Endometriosis Dictionary

fallopian tubes: The two tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus ad transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

fertility: The ability to conceive children. In women, the ability not only to conceive, but also to carry a child through pregnancy.

fertility workup: Standard tests and examinations performed to determine possible causes of infertility.

fibromyalgia: A disorder that causes widespread symptoms of pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue, sleep disturbances and headaches.

fimbria: The beginning of a fallopian tube, connected to the ovary.

gamete: A reproductive cell. In women, the gamete is the ovum, or egg. In men, it is the sperm.

genitourinary: Of or related to the genital and urinary systems.

gonadotropins: Any of a group of hormones that stimulate the gonads (the ovaries in women and the testes in men).

gynecologist: A specialist in the treatment of female reproductive and urinary system disorders.

hirsutism: Excessive hair growth, often seen in women with too many androgens, or male sex hormones.

hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus. Removal of the uterus alone is a subtotal hysterectomy. Removal of the uterus and the cervix is a total hysterectomy.

in vitro fertilization: The fertilization of an egg by sperm in a laboratory setting. In vitro literally means "in glass," referring to the Petri dish in which the egg is fertilized.

infertility: The inability to have children.

inflammation: An immune system response characterized by swelling, pain, heat and redness.

insemination: The depositing of sperm into the vagina or cervix.

intra-abdominal: Inside the abdomen.