Glossary

Intratubal Insemination (ITI)

Artificial insemination in which the sperm are placed into the fallopian tubes instead of the vagina (the most common target of artificial insemination).

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

A procedure in which a doctor places sperm directly into the uterus through the cervix using a catheter.

Karyotyping

A test that analyzes chromosomes to determine if there is a genetic basis for repeated miscarriages.

Laparoscopy

Examination of the pelvic region by using a small telescope called a laparoscope.

Luteal Phase

The postovulation phase of the menstrual cycle. "Luteal phase defect" refers to the inadequate production of hormones during this phase to support a pregnancy.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A pituitary hormone that stimulates the gonads. In the man, LH is necessary for spermatogenesis and for the production of testosterone. In the woman, LH is necessary for the production of estrogen.

Luteinizing Hormone Surge (LH SURGE)

The release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature egg from the follicle.

Menarche

The time when a woman has her first menstruation.

Menopause

The time when a woman ceases to menstruate for natural, age-related reasons.

“I was 5 months pregnant when I disvocer about Elastin 3 in my prenatal check up. I always has stretchmarks…”

~Sheila Swenson