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- Glossary
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Glossary
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Ectopic Pregnancy
A pregnancy which develops outside of the endometrial cavity. Most commonly these pregnancies form in the fallopian tube. These pregnancies are not viable (compatible with life).
Embryo Culture
The preservation of embryos outside the body in the IVF laboratory.
Embryo Transfer
Replacement of embryos into the endometrial cavity, following in vitro fertilization (IVF). ET is typically done by the transcervical route, 3-5 days after follicle aspiration. ET may also be done by laparoscopy, but this is rarely indicated.
Embryo
The developing individual from conception until approximately the end of the second month.
Embryologist
Laboratory professional who works with oocytes, ova, sperm, zygotes, & embryos.
Endometrial Ablation
Destruction of the endometrium, by any number of methods. Typically this involves ambulatory surgery, where the endometrial lining is either burned with electicity, heat, or frozen in order to diminish or eliminate the amount of uterine bleeding that a woman experiences.
Endometrial Biopsy
An office procedure in which the endometrium (uterine lining) is sampled and sent for pathologic analysis.
Endometrial Cavity
The uterine cavity; where the gestational sac (pregnancy) develops after implantation.
Endometriosis
A disease in which normal endometrial tissue (the lining of the uterus) grows outside of the uterus. This condition is a frequest cause of infertility, pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, and need for hysterectomy.
Endometrium
The inner layer of the uterine wall that contains tubular uterine glands; the structure, thickness, and state of the endometrium undergo marked change with the menstrual cycle.
Estradiol
The primary estrogen produced during reproductive life of a woman.
Estrogen
The dominant female hormone. They are produced mainly by the ovaries, and are responsible for thickening the endometrium during the first half of the menstrual cycle in preparation for ovulation and possible pregnancy.