Glossary

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Hirsutism

The growth of excessive bodily and facial hair in women, in a male pattern. Typically arises as a result of androgen excess from hormonal imbalances, tumors or drugs.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

A hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy; its detection is the basis for most pregnancy tests. Also used during ovulation induction/augmentation to trigger ovulation.

Human Menopausal Gonadotropins

An injectible hormone medication used in COS. It contains equal amounts of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone and is derived from the urine of postmenopausal women.

Hypothalamus

A thumb-sized area in the base of the brain that controls many body functions and regulates the pituitary gland.

Hysterectomy

The surgical removal of the uterus.

Hysterosalpingogram

A radiographic (X-ray) procedure in which a special dye is injected into the uterus to illustrate the inner contour of the uterus and degree of openness (patency) of the fallopian tubes. This is the best “screening test” for tubal factor infertility.

Hysteroscopy

Visual instrumental inspection of the cervical canal and uterine cavity through a hysteroscope (telescope).