was responsible for 70-90% of cases. As the treatment for TB improved, the incidence of adrenal insufficiency due to TB of the adrenal gland greatly decreased in developed countries. TB now accounts for around 20% of cases of primary adrenal insufficiency. Addison disease, adrenal gland, gland, insufficiency of the adrenal cortex, adrenal cortex, pituitary gland, pituitary, ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone, hormone, anemia, weakness, adrenal insufficiency, tuberculosis, TB, chronic insufficiency, insufficiency, trauma, hemorrhage, tuberculosis Adduct Adduct - to move toward the body. Adduct, Abduct
Adenine - one member of the A-T (adenine-thymine) base pair in DNA. The
other base pair in DNA is G-C (guanine-cytosine). Each base pair forms
a "rung of the DNA ladder." A DNA nucleotide is made of a molecule
of sugar, a molecule of phosphoric acid, and a molecule called a base.
The bases are the "letters" that spell out the genetic code.
In DNA, the code letters are A, T, G, and C, which stand for the chemicals
adenine, Adenine, A-T, adenine-thymine, DNA, G-C, guanine-cytosine, nucleotide, DNA nucleotide, molecule, phosphoric acid, genetic code, code letters, thymine, guanine, cytosine, DNA base pairing, RNS, base molecule
This condition includes: 1.) Any disease of the glands. Adenosis, diseases, glands, ectopic areas, ectopic, glandular (columnar) epithelium, glandular, columnar, epithelium, glandular epithelium Adhesins, escherichia coli Adhesins, escherichia coli - thin, filamentous protein structures, including proteinaceous capsular antigens (fimbrial antigens), that mediate adhesion of E. coli to surfaces and play a role in pathogenesis of adhesions. They have a high affinity for various epithelial cells. Adhesins, escherichia coli, filamentous proteins, proteinaceuous capsular antigens, capsular antigens, fimbrial antigens, antigens, adhesion, affinity
Origin of the term is in Latin Adhaesio, from adhaerere = to stick to, form 1. Adhesions or scar or scarring occurs when traumatized body parts join to each other in a stable fashion, which may occur under certain circumstances. 2. A fibrous band or structure by which parts abnormally adhere. 3. Scarring is a result of healing of tissue injury. It can be caused
by infections such as gonorrhea or 4. Scar tissue forms in the abdominal cavity involuntarily; when it involves fallopian tubes, the ovary, or inside the uterus it can interfere with transport of the egg and implantation of the embryo in the uterus causing infertility. The adhesions can be removed surgically or if considered inoperable the patients should consider the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to achieve conception.
Adhesions involving the tubes and/or ovaries Adhesions involving the tubes and/or the ovaries are frequently called
pelvic inflammatory disease/PID. Adhesions, tubes, ovaries, infertility, pregnancy, In Vitro Fertilization, invitro fertilization, IVF, IV F, I VD, in vetro fertilization, pelvic inflammatory disease, PID, laparoscopy, pelviscopy, infection, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, surgery, laparoscopic surgery, normal pick up of the egg, pick up of the egg, egg
Adnexa (plural adnexae) - the region of the pelvis that includes the ovary, fallopian tube and surrounding broad ligament. Abnormalities or a disease of these structures frequently causes infertility and increases the risks of extrauterine/ectopic/tubal/ovarian pregnancy. Adnexa, pelvis, ovary, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterine tube, extrauterine pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, tubal pregnancy, ovarian pregnancy, pregnancy, infertility
Adrenal Androgens - Male hormones produced by the adrenal gland which, when found in excess, may lead to fertility problems in both men and women. Excess androgens in the woman may lead to the formation of male secondary sex characteristics and the suppression of LH and FSH production by the pituitary gland. Elevated levels of androgens may be found in women with polycystic ovaries, or with a tumor in the pituitary gland, adrenal gland, or ovary. May also be associated with excess prolactin levels. Adrenal androgens, male hormones, hormones, adrenal gland, infertility, excess hair, hirsutism, LH, FSH, adrenal, fertility problems, fertility, sex characteristics, pituitary gland, pituitary, polycystic ovaries, ovaries, prolactin
Adrenal Corticotropic Hormone is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the adrenal glands. Abnormal levels may lead to fertility problems. It is chemically a peptide hormone that is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Besides others it stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoid hormones, which help cells synthesise glucose, catabolize proteins, mobilize free fatty acids and inhibit inflammation in allergic responses. The proper function can be examined by adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) suppression test. Allergy, infertility, Adrenal, Corticoptropic Adrenocorticotropic, Hormone, ACTH, Adrenal Corticotropic (Adrenocorticotropic) Hormone, pituitary gland, pituitary, adrenal, adrenal glands, fertility, fertility problems, peptide, peptide hormone, anterior pituitary gland, adrenal cortex, glucocorticoid, glucocorticoid hormones, synthesise glucose, glucose, catabolize, catabolize proteins, free fatty acids, fatty acids, acids, inflammation, allergic responses Aetiological fraction Aetiological fraction - The reduction in disease when a risk factor is removed. If I* is the number of people that a risk factor is responsible for and I is the total number of cases over the same period, then the aetiological fraction is I*/I. Equivalently, the aetiological fraction is (I-Io)/I. where Io is the number of cases in the absence of the risk factor. Also known as the attributable fraction. Aetiology, etiology, aetiological, etiological, disease, risk factor, attributable fraction
The study of the causes of disease. Every disease is caused by a sometimes known/sometimes unknown condition. If the aetiology/etiology of the disease is known it can be more successfully treated and frequently prevented. Aetiology, etiology, causes of disease, disease, condition, treatment success, prevention success, treatment, prevention AF - Aunt Flo (menstruation) Aunt Flo - A discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in non-pregnant breeding-age primate females and is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the non-pregnant state following changes accompanying the preceding ovulation, with production of ovarian hormones in cyclical fashion. The cyclic, physiologic discharge through the vagina of blood and mucosal tissues from the non-pregnant uterus, is under hormonal control and normally recurs, in the absence of pregnancy during the reproductive period (puberty through menopause) of the female of the human and a few species of primates. It is the culmination of the menstrual cycle. Aunt flo, menstruation, blood, secretions, tissue debris, ovarian hormones, cycle, menstrual cycle, ovaries, egg, uterus, reproduction, puberty, menopause
Age-structured model - a mathematical model which take into consideration
the division of the host population into different age classes. Such models
can be used to consider the
Agglutination - Clumping together. Sperm may clump together due to infection, inflammation or antibodies.
Aggregation - a distribution of parasites amongst hosts is said to be
aggregated, or Macroparasites are typically aggregated in their host populations, so that the majority of hosts harbour few or no parasites while a few hosts harbour large parasite burdens. Aggregated distributions are often well described empirically by the negative binomial distribution.
Assisted Hatching (AH) - the process of helping an embryo to hatch by making a surgical slit in the zona pellucida or "shell" or by digesting this "shell" with special enzymes. It is indicated in most women over 40 years of age undergoing IVF, and when the zona pellucida is thick. Thinning out the zona pellucida prior to transferring the embryo into the uterus.
AHI - at-home Insemination
Artificial Insemination (AI) - Placing sperm into the vagina, uterus or fallopian tubes through artificial means instead of by coitus. Usually injected through a catheter or cannula after being washed. This procedure is used for both donor (AID) and husband's (AIH) sperm. This technique is used to overcome sexual performance problems, to circumvent sperm-mucus interaction problems, to maximize the potential for poor semen, and for using donor sperm. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one type of artificial insemination that involves the placement of sperm inside the uterine cavity. The procedure involves the washing of sperm to obtain the best quality fraction and then injecting it (less than 0.5cc) into the uterus. A thin, soft catheter is used, connected to a syringe that contains the washed sperm. The catheter is introduced through the cervix and inside the uterus. Cramping sometimes does occur but it is usually short-lived. Artificial insemination is commonly used with ovulation inducing medications, when there is abnormal cervical mucus, and always with donor sperm. Donor sperm (AID), husband's sperm (AIH), mucus problems, reproduction, assisted reproduction, intrauterine insemination, uterine cavity, ovulation, abnormal cervical mucus, abnormal mucus, assisted reproduction technique, assisted reproduction, insemination, ovulation induction, ovulation medication, ovulation therapy, Artificial insemination, Artificial insemination-donor, Artificial insemination- husband, Artificial insemination- surrogate, cervix, catheter Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Intrauterine insemination is a specific type of artificial insemination in which the sperm is inserted directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation. More than one insemination may be done to make sure it coincides with ovulation. In intrauterine insemination, the sperm is washed free of seminal fluid before being inserted into the uterine cavity. Artificial insemination is usually done when infertility is due to a male problem such as low sperm concentration or decrease motility. Common fertility problems among women where intrauterine insemination may be helpful are cervical mucus problems or immunologic problems. Donor sperm, artificial insemination/donor (AID), husband's sperm, artificial insemination/husband, (AIH), mucus problems, reproduction, assisted reproduction, intrauterine insemination, uterine cavity, ovulation, abnormal cervical mucus, assisted reproduction technique, insemination, ovulation induction, ovulation medication, ovulation therapy, Artificial insemination, Artificial insemination- surrogate, sperm wash, semen, immunology, artificial insemination, intrauterine insemination, sperm, uterus, time of ovulation, ovulation, uterine cavity, seminal fluid, male problem, male, fertility problems, fertility, cervical mucus, mucus, immunologic problems AID - Artificial Insemination Donor Artificial insemination using donor sperm. Donor sperm is thoroughly tested and maybe frozen for six months. The donor sperm is then carefully processed and inserted into the woman's vagina, cervical canal, or directly into the uterus. In order to be successful it needs to be done shortly prior to ovulation. AIS is done when the husband is sterile or severely infertile. Artificial Insemination Donor (AID), Insemination, Artificial Insemination Surrogate (AIS), Insemination Donor, Insemination Surrogate, AIS, donor insemination, sperm frozen, frozen sperm, male infertility, male sterility
Artificial insemination is using the husband's sperm. The husband's sperm is carefully processed before inserting it into the woman's vagina, cervical canal or directly into the uterus. In order to be successful it needs to be done shortly prior to ovulation. AIS/AID is done when the husband is sterile or severely infertile. AIH is done when the husband is infertile, having low sperm count, or sperm with low motility or ejaculate with low volume.
Artificial Insemination from Husband
Alloimmune Factors - Natural killer cells, leukocyte antigen cross match. Alloimmune factors can lead to pregnancy loss in two different ways. First, the body fails to recognize a pregnancy, and second, there is an abnormal immunological response to the pregnancy. A patient may be tested for leukocyte antibodies, natural killer cells, and embryo toxic factor. Possible treatments are intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) or paternal white blood cell immunization. Alloimmune Factors, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, immune system leukocytes,
white cells, white blood cells, antibodies, intravenous immunoglobulin
(IUIg), paternal white blood cells, globulin immunization, immunoglobulin Amenorrhea - absence of menstruation, the absence or discontinuation or abnormal stoppage of the menstrual periods. Primary Amenorrhea afflicts a woman who has never menstruated. Secondary Amenorrhea afflicts a woman who has menstruated at one time, but who has not had a period for six months or more. Menstrual period, menstruation, absence of menstruation, amenorrhea, primary amenorrhea, menstrual cycle, secondary amenorrhea, menopause, hormones, hormonal disorder, menstrual dysfunction Amino acid (AA) Amino acid - a class of organic molecules containing an amino group, which can combine in linear arrays to form proteins in living organisms. There are twenty common amino acids: alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. They are key components in all living things from which proteins are synthesized by formation of peptide bonds during ribosomal translation of messenger RNA. All the amino acids have the L configuration, except glycine which is not optically active. Other amino acids occurring in proteins, such as hydroxyproline in collagen, are formed by post translational enzymatic modification of amino acid residues in polypeptide chains. There are also several important amino acids, such as the neurotransmitter y aminobutyric acid, that have no relation to proteins. Amino acids can now be produced by biotechnology in bulk using fermentation and biotransformation. Amino group, proteins, peptide bonds, peptides, poly peptides, poly peptides bond, RNA, DNA, ribosomes, L-configuration, neurotransmitters, synthetic aa, alanine, arginine, aspargine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine, ,molecule, organic molecule, ribonucleic acid, desoxy ribonucleic acid, amniobutyric acid Amniocentesis Amniocentesis - A test where amniotic fluid is aspirated to test the fetus for genetic abnormalities. The surgical insertion of a hollow needle through the abdominal wall or the vagina into the uterus of a pregnant female to obtain amniotic fluid to examine the fetal chromosomes for an abnormality and for the determination of sex. In humans this is carried out, between the 12th and 16th week of pregnancy, by inserting a needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus. By karyotyping the cells and determining the genetic material present, it is possible to determine the sex of the fetus and whether it is suffering from certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome, spina bifida and presence of birth defects in the developing baby. Amniocentesis, pregnancy, prenatal test, genetics, genetic abnormalities, amniotic fluid, amniotic sac, chromosomes, chromosomes karyotype, karyotyping, Down's Syndrome, birth defects, fetus, PGD, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, sex, gender, gender determination, sex determination ANA Anti-nuclear Antibodies.
Male reproductive hormones, such as testosterone. The male hormones are produced throughout early life in minute concentrations. At puberty the production reaches clinical levels, which then produce development of secondary characteristics of a young male. From then on the male hormones are produced. There is no definite abrupt stoppage of male hormones similar to menopause in women. The male reproductive hormone/testosterone is produced by developed testicles. Besides production of the male hormone, the testicles also produce sperm. One or the other function, or possibly both functions, can be affected by various clinical situations. These hormones may be produced in excess by the female in certain conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - PCOS.
A physician-scientist who performs laboratory evaluations of male fertility. May hold a Ph.D. degree instead of an M.D. Usually affiliated with a fertility treatment center working on in vitro fertilization.
Condition of having an abnormal number of chromosomes.
Failure or absence of ovulation.
The generic name of this medication is ganirelix acetate or cetrorelix
acetate. GRH Antagonist, Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Antagonist, Antagon, centrotide, ganirelix acetate, cetrorelix acetate, LH, luteinizing hormone, hormone, ovulation, ovulation induction, ovulation suppression, ovary, stimulation of ovary, hyper stimulation of ovary, controlled simulation of ovary, controlled hyper stimulation of ovary Antenatal The period between conception and birth. Same as prenatal.
Uterus that tips forward toward bladder.
A drug, for example praziquantal, used specifically against helminth or worm infections. Anti-D (Rhogam) Anti-D - an immunization given to Rh-negative women after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or live birth to prevent production of antibodies in any Rh-positive babies they may have in future pregnancies.
Antibodies are produced by the immune system to fight off foreign substances, like bacteria. Anti-sperm antibodies attach themselves to sperm and inhibit movement and their ability to fertilize. If directed specifically against the head of the sperm, they can prevent fertilization. Either men or women may produce sperm antibodies. There are different methods for testing for antibodies. A simple blood
test can be done or a more sophisticated test called the immunobead sperm
antibody assay. This test looks for antibodies directly attached to the
sperm. The recommended treatment is In vitro fertilization (IVF) often
combined with Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). ATA Anti-thyroid Antibody
Antibodies - any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two substances that are produced by specialized cells in the body, called B cells. These substances attack foreign material that enters the body in order to prevent or fight off infection. Sometimes these substances may mistakenly recognize the body's organs or sperm as being foreign and attack them. These chemicals normally prevent infection; however, when they attack the sperm or fetus, they cause infertility or miscarriage. Sperm antibodies may be made by either the man or the woman. Antibodies, proteins of high molecular weight, proteins, molecular weight, antigen, cancer cells, cancer, B cells, sperm, infection, sperm, fetus, infertility, miscarriage, sperm antibodies Antibody Antibody is a protein produced in the blood of vertebrates following exposure to an antigen. The antibody binds specifically to the antigen and thus stimulates its inactivation by other parts of the immune system. The major classes of antibody are immmunoglobulin A, or IgA, found predominantly in bodily secretions like saliva; IgM and IgG which are typically produced sequentially in response to microparasitic infections; and IgE which is often elevated in the response to helminth infections. Only IgG is able to cross the placenta to provide maternal immunity. Antibody, protein, exposure to an antigen, antigen, immune system, immunoglobulin A, IgM, IgG, IgA, microparasitic infections, infections, IgE, helminth infections, maternal immunity, miscarriage, habitual miscarriage, unexplained miscarriage Anticardiolipin Antibodies (ACA) An antibody directed against cardiolipin. These are one of the antiphospholipid group of antibodies. They are the most widely accepted and tested for immune factor. Approximately 80% of patients who have an antiphospholipid antibody problem will test positive for anticardiolipin antibodies, but the remaining 20% will test positive for one of the other six antiphospholipid antibodies.
A substance that causes antibodies to form. A protein, typically foreign, that elicits a specific immune response.
Antinuclear Antibodies - antinuclear antibodies react against normal components of the cell nucleus. They may be present in a number of immunologic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain collagen diseases, and in about 1% of normal individuals. If you have systemic lupus erythematosus, it can be transmitted through the placenta to the baby, resulting in heart problems.
Antibodies against ovarian targets. Such antibodies would bind to important functional sites in the ovary and granulosa cells and impair the normal response.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies - antibodies which attack phospholipids.
The presence of Antiphospholipid antibodies may indicate there is an underlying
process that results in recurrent pregnancy loss. Phospholipids work to
hold dividing cells together, and are necessary for growth of the placenta
into the wall of the uterus. They also filter nourishment from the mother's
blood to the baby, and filter the baby's waste back through the placenta.
There are 7 antiphospholipid antibodies: anticardiolipin (ACA),
Antibodies that interfere with thyroid functions, and thus with normal metabolism. They are also indicators for a predisposition of the patient to auto immunity which may involve additional autoimmune problems that interfere with the reproductive process such as ACA, APA, ASA.
Anovulation - failure or absence of ovulation.
Antiovarian Antibodies (AOA, AVA) - antibodies against ovarian targets. Such antibodies would bind to important functional sites in the ovary and granulosa cells and impair the normal response.
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) - a coagulation test performed
by adding a "partial thromboplastin" reagent (contact activating
substance such as silica, phospholipid, and calcium) to citrated plasma,
and measuring the time to clot (normal 25 - 35 seconds). This test is
often used when patients are on medications that thin blood, such as Heparin. A virus which uses Arthropods as vectors and is transmitted in their saliva to the definitive host. For example, yellow fever.
A mild deformity of the uterus that involves the presence of a very small separation in the midline of the fundus (the upper part of the uterus) inside the uterine cavity. This condition is usually not associated with infertility or recurrent miscarriages and therefore it rarely needs any form of therapy.
A term used to describe medical procedures which enhance the opportunity for egg fertilization and pregnancy. Examples include ICSI, IVF, GIFT and ZIFT Several procedures employed to bring about conception without sexual intercourse, including IUI, IVF, GIFT and ZIFT.
Artificial Spermatocoele - an artificial, surgically created pouch used to collect sperm from men with irreversible tubal blockage.
Asherman's Syndrome - a condition where the uterine walls adhere to one another. Usually caused by uterine inflammation.
The absence of sperm and semen
Aspiration - suctioning of fluid. For example, suctioning the fluid from a follicle to retrieve an egg.
ASRM - American Society of Reproductive Medicine
Asthenozoospermia - Low sperm motility. Asymptomatic Asymptomatic - having no symptoms.
Attributable fraction - the reduction in disease when a risk factor is removed. If I* is the number of people that a risk factor is responsible for and I is the total number of cases over the same period, then the etiological fraction is I*/I. Equivalently, the etiological fraction is (I-Io)/I. where Io is the number of cases in the absence of the risk factor. Also known as the Etiological fraction. Disease reduction, disease risk, risk factors, population, etiological fraction, etiology Aunt Flo (AF - menstruation) Aunt Flo - a discharging of blood, secretions, and tissue debris from the uterus that recurs in nonpregnant breeding-age primate females at approximately monthly intervals and that is considered to represent a readjustment of the uterus to the nonpregnant state following proliferative changes accompanying the preceding ovulation. The monthly discharge of blood from the uterus of nonpregnant women from puberty to menopause. The cyclic, physiologic discharge through the vagina of blood and mucosal tissues from the nonpregnant uterus, it is under hormonal control and normally recurs, usually at approximately four week intervals, in the absence of pregnancy during the reproductive period (puberty through menopause) of the female of the human and a few species of primates. It is the culmination of the menstrual cycle. Blood discharge, ovualtion, menstruation, hormonal control, menstrual cycle, reproductive period, nonpegnant uterus Autoimmune Autoimmune - an immune reaction against one's own tissue.
Azoospermia - the complete absence of sperm in ejaculate. It can result from obstruction of the vas deferens (the duct that takes the sperm from the testicles to the urethra) or from failure of the testicles to produce sperm. Obstructive Azoospermia - the result of obstruction in either the upper or lower male reproductive tract (epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles or ejaculatory ducts). Sperm production may be normal (which may be verified through testicular biopsy), but the obstruction is preventing the sperm from being ejaculated. Some causes of obstructive azoospermia are vasectomy, congenital absence of vas deferens, scarring from past infections, and hernia operations. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles. Non-obstructive Azoospermia: Severely impaired or non-existent sperm production in the testicle. Sperm, ejaculate, vas deferens, absence of vas deferens, congenital absence of vas deferens, sperm production, obstruction, male reproductive tract, testicular biopsy, vasectomy, hormones, hormones al dysfunction, azoospermia, semen, infertility, sterility, testicle, obstructive azoospermia, non-obstructive azoospermia B cell White blood cell which produces antibody.
Low dose aspirin (80-100 mg) used in infertility treatment to increase blood flow to the uterus. Often used in conjunction with Heparin in patients with immune problems.
The presence of bacteria in the blood.
A group (as a genus, species, or strain) of bacteria - used chiefly in
nontechnical writing and in news broadcasts usage. Bacteria is regularly
a plural in scientific and pedagogical use; in speech and in journalism
it is also used as a singular <caused by a bacteria borne by certain
tiny ticks -- Wall Street Journal> <more resistant to chlorine and One of the two major classes of prokaryotic organism (the other being the Cyanobacteria). Bacteria are small (linear dimensions of around 1 m), noncompartmentalised, with circular DNA and ribosomes of 70S. Protein synthesis differs from that of eukaryotes and many antibacterial antibiotics interfere with protein synthesis, but do not affect the infected host. Recently bacteria have been subdivided into Eubacteria and Archaebacteria, although some would consider the Archaebacteria to be a third kingdom, distinct from both Eubacteria and Eukaryotes. The Eubacteria can be further subdivided on the basis of their staining using Gram stain. Since the difference between gram-positive and gram-negative depends upon a fundamental difference in cell wall structure it is therefore more soundly based than classification on gross morphology alone (into cocci, bacilli, etc.).
Bacterial Vaginosis - it occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes and an overgrowth of some bacteria normally found in the vagina occurs. It is associated with infertility, miscarriage, pre-term birth, and low-birth weight babies.
Bacterium - any of a group (as kingdom Procaryotae syn. Monera) of prokaryotic unicellular round, spiral, or rod-shaped single-celled microorganisms that are often aggregated into colonies or motile by means of flagella, that live in soil, water, organic matter, or the bodies of plants and animals, and that are autotrophic, saprophytic, or parasitic in nutrition and important because of their biochemical effects and pathogenicity. A tiny, unicellular, prokaryotic organism that reproduces by cell division and usually has a cell wall, can be shaped like a sphere, rod or spiral and can be found in virtually any enviroment. Bacteriuria - the presence of bacteria in the urine with or without consequent urinary tract infection. Since bacteriuria is a clinical entity, the term does not preclude the use of urine/microbiology for technical discussions on the isolation and segregation of bacteria in the urine.
Balanced Translocation is present if a person has the correct number of chromosomes, but the pieces are joined up incorrectly. The problem can be inherited from one parent and then balanced out by the other. If both partners have similar problems, recurrent miscarriage may occur. If patients experience, repeated miscarriage without satisfactory explanation, the examination of chromosomes is in order. It is done through a new technique called Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis -PGD. An early embryo is examined, cultured to approximately 8 cell stage. One cell is carefully removed and its chromosomal make-up examined by Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization -FISH. Only embryos confirmed to be normal and implanted into the uterus. Inheritance, genetics, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, PGD, embryo, balanced translocation, translocation, chromosomes, repeated miscarriages, miscarriages, Genetic Diagnosis, 8 cell stage, chromosomal make-up, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization, FISH Basal body temperature (BBT) Basal body temperature provides indirect evidence of ovulation using a basal temperature chart. The temperature is taken orally with a special thermometer immediately upon awakening and before any activity. It is then recorded on a special graph called temperature chart that enables visualization of different temperature shifts. The temperature will go down to its lowest point 1-2 days prior to ovulation and then rises and remains elevated until a couple of days before impending menstruation. The information provided by temperature taking is useful, but not definitely conclusive. Its value is in providing continuous daily information without a need of physical examinations, ultrasonographic studies, and hormonal testing. It is very important to take the temperatures carefully and daily. And the "price is right". Basal body temperature, body temperature, BBT, ovulation, temperature chart, temperature, special thermometer, thermometer, temperature shifts, special graph, graph, ovulation, impending menstruation, daily information, physical examinations, ultrasonographic studies, hormonal testing, fertility, fertility testing, fertility studies, hormones, pregnancy, conception Basic Reproductive Rate (1) Basic reproductive ratio, Ro, a dimensionless parameter which encapsulates the biological details of different transmission mechanisms. For microparasites, Ro, is defined as the average number of secondary cases of infection to which one primary case gives rise throughout its infectious period if introduced into a defined population consisting solely of susceptible individuals. For macroparasites, Ro, is the average number of female offspring (or just offspring in the case of hermaphroditic species) produced throughout the lifetime of a mature female parasite, which themselves achieve reproductive maturity in the absence of density-dependent constraints on the parasite establishment, survival or reproduction. Also known as the basic reproduction rate, number. (2) Effective reproductive ratio, R, The number of secondary cases (microparasites) or female offspring (macroparasites) produced in a host population not consisting entirely of susceptible individuals (microparasites) or within which density dependent constraints limit parasite population growth (macroparasites). Under conditions of stable endemic infection, R=1.
Birth Control Pills
Beta HCG Test - a blood test used to detect very early pregnancies and to evaluate embryonic development. A beta test usually refers to a quantitative hCG in which the units of hCG are counted, but it sometimes refers to a qualitative (yes/no) test that reads to an hCG level under 50 (level is lab dependent).
Blood Glucose.
A congenital abnormality of the uterus that involves a partial lack of fusion of the two parts of the uterus. A single cervix is present. In the majority of cases it does not cause infertility, but recurrent miscarriages and premature births have been reported in rare instances. If treatment is needed, it is through abdominal surgical repair. A congenital malformation of the uterus where the upper portion (horn) is duplicated.
Birth, Immigration, Death, Emigration: the four demographic processes which might act on a population compartment in a typical compartmental model.
An embryo made up of two groups of cells. One group will develop into the fetus and the other will become the placenta. Following IVF, blastocysts are typically allowed to mature for five days outside the body and then are transferred into the uterus. An embryo that has developed for five days after fertilization. At this point the embryo has two different cell types and a central cavity. The surface cells (trophectoderm) will become the placenta, and the inner cell mass, will become the fetus. A healthy blastocyst should hatch from the zona pellucida by the end of the sixth day. Within about 24 hours after hatching, it should begin to implant into the lining of the uterus.
Allowing in vitro fertilized embryos to reach blastocyst stage, usually 5 days, before transferring the embryos into the uterus.
A cell produced during cleavage of a fertilized egg.
A pregnancy that stops developing very early on. The amniotic sac may only contain fluid and no fetal tissue when the miscarriage occurs. Blood Glucose (BG) Blood sugar. Affected by food that is consumed.
A critical average worm burden below which the mating frequency is too low to maintain a dioecious parasite species.
An oral medication used to reduce prolactin levels and reduce the size of a pituitary tumor when present. This medication often causes dizziness and upset stomach and must be started with a small dose which is gradually increased as needed. This medication is equally effective when the tablet is placed into the vagina.
A long-acting GnRH available in Europe as a nasal spray and used to create the pseudomenopause desirable for reducing the size and number of endometriotic lesions. It can also be used to treat fibroid tumors, PMS, hirsutism, ovulation induction and for in vitro fertilization.
Bloodwork The connecting piece between insulin molecules. The C-peptide level can be used to gauge insulin production in the body.
A plasma protein that can be a marker for inflammatory activity. CAH - Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia A congenital condition characterized by elevated androgens which suppress the pituitary gland and interfere with spermatogenesis or ovulation. Women may have ambiguous genitalia from the excess production of male hormone. Candidiasis (Yeast) An infection that may be uncomfortable and itchy and may impair fertility. The changes that a sperm goes through to be capable of penetrating the layers covering the egg. It involves the sequential time release of a series of enzymes, which allows sperm to digest a passage through loose layers.
An individual who is infected but has no symptoms of disease. There are two types of carrier state: silent carriers retain their infectiousness, while latent carriers are not infectious. For example, many of those infected with tuberculosis are silent carriers, while infection with herpes virus may create latent carriers. Carrying capacity The maximum number of individuals a habitat can sustainably support. Typically defined so as not to include losses from predation or disease.
Computer assisted Semen Analysis A study in which the risk factors of people with a disease are compared with those without a disease.
Type of compartmental model in which the force of infection is treated as a parameter to be estimated.
To destroy tissue with heat, cold, or caustic substances in order to seal off blood vessels or ducts.
A hollow flexible tube used to aspirate or inject fluids. Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens.
This test entails the oral (by mouth) administration of 100 milligrams of clomiphene citrate on menstrual cycle days 5-9. Blood levels of FSH are measured on cycle day 3 and again on cycle day 10. Elevated blood levels of FSH on cycle day 3 or cycle day 10 are associated with very low pregnancy.
Natural Killer Cells (NK, CD56+) - large granular lymphocytes that bond
to cells and lyze (causing dissolution) them by releasing cytotoxins.
NK cells are known to be effective against cells infected with viruses
and some types of tumor cells. When activated, NK cells function to fight,
kill and destroy their targets and their excessive numbers in blood is
correlated with pregnancy loss and reduced success in IVF cycle outcome.
Proliferation of NK cells is produced by gamma interferon, interleukin-2,
antibodies, retinoic acid, and prostoglandin-E. It is thought that NK
cells may produce TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor). Cul de sac or region of the pelvis immediately behind the uterus.
A machine that separates materials with different densities by spinning them at high speed. Used in sperm washing.
A surgical stitch (suture) used to try to keep cervix tightly closed. Used for women with Incompetent Cervix. Cervical Cultures The process of obtaining samples (of secretions) from the cervix and
culturing them on special media to detect the presence of infectious organisms
such as chlamydia, gonococcus and ureaplasma. These sexually transmitted
diseases, if present, can cause infertility by damaging the fallopian
tubes or interfering with implantation of the embryo by affecting the
inside lining of the uterus. They are usually treated with antibiotic
therapy. A thick mucinous secretion that is present inside the cervical canal. It is produced by glandular cells that are present in the cervix. This mucus protects the uterus from invasion by bacteria present in the vagina. It also plays an important role in fertility. The cervical mucus, in response to the estrogen hormone, becomes thin and elastic at the time of ovulation. This allows the sperm to travel through the cervix and the uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube. It also helps the sperm stay alive in the crypts of the cervix for a longer period of time. Thick and dense mucus could prevent the passage of sperm through the cervix. The cervical mucus is checked by the postcoital test.
A sample of the cervical mucus examined microscopically to assess the presence of estrogen (ferning) and white blood cells, indicating possible infection. Cervical Stenosis Narrowing or blockage of the cervical canal in such a way that menstrual
flow can partially or completely be impeded. It is often the result of
cervical injury due to surgery such as a cone biopsy done for an abnormal
pap smear. It can cause infertility by hampering the normal passage of
sperm through the cervix. Inflammation of the cervix.
The part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. It is the segment that is checked for abnormal cells by a pap smear. It is connected to the uterine cavity by a hollow canal called the cervical canal. The cervix secretes mucinous secretions (see cervical mucus) that play a major role in the transport of sperm in its journey towards the egg. Cervix, Incompetent - Incompetent Cervix. A weakened cervix which opens prematurely during pregnancy and can cause
the loss of the fetus. A cervical cerclage is a procedure in which a stitch
or two is put around the cervix to prevent its opening until removed when
the pregnancy is at term. GnRH antagonis, new class of fertility medications (available as Antagon, ganirelix acetate and as cetrorelix acetate) which block the effect of GnRH, resulting in a rapid suppression of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland. CF Cervical Fluid Chemical Pregnancy A pregnancy where hCG levels are detected, but the pregnancy is lost before a heartbeat is seen on an ultrasound. This is a very early miscarriage, often before the woman misses a period.
Drug treatment designed to prevent future occurrences of disease. Treatment
may be chemotherapy as far as an individual is concerned but chemopropylactic
for the population as a whole. Drug treatment of a diseased individual.
A type of bacteria that is frequently transmitted sexually between partners
A cyst in the ovary that is filled with old blood, endometrioma. Occurring
when endometriosis invades an ovary, it causes the ovary to swell. Frequently,
patients with large endometriomas do not have any symptoms. If the cyst
ruptures or the ovary containing the cyst twists, emergency surgery may
be necessary. Usually treatment can be carried out through the laparoscope. An alternative to amniocentesis that can be done earlier in the pregnancy. It is a biopsy of the placenta that is used to check for genetic abnormalities in the fetus. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) A test that is done early during pregnancy to check for the presence of genetic disorders. It involves obtaining a biopsy of the placenta, usually between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. This biopsy is then tested to check for the presence of certain congenital defects, such as Down Syndrome.
His test is usually done in combination with a diagnostic laparoscopy.
It involves injecting colored liquid through the fallopian tubes and watching
the ends of the tubes for the dye. Spillage of dye indicates patent (open)
tubes. The nuclear structure of every living cell. Chromosomes are made up of
genes that govern all the body's functions, and are also responsible for
all the physical characteristics of an individual. Abnormalities of chromosomes
can result in miscarriages or congenital abnormalities. Age affects the
quality of chromosomes in an egg and that is why infertility and miscarriages
are more common in older women. For instance, the incidence of Downs Syndrome
increases when a woman gets older. Every human cell normally has 46 chromosomes.
Human gametes (i.e. eggs and sperm) contain only 23 The structures in the cell that carry the genetic material (DNA); the genetic messengers of inheritance. The human has forty-six chromosomes, twenty-three coming from the egg and twenty-three coming from the sperm.
A chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for certain congenital diseases such as Down's syndrome or spina bifida. A chromosome analysis in which cells are studied to look for abnormalities.
Testing a fetus may show if there is a chromosomal reason for the pregnancy
loss, which causes about 50% of miscarriages. Testing the parents can
help determine if there is an underlying chromosomal problem that increases
the chances of repeated losses, which occurs in about 3% of couples with
recurrent pregnancy loss. This test is usually done in combination with a diagnostic laparoscopy. It involves injecting colored liquid through the fallopian tubes and watching the ends of the tubes for the dye. Spillage of dye indicates patent (open) tubes.
Tiny hairlike projections lining the inside surface of the fallopian tubes. The waving action of these "hairs" sweeps the egg toward the uterus. Cleavage The series of cell divisions, or one of the cell divisions, of the fertilized
egg that results in the formation of the blastomeres and changes the single-celled
zygote into a multicellular embryo. Medication also known under generic name Clomiphene citrate. It is a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone that is commonly used for ovulation induction. It comes in 50 mg tablets that are taken by mouth once a day for 5 days in the early part of the menstrual cycle. It works by stimulating the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. Due to its antiestrogenic actions, some of its effects include abnormal cervical mucus and endometrial lining. The former can interfere with normal passage of sperm through the cervix to reach the egg, and the latter with implantation. Some women may complain of hot flashes (10%), nausea and/or breast discomfort (2-5%). Visual symptoms (blurring) occur rarely (less than 1.5%) but are an indication to discontinue therapy. Clomiphene citrate (Clomid®, Serophene®) Medication also known by the trade names of "Clomid®" and
"Serophene®". A fertility drug that stimulates ovulation
through the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary gland. It is a
synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen hormone that is commonly used for ovulation
induction. It comes in 50 mg tablets that are taken by mouth once a day
for 5 days in the early part of the menstrual cycle. It works by stimulating
the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. Due
to its antiestrogenic actions, some of its effects include abnormal cervical
mucus and endometrial lining. The former can interfere with normal passage
of sperm through the cervix to reach the egg, and the
This test entails the oral (by mouth) administration of 100 milligrams
of clomiphene citrate on menstrual cycle days 5-9. Blood levels of FSH
are measured on cycle day 3 and again on cycle day 10. Elevated blood
levels of FSH on cycle day 3 or cycle day 10 are associated with very
low pregnancy. An infection which requires close contact, other than sexual contact, between susceptible and infectious individuals, for transmission.
A thick mucinous secretion that is present inside the cervical canal. It is produced by glandular cells that are present in the cervix. This mucus protects the uterus from invasion by bacteria present in the vagina. It also plays an important role in fertility. The cervical mucus, in response to the estrogen hormone, becomes thin and elastic at the time of ovulation. This allows the sperm to travel through the cervix and the uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube. It also helps the sperm stay alive in the crypts of the cervix for a longer period of time.T thick and dense mucus could prevent the passage of sperm through the cervix. The cervical mucus is checked by the postcoital test.
Group of viruses that cause enlargement of cells of various organs. Infection
in a fetus can cause jaundice, high-tone deafness, eye problems, malformation,
or fetal death. A herpes virus which causes glandular fever. Certified Nurse Midwife Co-evolution Changes in the genotypes of two or more species that are a direct consequence of the species interaction with one another.
Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation. Cohort A subsection of a population with a common feature, usually age. For
example, all those individuals in the USA born in 1972 form a birth cohort. Examination of the cervix through magnifying telescope to detect abnormal cells
A mathematical model which divides hosts into different compartments according to their infectious state. A typical model for microparasites might be an SEIR model. Sometimes referred to as a prevalence model.
The fertilization of an egg by sperm that leads to the creation of a new being. Conceptus (concepti) Term given to an embryo which has been already implanted in the uterus. Therapy prescribed to reduce the number of sperm antibodies in the woman by using a condom during intercourse for six months or more and by the woman refraining from all skin contact with the husband's sperm. The woman's antibody level may fall to levels that will not adversely affect the sperm. Cone Biopsy A surgical procedure used to remove precancerous cells from the cervix. The procedure may damage the cervix and thus disrupt normal mucus production or cause an incompetent cervix, which may open prematurely during pregnancy. A procedure where precancerous cells are removed from the cervix. Potential risks associated with this procedure include damage to the mucus membranes of the cervix and weakening the cervix so that it is unable to hold the fetus throughout the duration of a pregnancy. Congenital Defect A birth defect, acquired during pregnancy but not necessarily hereditary. Treatment for abnormal or precancerous cells on the cervix in which a cone-shaped section of the cervix is removed. Surgical removal of a cone-shaped portion of the cervix, usually as a treatment for a pre-cancerous condition. Contagious distribution A distribution of parasites amongst hosts is said to be aggregated, or overdispersed, if parasites are found to co-occur in particular hosts more often than if the parasites were distributed at random amongst all hosts. A more precise test would be if the distribution differed significantly from a Poisson distribution; a good heuristic is whether the variance to mean ratio is bigger than unity (in appropriate units). Macroparasites are typically aggregated in their host populations, so that the majority of hosts harbour few or no parasites while a few hosts harbour large parasite burdens. Aggregated distributions are often well described empirically by the negative binomial distribution. Continuing Infertile Someone who has gone through primary infertility, successfully given
birth, and is trying for another child. Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation. Corpus Luteum The yellow-pigmented glandular structure that forms from the ovarian
follicle following ovulation. The gland produces progesterone, which is
responsible for preparing and supporting the uterine lining for implantation.
Progesterone also causes the half-degree or more basal temperature elevation
noted after ovulation. If the corpus luteum functions A follicle that releases an egg at the time of ovulation is subsequently
called the corpus luteum. This is initially a partially cystic space that
later can become a full-blown cyst, and is very active in hormone secretion.
Its major product is progresterone, which is an essential hormone that
prepares the endometrium for implantation. If pregnancy does not occur,
the corpus luteum "dies" roughly 10 to 14 days after ovulation.
The result is a sudden drop in progesterone levels, which leads to menstruation.
If, on the other hand, pregnancy occurs, the newly developing placenta
secretes the HCG hormone (see HCG), which salvages the corpus luteum and
stimulates it to continue producing progesterone. This placental support
of the corpus luteum is indispensable for the first 7 weeks of pregnancy.
From that point on, the placenta starts making its own progesterone and
the corpus luteum is no longer needed. Therefore, it shrinks and becomes
the "corpus albicans". Using fertility medications to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles for ovulation. Also called Superovulation.
Cervical Position. Crude birth rate The number of live births in a year divided by the population size. Crude death rate Freezing quickly and then storing, as in sperm, embryos, and, more recently, unfertilized eggs. Cryptorchidism - undecended testicles. When one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. The failure of the testicles to descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum by one year of age. If not repaired by age six, may result in permanent fertility loss.
Region of the pelvis immediately behind the uterus.
Culture Media - a specially formulated solution that enables growth and
division of a fertilized egg outside of the body until embryo transfer
takes place. The protective layer of cells surrounding the egg. Cushing's Syndrome A condition characterized by an overproduction of adrenal gland secretions. The person will suffer from high blood pressure and water retention as well as a number of other symptoms. A concurrent elevation of adrenal androgens will suppress pituitary output of LH and FSH and result in low sperm production or ovulatory failure. A woman may also develop male secondary sex characteristics, including abnormal hair growth. Cushing's Disease is another condition in which these same symptoms occur, but as the result of a pituitary tumor. CVS - Chorionic Villae Sampling An alternative to amniocentesis that can be done earlier in the pregnancy.
It is a biopsy of the placenta that is used to check for genetic abnormalities
in the fetus. A test that is done early during pregnancy to check for the presence of genetic disorders. It involves obtaining a biopsy of the placenta, usually between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. This biopsy is then tested to check for the presence of certain congenital defects, such as Down Syndrome. Cycle Day The day of a woman's menstrual cycle. The first day (day 1) is when full flow starts before mid-afternoon.
The process of freezing sperm or embryos in extremely low temperatures
(-196°C). This technique has been used for decades to freeze sperm.
It allows the sperm to be quarantined while the donor is tested for transmittable
infectious diseases (such as HIV). The sperm can then be thawed when necessary
and used in artificial insemination. The quality of thawed sperm is not
as good as a fresh sample, but is very acceptable and without negative
effects in the resulting offspring. More recently doctors have been able
to freeze and preserve human embryos, including those resulting from in
vitro fertilization. These embryos can also later be thawed and transferred
back to the uterus. Pregnancy rates with frozen/thawed embryos are not
as high as fresh embryos and range in the 15-30% range. A fluid-filled sac. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) A group of viruses that cause enlargement of cells of various organs. Infection in a fetus can cause jaundice, high-tone deafness, eye problems, malformation, or fetal death. A herpes virus which causes glandular fever. Cytoplasmic Transfer An extension of in vitro fertilization which takes the genetic material
from a mother's egg and combines it with the cytoplasma of a donor egg.
Two methods of cytoplasm transfer were developed, one which transfers
a small amount of cytoplasm by tiny needle from the donor to the recipient
egg, the other transfers a larger amount of cytoplasm which is
An antibody or toxin that attacks the cells of particular organs. The process of gradually dilating the cervix to the point of being able
to introduce a sharp instrument (curette) to scrape the surface of uterine
cavity (endometrium). A suction cannula is also used if the amount of
tissue being removed is large. This procedure is often used to treat abnormal
bleeding, incomplete miscarriages, and abnormal uterine pathology such
as polyps and small fibroids. It is during sedation and sometimes under D&E - Dilation & Evacuation A procedure in which the cervix is dilated and the baby and placenta
are removed. D&E is used to describe two different procedures. One
is similar to a D&C and uses more suction than scraping, and is performed
on first trimester pregnancies. A D&E can also be used to describe
a surgical removal of a fetus between 14-20 weeks gestation as an alternative
to induced labor. Danazol/Danocrine is a synthetic androgen frequently prescribed for treatment of endometriosis. It works by inhibiting the production of Luteinizing hormone LH and Follicle stimulating hormone FSH. That results in diminished levels of estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that support growth and activity of endometrial implants in endometriosis. Since this medication inhibits Luteinizing hormone LH and Follicle stimulating hormone FSH production, a woman will not ovulate nor menstruate while taking the drug. Common side effects include weight gain, acne abnormal hair growth, and oily skin. If the effects become significant the medication can be stopped immediately because it comes in capable form and is taken by month daily. This is an important advantage compared to other medication to treat endometriosis, which is administered by long lasting injection. The side effects reverse within short time. Danazol, Danocrine, luteinizing hormone, follicle, follicle stimulating hormone, synthetic androgen, androgen, treatment of endometriosis, endometriosis, LH, FSH, estrogen, endometrial implants, side effects, progesterone, ovulate, menstruate, hair growth, oily skin, weight gain, acne, abnormal, medication, side effects reverse The first day of a woman's cycle with menses in full flow (not just spotting). Flow should begin before mid-afternoon or the next day would be considered Day 1.
The number of days a woman is past ovulation. Counting begins the day after ovulation, so if ovulation is on Wednesday, Saturday would be 3 DPO. Days Post-Transfer (DPT) The number of days a woman is past embryo transfer. Counting begins the day after transfer, so if is on Monday, Friday would be 4 DPO.
Eggs donated by one woman to another. The host in which a parasite reproduces sexually. Density-dependent Effects whose intensity increases with increasing population density, for example a mortality which becomes very high near a carrying capacity. Effects which become less pronounced at higher population sizes (perhaps the reduction in fecundity caused by the difficulty of mating) are sometimes called inverse density dependent. Density dependent effects are often a cause of nonlinearity in a model.
An injectable medication (such as Lupron Depot) which maintains its effect
for an extended period of time. One injection with a "depot"
medication may last a month or more, and therefore daily injections are
not needed Diethylstilbestrol DES is a synthetic estrogen. It is a medication that was prescribed to pregnant women during the late 1940's to the early 70's to prevent miscarriage. Its use was banned in 1971 in pregnant women because it was found to cause abnormalities and deformities of the reproductive organs in the children of women who took this drug during pregnancy. Many male and female fetuses exposed in utero to this drug developed numerous deformities including blockage of the vas deferens, uterine abnormalities, cervical deformities, miscarriages, dysplasias, and even cancer, and infertility. Research is also looking into effects on DES grandchildren. During an infertility evaluation, you may be asked if your mother took this drug while she was pregnant with you. DES, Diethylstilbestrol, synthetic estrogen, estrogen, pregnant women,
women, miscarriages, abnormalities, deformities, reproductive organs,
pregnancy, blockage of the vas deferens, vas deferens, uterine abnormalities,
cervical deformities, dysplasias, even cancer, infertility A mathematical model in which the parameters and variables are not subject to random fluctuations, so that the system is at any time entirely defined by the initial conditions chosen. Contrast with a stochastic model.
This test is performed when adrenal disease is suspected; it can differentiate adrenal disease (altered response to ACTH) from pituitary disorders (altered production of ACTH). The secretion of ACTH from the pituitary gland is normally regulated by the level of cortisol in the plasma. ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. As plasma cortisol levels increase, ACTH secretion is suppressed, as cortisol levels decrease and ACTH increases. Dexamethasone is a synthetic steroid similar to cortisol, which suppresses ACTH secretion in normal people; giving dexamethasone should reduce ACTH levels resulting in decreased cortisol levels. How the test is performed There are basically 2 ways to give the test: the rapid method and the 6-day method. In the rapid method, 1 mg of dexamethasone is given at 11 P.M., and the blood is drawn at 8 A.M. for a cortisol measurement. If no decrease in the amount of cortisol is seen, the test is repeated with an 8-mg dose of dexamethasone. In the 6-day method, urine is collected at 24-hour intervals over 6 days for measurement of cortisol or 17-OCHS. On day 3, a low dose (0.5 mg) of dexamethasone is given by mouth every 6 hours for 24-hours. On day 5, the procedure is repeated with a high dose (2.0 mg) of dexamethasone. How the test will feel When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. How to prepare for the test The health care provider may advise to discontinue drugs that may affect the test. Drugs that can affect test results include barbiturates, estrogens, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, spironolactone, and tetracyclines. Infants and children: Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a type of androgen that may be found in excessive amounts in women with poly cystic ovaries (PCO). The condition is called poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) can be also found in other conditions of excessive androgen production. Its level may be checked as part of an infertility evaluation. An androgen produced primarily by the adrenal gland but sometimes also by the ovary. The source of DHEA is excessive growth/hyperplasia or hormone producing tumor. A high level suggests too much adrenal androgen output. Dihydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEAS, poly cystic ovaries, PCO, androgen, poly cystic ovarian syndrome, infertility evaluation, infertility, adrenal gland, adrenal, excessive growth, hyperplasia, hormone producing tumor, tumor, PCOS Diethylstilbestrol (DES) A medication that was prescribed to pregnant women during the late 1940's to the early 70's to prevent miscarriage. Its use was banned in 1971 in pregnant women because it was found to cause abnormalities and deformities of the reproductive organs in the children of women who took this drug during pregnancy. During an infertility evaluation, you may be asked if your mother took this drug while she was pregnant with you. A synthetic estrogen prescribed in the 1950s, 1960s, and early 1970s to women to prevent miscarriage. Many male and female fetuses exposed in uterus to this drug developed numerous deformities including blockage of the vas deferens, uterine abnormalities, cervical deformities, miscarriages, and unexplained infertility. DES was banned in 1971 by the FDA in the U.S. for pregnant women.
Artificial insemination with a donor's sperm. A type of androgen that may be found in excessive amounts in women with PCOS, or other conditions of excessive androgen production. Its level may be checked as part of an infertility evaluation. An androgen produced primarily by the adrenal gland. A high level suggests too much adrenal androgen output.
Dilation and curettage, dilation, curettage, D&C, dilating the cervix, uterine cavity, endometrium, cannula, curette, abnormal bleeding, bleeding, miscarriages, uterine pathology, pathology, fibroids, infection, uterine perforation, gynecological operation, operation
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) is a procedure in which the cervix is dilated and the fetus and placenta are removed. Dilation and Evacuation D&E name is used to describe two different procedures. The early one is similar to a D&C uses suction to empty the uterine cavity, and is performed on first trimester pregnancies. The D&E can also be used to describe a surgical removal of a fetus and placenta between 14-20 weeks of gestation. D&E, Dilation and Evacuation, Dilation, Evacuation, cervix, fetus, placenta, abortion, termination, termination of pregnancy, interruption, interruption of pregnancy, pregnancy
Having separate sexes, opposite of monoecious. DIPI - Direct Intra-peritoneal Insemination Injection of sperm into the peritoneal cavity. A form or artificial insemination that may be used with low sperm counts and motility. Direct life cycle A life cycle in which a parasite is transmitted directly from one host to the next without an intermediate host or vector of another species. Direct Oocyte-Sperm Transfer (DOST) Transvaginal retrieval of eggs from the stimulated ovary, just as in
standard IVF. However, following retrieval, instead of inseminating the
eggs with sperm and placing them into the incubator, the eggs are inseminated
and transferred directly into the uterus nonsurgically two hours later.
This allows the eggs to fertilize within the uterus, making it acceptable
for women with damaged, nonfunctional or absent fallopian tubes, just
as in IVF. The debilitating effects on a host of infection by a parasite. Donor Egg Eggs donated by one woman to another. Doxycycline A tetracycline derivative; an antibiotic that inhibits many of the microorganisms infecting the reproductive tract. Often used for treating ureaplasma infections. Many physicians find routine treatment with this antibiotic more cost-effective than performing multiple cultures on both the husband and wife looking for infection.
The number of days a woman is past ovulation. Counting begins the day
after ovulation, so if ovulation is on Wednesday, Saturday would be 3
DPO. Days Post 3-Day Transfer. DPR Days Post-Retrieval.
The number of days a woman is past embryo transfer. Counting begins the day after transfer, so if transfer is on Monday, Friday would be 4 DPT.
Dx - Diagnosis Abnormal function. Dysmenorrhea Painful menstruation. Dyspareunia Difficult or painful coitus. © 2001 Kuska House (concept, script, content)
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