E
ECTOPIC
PREGNANCY
A pregnancy outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian
tube. Such a pregnancy can rarely be sustained, and often
leads to decreased or complete loss of function in the affected
tube. Methotrexate is now used to dissolve the pregnancy
without causing major damage to the tube.
EGG
RETRIEVAL A procedure used to obtain eggs from ovarian
follicles for use in In vitro fertilisation. The procedure
may be performed during laparoscopy or by using a long needle
and ultrasound to locate the follicle m the ovary.
EJACULATE
The semen and sperm expelled during ejaculation.
EMBRYO
The early products of conception; the undifferentiated beginnings
of a baby; the conceptus.
EMBRYO
TRANSFER Placing an egg fertilised outside the womb
into a woman's uterus or fallopian tube.
EMPTY
SELLA SYNDROME A condition that occurs when spinal fluid
leaks into the bony chamber (fossa) housing the pituitary
gland. The fluid pressure compresses the pituitary gland
and may adversely affect its ability to secrete LH and FSH
and may elevate prolactin levels.
ENDOMETRIAL
BIOPSY A test to check for Luteal Phase Defect. A procedure
during which a sample of the uterine lining is collected
for microscopic analysis. The biopsy results will confirm
ovulation and the proper preparation of the endometrium
by estrogen and progesterone stimulation
ENDOMETRIOSIS
A condition where endometrial tissue is located outside
the womb. The tissue may attach itself to the reproductive
organs or to other organs in the abdominal cavity. Each
month the endometrial tissue inbreeds with the onset of
menses. The resultant irritation causes adhesions in the
abdominal cavity and in the fallopian tubes. Endometriosis
may also interfere with ovulation and with the implantation
of the embryo.
ENDOMETRIUM
The lining of the uterus which grows and sheds in response
to estrogen and progesterone stimulation; the bed of tissue
designed to nourish the implanted embryo.
ENDORPHINS
Natural narcotics manufactured in the brain to reduce sensitivity
to pain and stress. May contribute to stress related fertility
problems.
EPIDIDYMIS
A coiled, tubular organ attached to and lying on the testicle.
Within this organ the developing sperm complete their maturation
and develop their powerful swimming capabilities. The matured
sperm leave the epididymis through the vas deferens.
ESTRADIOL
The principal estrogen produced by the ovary. Responsible
for formation of the female secondary sex characteristics
such as large breasts; supports the growth of the follicle
and the development of the uterine lining. At midcycle the
peak estrogen level triggers the release of the LH spike
from the pituitary gland. The LH spike is necessary for
the release of the ovum from the follicle. Fat cells in
both obese men and women can also manufacture estrogen from
androgens and interfere with fertility. The blood test to
monitor estradiol is E2 Rapid Assay. Women on Menogon and
other fertility drugs have routine E2 monitoring.
ESTROGEN
Female sex hormone.
