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Natural Killer Cells (NK, CD56+)
Natural Killer Cells - large granular lymphocytes that bond to cells and lyse (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)
Necrospermia - condition in which sperm are produced but are found dead in the semen and are unable to fertilize eggs.
Nonsurgical Embryonic Selective Thinning - form of assisted hatching using a chemical to thin the outer membrane of the zona pellucida rather than scraping.
Nitrifying bacteria - bacteria of a family (Nitrobacteraceae) comprising gram-negative bacteria commonly found in the soil and obtaining energy through the process of nitrification. Natural Killer Cells - large granular lymphocytes that bond to cells and lyse (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)
Non-obstructive Azoospermia - severely impaired or non-existent sperm production. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles.
Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - no ovulation induction hormones are used for this process (unlike SCORIF). The egg is removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The egg is mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized egg is then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.
Nonsurgical Embryonic Selective Thinning - form of assisted hatching using a chemical to thin the outer membrane of the zona pellucida rather than scraping.
Non-surgical Sperm Aspiration - the procedure is performed under sedation. A tiny needle is used to extract sperm directly from the testis in those who have blocked ducts or cannot ejaculate. Used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization and ICSI.
Non-stimulated Oocyte Retrieval In (office) Fertilization - no ovulation induction hormones are used for this process (unlike SCORIF). The egg is removed by ultrasound aspiration from the ovaries. This procedure is done in the doctor's office. The egg is mixed with sperm and placed in a small plastic dish and left in the incubator for 2 days. The fertilized egg is then transferred to the uterus through a small plastic catheter.
Novarel - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, regnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle. OB - Obstetrician.
Obstetrician-gynecologist - a physician who specializes in the treatment of female disorders and pregnancy. A doctor who specializes in the diseases and the routine physical care of the reproductive system of women, including treating women through pregnancy and childbirth.
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. Non-obstructive Azoospermia - severely impaired or non-existent sperm production. Some sperm may be found and extracted directly from the testicles.
Oral Contraceptives OD - Ovulatory Dysfunction Ovulatory Dysfunction - a problem existing in the ovary where either something is abnormal in the process of developing the follicle or the egg is not released from the follicle. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome - enlargement of many ovarian follicles due to fertility drugs, causing gross enlargement of the ovaries. It is sometimes accompanied by accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and lungs and abnormal blood tests. It occurs less than 1% of the time in its severe form and requires hospitalization. Studies recently have shown that by using specific protocols, severe forms of this condition can be prevented. Oligomenorrhea Oligomenorrhea - infrequent and irregular menstrual cycles Oligospermia Oligospermia - having few sperm. Oligo-ovulation Oligo-ovulation - infrequent ovulation, usually less than six per year.
Oligomenorrhea - a low sperm count. Oocyte Oocyte (Egg) - the female reproductive cell. Oophorectomy Oophorectomy - surgical removal of the ovaries.
Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place.
Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place. OTC OTC - Over The Counter OV - Ovulation Ovulation - release of an egg from the ovary. The release of the egg (ovum) from the ovarian follicle. Ovarian cyst is a fluid-containing enlargement of the ovary. It is a fluid-filled sac inside the ovary. An ovarian cyst may be found in conjunction with ovulation disorders, tumors of the ovary, and endometriosis. Ovarian Drilling Ovarian Drilling - during a laparoscopy, an electrosurgery needle is used to burn 10-12 small holes into each ovary. This procedure may help reduce androgen levels and restore cycles in women with polycystic ovaries. Ovarian Failure Ovarian Failure is the failure of the ovary to respond to FSH stimulation from the pituitary because of damage to or malformation of the ovary. Diagnosed by elevated FSH in the blood.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is the enlargement of many ovarian follicles due to fertility drugs, causing gross enlargement of the ovaries. It is sometimes accompanied by accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and lungs and abnormal blood tests. It occurs less than 1% of the time in its severe form and requires hospitalization. Studies recently have shown that by using specific protocols, severe forms of this condition can be prevented. Ovarian wedge resection Ovarian wedge resection is the surgical removal of a portion of a polycystic ovary to produce ovulation. The surgical removal of a pie-shaped wedge of a polycystic ovary in order to help ovulation. Ovary Ovary - the female gonad; produces eggs and female hormones.
Ovulation - release of an egg from the ovary. The release of the egg (ovum) from the ovarian follicle. Ovulation Induction Ovulation Induction - medical treatment performed to initiate ovulation. Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK/OPT) Ovulation Predictor Kit - this test is based upon the fact that ovulation is preceded by a sudden increase in the blood concentration of the hormone, LH, which spills over into the urine, and can be measured. Ovulation usually occurs 24 hours following the maximal color change in the urine test that reflects the presence of high concentrations of LH. The instructions on the insert of the particular kit should be read very carefully. The home ovulation test should be performed twice daily (in the morning and 12 hours later in the evening). Depending upon the test kit that is used this could require the purchase of more than one kit per cycle of evaluation. The reason for performing the test on two occasions is to ensure the detection of the LH surge as early as possible. Research has demonstrated that when the home ovulation test is performed only once per day, you may (25% of the time) miss detection of the LH surge or only detect a subtle change in color because you are measuring the LH concentration in the urine after the surge has already taken place. Ovulatory Dysfunction - a problem existing in the ovary where either something is abnormal in the process of developing the follicle or the egg is not released from the follicle.
Ovulatory Failure - failure or absence of ovulation.
Ovum - the sex cell that contains the woman's genetic information, the egg. The reproductive cell from the ovary, the female gamete, the sex cell that contains the woman's genetic information. Progesterone - a naturally occurring hormone, also administered as a
medication in The hormone produced by the corpus luteum during the second half of a woman's cycle. It thickens the lining of the uterus to prepare it to accept implantation of a fertilized egg. It is released in pulses, so the amount in the bloodstream is not constant. P4 (Progesterone) Withdrawal Progesterone Withdrawal a diagnostic procedure used to analyze menstrual irregularity and amenorrhea; uterine "bleeding" that occurs within two weeks after taking progesterone; a procedure used to demonstrate the presence or absence of estrogen and to demonstrate the ability of the uterus and reproductive tract to "bleed." Prior to ovulation induction therapy, progesterone withdrawal may be used to induce a menstrual period. PAI-1 PAI-1 - Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1. Panbypopituitarism - complete pituitary gland failure. Pap smear Pap smear - removal of cells from the surface of the cervix to study Parasite Parasite - an organism living in, with, or on another organism in parasitism. An organism which obtains food and shelter from another organism. Parlodel® (Bromocriptine) Partial Zona Dissection - a predecessor to ICSI in which the zona pellucida, or shell, surrounding a woman's egg is opened, using either chemical dissolution or a sharp instrument to file through the shell, in order to allow easier access for sperm. Can result in too many sperm entering the egg. Patent Patent - open; for example, fallopian tubes should be patent after a sterilization reversal operation. The condition of being open, as with tubes that form part of the reproductive organs. An HSG, for example, is done to see if the fallopian tubes are patent. Paternal Leukocyte Immunization (PLI) Paternal Leukocyte Immunization - injecting a woman with her husband's (or male partner's) white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells. PCAO - Polycystic Appearing Ovaries. PCO - Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS, PCOD, or "Stein-Leventhal Syndrome") Polycystic ovarian syndrome - a condition characterized by multiple ovarian cysts, increased androgen production, and anovulation. A condition found in women who don't ovulate, characterized by excessive production of androgens (male sex hormones) and the presence of cysts in the ovaries. Though PCO can be without symptoms, some include excessive weight gain, acne and excessive hair growth. Post-coital test - a test to check the quality of the cervical mucus
and the sperm in it. It is performed up to 12 hours after intercourse.
It is similar to a Pap smear examination and involves no pain. The patient
presents to the office within 12 hours after intercourse around the time
of ovulation. A small sample of the cervical mucus is then taken and examined.
We look for the amount and elasticity of the mucus. We also look at it
under the microscope to evaluate the number and quality of sperm present
in the sample, as well as the general cellularity of the mucus. A good
test will show ample amount of mucus containing many moving sperm. An
abnormal test may show normal mucus, but the sperm present in it will
have an abnormal pattern of movement (moving in the same place instead
of going forward). An abnormal test can also occur because of low levels
of estrogen hormone, which is crucial in the formation of the cervical
mucus. Treatment of abnormal cervical mucus can include intrauterine insemination,
which bypasses the cervix. Another treatment of abnormal mucus is administration
of estrogen hormone or Pelvic cavity Pelvic cavity - the area surrounded by the pelvic bone that contains the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries in women, and the prostate gland and seminal vesicles in men.
Pelvic inflammatory disease - inflammation of any of the female pelvic organs, usually due to infection from a sexually transmitted disease. An infection of the pelvic organs that causes severe illness, high fever, and extreme pain. PID may lead to tubal blockage and pelvic adhesions. Penetrak Penetrak - a test of how fast sperm can travel up through cow mucus. Penis Penis - the male organ of sexual intercourse. Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration - a small needle is passed directly into the head of the epididymis and fluid is aspirated. Any sperm found are used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization with ICSI. Pergonal® - Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG) Pergonal® - a brand name hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility
medication. A medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Similar to Humegon and Repronex. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.
Perinatologist - a doctor specializing in treating the fetus/baby and mother during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, particularly when the mother and/or baby are at a high risk for complications. Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) - a small needle is passed directly into the head of the epididymis and fluid is aspirated. Any sperm found are used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization with ICSI.
PGD - Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis
Primary Infertility - struggling with infertility without ever having conceived. Popular usage has been extended to include those who have conceived but not had a live birth.
Pelvic inflammatory disease - inflammation of any of the female pelvic organs, usually due to infection from a sexually transmitted disease. An infection of the pelvic organs that causes severe illness, high fever, and extreme pain. PID may lead to tubal blockage and pelvic adhesions. Progesterone in Oil.
Pituitary gland - a small gland present at the base of the brain. It receives instructions from another gland in the brain known as the hypothalamus. The pituitary secretes many important hormones, such as FSH, LH, TSH, and prolactin. FSH and LH control the ovaries, TSH controls the thyroid gland, and prolactin controls milk production. The master gland; the gland that is stimulated by the hypothalamus and controls all hormonal functions. Located at the base of the brain just below the hypothalamus, this gland controls many major hormonal factories throughout the body including the gonads, the adrenal glands, and the thyroid gland. Placenta Placenta - the embryonic tissue that implants in uterine wall and provides a mechanism for exchanging the baby's carbon dioxide and waste products for the mother's nutrients and oxygen. The baby is connected to the placenta by the umbilical cord.
Paternal Leukocyte Immunization - injecting a woman with her husband's (or male partner's) white blood cells to increase her fetal blocking antibodies and lower her NK cells. PMS - Pre-menstrual Syndrome Pre-menstrual Syndrome - emotional and physical disturbances that occur after ovulation and usually end with menstruation. PNM Perinatal Mortality. POC - Products of Conception Products of Conception - tissues resulting from a pregnancy, such as the embryo/fetus and placenta. The term is often found on pathology reports where miscarriages are analyzed. Premature Ovarian Failure - cessation of menstruation due to depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. It is one of the most common causes for infertility requiring egg donation. It can run in families and be associated with other disease processes such as thyroid disease or lupus. The cessation of menses associated with high levels of gonadotropins and low levels of estrogen before age 40. The ovary may intermittantly produce mature follicles.
Polar Body - the discarded genetic material resulting from female germ cell division. Polyp Polyp - a growth or tumor, usually benign, on an internal surface such as the uterine wall.
Polyspermy - more than one sperm entering and fertilizing an egg. Post-coital test - a test to check the quality of the cervical mucus
and the sperm in it. It is performed up to 12 hours after intercourse.
It is similar to a pap smear examination and involves no pain. The patient
presents to the office within 12 hours after intercourse around the time
of ovulation. A small sample of the cervical mucus is then taken and examined.
We look for the amount and elasticity of the mucus. We also look at it
under the microscope to evaluate the number and quality of sperm present
in the sample, as well as the general cellularity of the mucus. A good
test will show ample amount of mucus containing many moving sperm. An
abnormal test may show normal mucus, but the sperm present in it will
have an abnormal pattern of movement (moving in the same place instead
of going forward). An abnormal test can also occur because of low levels
of estrogen hormone, which is crucial in the formation of the cervical
mucus. Treatment of abnormal cervical mucus can include intrauterine insemination,
which bypasses the cervix. Another treatment of abnormal mucus is administration
of estrogen hormone or Posttesticular System Posttesticular System - the ducts that store and deliver the sperm to the opening of the penis; also includes the glands that produce seminal fluids.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - a psychological disorder that develops in some individuals after a major traumatic experience such as war, rape, domestic violence, or accident. There are some articles written about PTSD as a complication of infertility or as a result of pregnancy loss. Some symptoms include avoidance, guilt, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and excessive irritability. Pre-embryo Pre-embryo - a fertilized egg in the early stage of development prior to cell division. Preclinical Pregnancy Preclinical Pregnancy - an early loss that ends before the next period is due. There are usually no pregnancy symptoms, but a blood test can reveal small amounts of the pregnancy hormone HCG. Also called Chemical Pregnancy.
Pregnyl - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.
Premature Ovarian Failure - cessation of menstruation due to depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. It is one of the most common causes for infertility requiring egg donation. It can run in families and be associated with other disease processes such as thyroid disease or lupus. The cessation of menses associated with high levels of gonadotropins and low levels of estrogen before age 40. The ovary may intermittantly produce mature follicles.
Premature Rupture of Membranes - spontaneous rupture of fetal membranes at least one hour before the onset of labor. Characterized by a trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina.
Prenatal - the period between conception and birth. Same as antenatal. Pretesticular System Pretesticular System - the male hormonal system responsible for stimulating sperm production and the development of male secondary sex characteristics. Prevalence models Prevalence models are compartmental models dividing the host population into, for example, susceptible, latent, infectious and immune individuals.
Primary Infertility - struggling with infertility without ever having conceived. Popular usage has been extended to include those who have conceived but not had a live birth. Products of Conception - tissues resulting from a pregnancy, such as the embryo/fetus and placenta. The term is often found on pathology reports where miscarriages are analyzed.
Profasi® - brand name hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone is produced naturally during early pregnancy, and is also available as an injectable medication (under the brand names Novarel, Pregnyl® and Profasi®) to help mature eggs and trigger ovulation in fertility treatments. HCG causes the eggs in the developing follicles to mature and detach from the wall of the follicle. Therefore, when the ultrasound-guided egg retrieval takes place 35 hours after administration, the egg is floating in the fluid of the follicle and is easier to be aspirated by a needle.
Progestin - a synthetic progesterone.
Prolactin - a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Its major role is to control milk production; however it can interfere with normal ovulation if present in high amounts. Prolactin levels are therefore checked in every woman during the evaluation process for infertility. Certain women have elevated prolactin levels due to a tumor in the pituitary gland or the brain. These tumors are often called prolactinomas. They are usually easily treated by a medication called bromocriptine (Parlodel®). In rare instances, surgery may be required. PROM - Premature Rupture of Membranes Premature Rupture of Membranes - spontaneous rupture of fetal membranes at least one hour before the onset of labor. Characterized by a trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina.
A study in which people are initially enrolled and then followed up at subsequent times. Prostaglandins Prostaglandins - hormone-like substances found in men and women. It is hypothesized that prostaglandins secreted by active, young endometrial implants may interfere with the reproductive organs by causing muscular contractions or spasms. Also, prostaglandins not "washed" from sperm can cause severe cramping during IUI procedures.
Prostate gland - the male gland encircling the urethra that produces one third of the fluid in the ejaculate, including a chemical that liquefies the coagulated semen twenty minutes to one hour after entering the vagina. Prostaglandins Prostaglandins - a group of hormone-like chemicals that have various effects on reproductive organs; so named because they were first discovered in the prostate gland.
Protozoan - a unicellular eukaryote.
Provera - a synthetic progesterone. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - a psychological disorder that develops in some individuals after a major traumatic experience such as war, rape, domestic violence, or accident. There are some articles written about PTSD as a complication of infertility or as a result of pregnancy loss. Some symptoms include avoidance, guilt, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and excessive irritability. Pure FSH (Metrodin) Pure FSH - an injectable form of Follicle Stimulating Hormone used to stimulate ovulation. Pyospermia Pyospermia - the presence of white cells in the semen indicates possible infection and/or inflammation. PZD - Partial Zona Dissection Partial Zona Dissection - a predecessor to ICSI in which the zona pellucida, or shell, surrounding a woman's egg is opened, using either chemical dissolution or a sharp instrument to file through the shell, in order to allow easier access for sperm. Can result in too many sperm entering the egg.
Qualitative hCG Test - a pregnancy test that gives a yes or no answer. Home pregnancy tests are qualitative.
Quantitative beta-HCG assay - a pregnancy test which measures the level of HCG present in the blood. This test can be used to detect an early pregnancy. Quantitative hCG Test Quantitative hCG Test - a pregnancy test in which the units of hCG are measured.
A period during which an infection is present but not active within a host: for example the period between an acute attack of chickenpox (varicella) and a subsequent recrudescence of shingles (zoster); not the same as latency. Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.
Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.
Radiation - a general term for any form of radiant (emitting beams of light) energy emission. Ionizing radiation has the ability to penetrate cells and deposit energy and can cause radiation injury to the cells.
The number of events happening divided by the length of time over which
they Ratio Ratio - 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.
Reproductive endocrinologist - an OB-GYN who specializes in the treatment of hormonal disorders that affect reproductive function. A medical specialty combining obstetrics and gynecology with endocrinology to treat reproductive disorders. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Reactive Oxygen Species - oxygen free radicals. High levels of ROS generation are linked a reduced ability of sperm to bind to the zona pellucida. Vitamin E may significantly improve this aspect of sperm function. Recipient Recipient - a women who receives the fertilized eggs (often by her husband's sperm) from an egg donor. These embryos are transferred to her uterus after a 2-3 week period of hormonal preparation to have the uterus ready to accept these embryos. The recipient is considered the biological mother since she will carry, nourish and deliver the infant.
Recombinant (Human) Follicle Stimulating Hormone - genetically engineered follicle stimulating hormone as opposed to FSH extracted from the urine of post menopausal women. It is synthesized in vitro by cells into which genes encoding for FSH subunits have been inserted. Brand names are Gonal-F and Follistim.
Recrudescence - reappearance of disease in a host whose infection has been quiescent.
Recurrent Miscarriage - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term. Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term. Relative risk (RR) The proportion of diseased people amongst those exposed to the relevant risk factor divided by the proportion of diseased people amongst those not exposed to the risk factor. This should be used in those cohort studies where those with and without disease are followed to observe which individuals become diseased.
Reproductive ratio - 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. 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.
Reproductive surgeon - an OB-GYN or Urologist who specializes in the surgical correction of anatomical disorders that impair reproductive function.
Repronex - a brand name hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) fertility medication. Injectable medications consisting of luteinizing (LH) and follicle stimulating (FSH) hormones recovered from the urine of postmenopausal women and are used to induce the development of multiple follicles in various fertility treatments. (Available under the brand names Humegon, Pergonal®, and Repronex). Resistance Resistance - the reduction, due to genetic selection, of susceptibility of a parasite or its vector to chemotherapy. The ability of a host to resist a pathogen. Retrograde ejaculation Retrograde ejaculation - ejaculation backwards into the bladder instead of forward through the urethra. Retrograde Ejaculation - a male fertility problem that allows the sperm
to
A study in which people are enrolled and then have their history of risks, infections or disease measured.
The proportion of diseased people amongst those exposed to the relevant risk factor divided by the proportion of diseased people amongst those not exposed to the risk factor. This should be used in those cohort studies where those with and without disease are followed to observe which individuals become diseased. Reproductive Immunologist (RI) Reproductive Immunologist - a medical specialty combining obstetrics and gynecology with immunology to treat reproductive disorders that are related to immune problems.
Reproductive Immunophynotype - a test which looks for cells that have the CD56+ marker in order to determine the portion of natural killer cells. An NK (CD56+) cell range above 12 percent is abnormal. Repronex - a medication used to replace the pituitary hormones LH and FSH. Similar to Humegon and Pergonal. May be used to induce ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate. Most frequently used with women who do not normally produce estrogen because of a pituitary gland or hypothalamic malfunction. May also be used with men to stimulate sperm production.
Resistant Ovary - an ovary that cannot respond to the follicle-stimulating message sent by FSH. Primitive germ cells will be present in the ovary; however, they will not respond to FSH stimulation.
Retroverted Uterus - uterus that is tilted back toward the rectum. Reversal Reversal - undoing a sterilization procedure such as a tubal ligation or vasectomy. Rh Factor - any of one or more genetically determined antigens present inthe red blood cells of most persons and capable of inducing intenseimmunologic reactions. Some women develop a sensitization to Rh duringpregnancy. If a woman is Rh negative and her husband is Rh positive, she isa candidate for Rh incompatibility problems. After the first pregnancy, theRh factor enters the Rh-negative mother's circulatory system during thedelivery (or miscarriage) of a child who has inherited the Rh factor fromhis father. The mother's body then produces antibodies against it. If shebecomes pregnant with another Rh-positive baby, the antibodies cross theplacenta and attack the baby's red blood cells, causing mild to seriousanemia in the baby.
Rhogam - an immunization given to Rh-negative women after amiscarriage, stillbirth, or live birth to prevent production of antibodiesin any Rh-positive babies they may have in future pregnancies.
Reproductive Immunologist - a medical specialty combining obstetricsand gynecology with immunology to treat reproductive disorders that arerelated to immune problems.
Reproductive Immunophynotype - a test which looks for cells that havethe CD56+ marker in order to determine the portion of natural killer cells.An NK (CD56+) cell range above 12 percent is abnormal. Reactive Oxygen Species - oxygen free radicals. High levels of ROS generation are linked a reduced ability of sperm to bind to the zona pellucida. Vitamin E may significantly improve this aspect of sperm function.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.
Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion - repeated miscarriages. Testing can be done to try to determine the cause of such losses. If an underlying condition is found, the woman may need to be treated for the problem before a pregnancy can be carried to term.
Rx - Prescription © 2001 Kuska House (concept, script, content) |
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