Glossary
Fibroid tumor
Benign (not malignant or life-threatening) tumor of fibrous tissue that can occur in the uterine wall. May be totally without symptoms or may cause abnormal menstrual patterns or infertility.\r\n
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
A pituitary hormone that stimulates follicular development and spermatogenesis (sperm development). In the woman, FSH stimulates the growth of the ovarian follicle. In the man, FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testicles and supports sperm production. Elevated FSH levels are associated with gonadal failure in both men and women.
Follicles
Fluid-filled sacs in the ovary, which contain the eggs released at ovulation. Each month an egg develops inside the ovary in a follicle.\r\n
Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
After egg retrieval, the eggs are mixed with sperm and then placed, using a minor surgical procedure (laparoscopy), into the woman's fallopian tubes for in vivo fertilization.
Gestation
The period of development of the new organism from conception to the end of pregnancy and birth.
Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH)
A substance secreted every ninety minutes or so by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. This hormone enables the pituitary to secrete LH and FSH, which stimulate the gonads.
Gonadotropins
Hormones that control reproductive function: Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone.
Hormone
A chemical produced by an endocrine gland that circulates through the blood and has a widespread affect throughout the body.
