Glossary
Endocrinology
The study of the glands of the body: thymus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, testicles and ovaries.
Endometrium
The lining of the uterus that swells after ovulation to receive an egg and is sloughed off during menstruation if implantation doesn't take place. "Endometritis" refers to inflammation of the endometrium. "Endometriosis" refers to growth of the endometrium outside the uterus, which can result in damage to the reproductive system and, possibly, infertility.
Epididymis
A thin, coiled, tube-like structure through which sperm travel from the testicles to the vas deferens. "Epididymitis" refers to inflammation of the epididymis.
Estrogen
Hormone that stimulates secondary female sexual characteristics and controls the course of the menstrual cycle. Also produced in low quantities in males.
Fallopian tubes
Ducts through which eggs travel to the uterus once released from the follicle. Sperm normally meet the egg in the fallopian tube, the site at which fertilisation usually occurs.
Fertility specialist
Physician specializing in the practice of fertility. The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology certifies a subspecialty for OB-GYNs who receive extra training in reproductive endocrinology (the study of hormones) and infertility.\r\n
Fertility treatment
Any method or procedure used to enhance fertility or increase the likelihood of pregnancy, such as ovulation induction treatment, varicocele repair (repair of varicose veins in the scrotal sac), and microsurgery to repair damaged fallopian tubes. The goal of fertility treatment is to help couples have a child.
Fertilization
The combining of the genetic material carried by sperm and egg to create an embryo. Normally occurs inside the fallopian tube (in vivo) but may also occur in a Petri dish (in vitro). (See also In Vitro fertilization.)\r\n
