L
LAPAROSCOPE
A small telescope that can be inserted into a hole in the
abdominal wall for viewing the internal organs; the instrument
used to perform a laparoscopy. Used to diagnose and treat
a number of fertility problems including endometriosis,
abdominal adhesions, and polycystic ovaries. Also used in
egg retrieval for in vitro fertilisation. Examination of
the pelvic region by using a laparoscope is called a laparoscopy.
LAPAROTOMY
Major abdominal surgery where reproductive organ abnormalities
can be corrected and fertility restored, such as tubal repairs
and the removal of adhesions.
LEYDIG
CELL The testicular cell that produces the male hormone
testosterone. The Leydig cell is stimulated by LH from the
pituitary gland.
LUTEAL
PHASE Postovulatory phase of a womans cycle. The corpus
luteum produces progesterone, which cause the uterine lining
to thicken to support the implantation and growth of the
embryo.
LUTEAL
PHASE DEFECT (OR DEFICIENCY) (LPD) A condition that
occurs when the uterine lining does not develop adequately
because of inadequate progesterone stimulation; or because
of the inability of the uterine lining to respond to progesterone
stimulation. LPD may prevent embryonic implantation or cause
an early abortion.
LUTEINIZED
UNRUPTURED FOLLICLE (LUF) SYNDROME A condition
in which the follicle develops and changes into the corpus
luteum without releasing the egg.
LUTEINIZING
HORMONE (LH) A pituitary hormone that stimulates the
gonads. In the man LH is necessary for spermatogenesis (Sertoli
cell function) and for the production of testosterone (Leydig
cell function). In the woman LH is necessary for the production
of estrogen. When oestrogen reaches a critical peak, the
pituitary releases a surge of LH (the LH spike), which releases
the egg from the follicle.
LUTEINIZING
HORMONE SURGE (LH SURGE) The release of luteinizing
hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature egg from the
follicle. Ovulation test kits detect the sudden increase
of LH, signaling that ovulation is about to occur (usually
within 24-36 hours).
