Fertility Glossary — Key Terms Explained

A plain-language glossary of the most common medical terms, acronyms, and test names you will encounter during fertility investigations and treatment.

Tests & Measurements

AFC (Antral Follicle Count): Count of small follicles (2–10 mm) visible on ultrasound. Reflects remaining egg supply.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Blood test measuring ovarian reserve. Higher = more eggs remaining.
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Elevated FSH on Day 3 suggests low reserve.
LH (Luteinising Hormone): Mid-cycle LH surge triggers ovulation.
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): For fertility, ideally <2.5 mIU/L.
HSG (Hysterosalpingogram): X-ray with dye to assess tubal patency and uterine shape.

Procedures

IUI: Washed sperm placed directly in uterus at time of ovulation.
IVF: Eggs fertilised with sperm in the laboratory; embryos transferred to uterus.
ICSI: Single sperm injected directly into an egg. Used for male factor.
FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer): Transfer of a previously frozen and thawed embryo.
TESA/PESA/mTESE: Surgical sperm retrieval procedures for azoospermia.

Genetics

PGT-A: Tests embryos before transfer for chromosomal abnormalities.
PGT-M: Tests embryos for a specific inherited single-gene disorder.

Common Conditions

PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
POI/POF: Premature Ovarian Insufficiency / Failure
OHSS: Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
RPL: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
OAT: Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (low count + motility + morphology)
NOA: Non-obstructive Azoospermia