When you decide to pursue infertility treatment, you and your partner may feel overwhelmed by the process. The appointments, tests, and terminology can make you feel like you are in the middle of a science fiction movie. At IVF Plano, Dr. Jim Douglas and our team will help answer your questions and explain each step so that you feel comfortable each step of the way.

Terms You Should Know

Some of the common words and phrases used during infertility treatment appear in the following list:

Azoospermia

Often caused by a blockage or an issue with normal production, azoospermia is the absence of sperm in the seminal fluid.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

Used for severe cases of male factor infertility, ICSI is the injection of a single sperm into the center of an egg with a sharp glass needle.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

The insertion of washed and cleaned sperm into the uterus through the cervix using a catheter.

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

The process of harvesting eggs and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory for the purpose of creating embryos that will be transferred back to the uterus.

Ovulation Induction

Infertility treatment that utilizes hormone therapy such as Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid), letrozole (Femara), or injectable gonadotropins to stimulate egg development and release.

Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE)

The formal term for your fertility specialist, an RE is a physician with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of reproductive disorders. Fertility specialists complete a residency in obstetrics and gynecology as well as two to three years of additional training in reproductive endocrinology.

Whether you are just beginning to navigate the world of infertility or you are becoming a seasoned pro, understanding the vocabulary used by your fertility specialist will help you make informed decisions along the way.

For more information, please visit www.ivfplano.com. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Douglas, contact our office.

coping with infertility, fertility specialists, fertility treatment, Infertility Lingo, Infertility terms | Infertility terms