Starting your fertility journey can feel like learning a new language with all the abbreviations and medical terms thrown around. At Boston IVF, we understand the need for clarity, so we’ve put together a helpful glossary to decode the most common fertility terms and abbreviations you’ll encounter. Whether you’re considering IVF, IUI, or other fertility treatments, knowing these terms can help you feel more confident navigating your reproductive care.

A – Z of Fertility Terms

• AI – Artificial Insemination: A fertility treatment in which sperm is placed directly into a woman’s uterus.
• AMH – Anti-Mullerian Hormone: A hormone that helps assess a woman’s ovarian reserve (the number of eggs remaining).
• ART – Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Medical procedures used to treat infertility, including IVF, IUI, egg freezing, etc.
• IUI – Intrauterine Insemination: A fertility treatment where sperm is directly inserted into the uterus during ovulation.
• ICSI – Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A procedure used in IVF where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
• IVF – In Vitro Fertilization: A process where eggs are fertilized with sperm outside the body and then implanted into the uterus.
• PGT-A – Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy: Testing embryos for chromosomal abnormalities.
• PGT-M – Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders: Testing embryos for specific genetic diseases.
• SA – Semen Analysis: A test to evaluate the quality, quantity, and health of a male's sperm.
• STIMS – Stimulating Hormones: Hormones used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs during an IVF cycle.
• TESE – Testicular Sperm Extraction: A surgical procedure to extract sperm directly from the testicle for use in IVF or ICSI.
• TTC – Trying to Conceive: The process of actively attempting to become pregnant.
• US – Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging method used to monitor the ovaries, uterus, and fetal development.
• And many more! 

Fertility Care at Boston IVF

If you're just starting your fertility journey or exploring options like IVF, ICSI, or genetic testing, understanding these terms is a great first step. Boston IVF is here to guide you through every phase of your reproductive care with expertise and compassion.

To learn more about your fertility options and the treatments we offer, visit us here.

Boston IVF is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions on your path to parenthood. Feel free to reach out with any questions!