Fertility Terms You Should Know Ovulation, IUI, IVF, and More

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

If you’re exploring fertility treatments, egg donation, or surrogacy, you’ll quickly encounter medical terms that can be confusing. This glossary of fertility terms helps you understand key concepts used by doctors, clinics, and surrogacy agencies.

Ovulation

Ovulation is when a mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. It typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

IUI is a fertility treatment where sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation. It’s less invasive than IVF and often used for mild male factor infertility or unexplained infertility.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a lab. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus. IVF is commonly used in surrogacy and egg donation.

AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)

AMH is a hormone that reflects a woman’s egg reserve. It’s tested via bloodwork to assess fertility and determine if she qualifies as an egg donor or IVF candidate.

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. High FSH levels may indicate reduced ovarian reserve or early menopause.

Egg Retrieval

A minor surgical procedure done during IVF to collect mature eggs from the ovaries under light sedation.

Embryo Transfer

The placement of an embryo into the uterus (either in the intended mother or a surrogate) as part of the IVF process.

PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing)

A test performed on embryos before transfer to screen for chromosomal abnormalities or to determine sex.

Luteal Phase

The phase after ovulation when the uterine lining prepares for implantation. Hormone support like progesterone may be given during this phase in fertility treatment.

Surrogate

A woman who carries a pregnancy for intended parents. In gestational surrogacy, she has no genetic connection to the baby.

Egg Donor

A woman who provides eggs for use in IVF by another individual or couple. Donors are medically screened and compensated for their time and effort.

Conclusion

Understanding fertility terms empowers you to make informed choices throughout your reproductive journey. At Surrogacy4All, we help demystify these terms and guide you every step of the way.