The Definition of Infertility
Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after a full year of trying, or if a woman has repeated miscarriages, then she is also considered to be infertile. Understanding the definition of infertility is just one hurdle that couples who are trying to conceive have to overcome. In the world of infertility treatments, there are a whole variety of terms and names you’ve never heard of. The following is a list of some of the more common infertility-related terminology and definitions you might encounter while undergoing treatments.
ART Cycle ART stands for Assisted Reproductive Technology. This is the medical treatment or procedure that is used to help a woman become pregnant. It can include in vitro fertilization, surrogate birth and egg or embryo donation. The ART cycle is the process that includes first the ART procedure, followed by ovarian stimulation or frozen embryos are thawed before being transferred to the woman.
Diminished Ovarian Reserve This is the name of a diagnosed condition that refers to the ovary’s reduced ability to produce eggs. Your doctor may use this term when discussing your infertility.
Embryo Transfer This term refers to the procedure of placing an embryo into the uterus via the cervix after the in vitro fertilization process. Your infertility specialist may discuss this as an option to impregnate you.
Endometriosis ““ Endometriosis is the term that refers to the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. It can cause pain, adhesions and infertility. Your doctor might mention this as a cause for your infertility.
GIFT (gamete intrafallopian transfer) \ This is an ART procedure in which eggs are removed from the ovary, combined with sperm and then both are placed into the fallopian tube through a tiny incision made in the woman’s abdomen.
Gestational Surrogate A gestational surrogate is a woman who carries to term an embryo from another woman.
ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) This term refers to the procedure that injects a single sperm directly into an egg. This procedure is done when the man is infertile.
Male Factor Low sperm count or any other problems relating to sperm function that can impede the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg, is referred to as the Male Factor.
Immunological Problems When the body’s immune system reacts to a problem, it sends out antibodies to correct the issue. When the immune system overreacts, then it can create autoimmune disorders. One such condition that causes