Navigating fertility treatment can be overwhelming, especially when faced with unfamiliar medical terms. Whether you're just beginning your journey with assisted reproduction or preparing to transport your embryos or gametes with a service like Biocouriers, understanding key terminology can help you feel more informed and empowered.
Below is a glossary of the most commonly used terms in the world of IVF:
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
A process in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body, typically in a lab. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
A single sperm is directly injected into an egg to assist fertilization. Often used when sperm quality or quantity is low.
OPU (Oocyte Pick-Up)
The procedure used to retrieve mature eggs from the ovaries after hormonal stimulation. It is done under ultrasound guidance.
ET (Embryo Transfer)
The assisted placement of one or more embryos into the uterus. This typically occurs 3 to 5 days after fertilization.
FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer)
A transfer of an embryo that was previously frozen (cryopreserved). This allows for flexible timing and better cycle planning.
Cryopreservation
The process of freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use. This preserves their viability for years.
Vitrification
An advanced freezing technique that prevents ice crystal formation by cooling the cells rapidly. It significantly increases survival rates after thawing.
Blastocyst
An embryo that has developed for about 5 days and is ready for transfer or freezing. It contains a fluid-filled cavity and is more likely to implant.
Gametes
Reproductive cells: eggs (oocytes) in females and sperm in males.
Zygote
The initial cell formed when a sperm fertilizes an egg. It represents the very beginning of an embryo.
EmbryoScope / Time-Lapse Incubator
A specialized incubator that allows embryologists to monitor embryo development continuously without disturbing them.
PGD / PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis / Testing)
A test done on embryos before transfer to screen for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities. This is useful for detecting inherited diseases.
AH (Assisted Hatching)
A technique used to thin or make a small hole in the embryo's outer shell (zona pellucida) to help it implant more easily in the uterus.
Biochemical Pregnancy
A very early pregnancy confirmed by a positive blood test (hCG), but without ultrasound confirmation. It may result in an early miscarriage.
Donor Cycle
A fertility treatment that uses donated eggs, sperm, or embryos. This is common in cases of low ovarian reserve or genetic concerns.
Cryo Transport Terms
If you are using a service like BioCouriers to transport reproductive cells or embryos, here are a few additional terms to know:
Cryo Tank
A secure container used for transporting frozen reproductive material. It uses liquid nitrogen or vapor to maintain temperatures of around –196°C.
Data Logger
A tracking device that records temperature and location during transport. BioCouriers uses this technology to ensure your samples remain safe.