Reproductive Endocrinology Glossary
100 terms total — 24 showing — Last updated 15 Sep 2026
blastocyst
Advanced embryo stage with fluid-filled cavity, typically developing 5-6 days after fertilization.
adenomyosis
A gynecologic condition where endometrial tissue grows within the myometrium, potentially affecting fertility and requir...
aneuploidy
Chromosomal abnormality involving an incorrect number of chromosomes in an embryo or gamete.
anovulation
The absence of ovulation in a menstrual cycle. A key diagnostic finding in fertility assessments.
anteverted uterus
A uterus that tilts forward toward the bladder, the most common anatomical position.
anti-Müllerian hormone
Biomarker produced by ovarian follicles used to assess ovarian reserve and reproductive potential.
antral follicle count
Ultrasound measurement of small ovarian follicles to assess egg reserve. A standard component of fertility evaluation.
assisted reproductive technology
Medical procedures used to address infertility, including IVF, ICSI, and embryo transfer.
azoospermia
Complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, requiring careful editorial distinction from oligozoospermia.
beta hCG
A blood test measuring the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone to confirm and monitor early pregnancy.
biochemical pregnancy
Pregnancy detected only by hormone levels without ultrasound visualization, typically ending in early miscarriage.
blastocyst
Advanced embryo stage with fluid-filled cavity, typically developing 5-6 days after fertilization.
cleavage stage embryo
Early embryo developmental stage from day 1-3 post-fertilization characterized by cell division without growth.
competent cervix
A cervix that maintains adequate closure throughout pregnancy, contrasted with cervical incompetence.
controlled ovarian hyperstimulation
Hormone therapy protocol to stimulate multiple egg development for fertility treatments.
corpus luteum insufficiency
Inadequate progesterone production by the corpus luteum, leading to poor endometrial development and potential pregnancy...
cryopreservation
The process of preserving reproductive cells, tissues, or embryos at extremely low temperatures for future use in fertil...
cumulus cells
Specialized cells surrounding the oocyte that support its development and indicate oocyte maturity during IVF procedures...
cumulus-oocyte complex
The structural unit consisting of an oocyte surrounded by layers of cumulus cells within the ovarian follicle.
day 3 transfer
Embryo transfer performed three days after egg retrieval when embryos are at the cleavage stage (6-8 cells).
decidualization
The transformation of endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells in preparation for implantation.
diminished ovarian reserve
Condition characterized by reduced quantity or quality of eggs relative to chronological age.
ectopic pregnancy
Implantation of an embryo outside the uterine cavity. A serious complication requiring immediate medical intervention.
embryo transfer
Procedure to place fertilized embryos into the uterus during ART cycles.
endometrial biopsy
Diagnostic procedure involving sampling of the endometrial lining to assess hormonal effects and tissue quality.