Lexicon

A variant of the normal uterus for some experts, classified by others as a septate uterus.

A common uterine abnormality that is characterized by the formation of two uterine cavities. The uterus has a V shape instead of the inverted pear shape.

The development stage of an embryo 5 to 7 days after fertilization.

A chromosomal translocation is a condition in which part of a chromosome is swapped or has broken off and reattached in another location. 

Formed from the follicle that has just released a mature ovum (or egg). It secretes oestrogen and progesterone, which are both necessary for the proper course of pregnancy.

A conservation process where cells, embryos or tissues are preserved by cooling to very low temperatures (-196°C) for use in the future.

Deoxyribonucleic acid. Found in chromosomes, this macromolecule carries an individual’s genetic information.

The semen discharged during ejaculation.

First development stage of an organism, from fertilization to complete differentiation of the organs, at the 8 th week of pregnancy.

(or Uterine) : This cycle prepares the endometrium to receive the embryo in the event of fertilization. The start of the uterine cycle occurs with menstruation.

Abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus that can spread to the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.

The mucous membrane lining the internal wall of the uterus.

A medical imaging technique in which an ultrasonic probe is placed into the vagina to examine the uterus and ovaries.

A duct located behind the testes. It allows for the conservation, maturation and transportation of sperm outside the body during ejaculation.

Freezing or cryopreservation of gametes (eggs or sperm) to use in the future.

Located inside the ovaries, these tiny pockets of fluid contain the ova (or eggs).

A reproductive cell. The egg in women and the sperm in men.

Hormones secreted by the pituitary gland, acting on the ovarian functions (i.e. LH – luteinizing hormone and FSH – follicle-stimulating hormone).

Chemical messengers secreted by certain specialized glands. They influence the functioning of organs located in other areas of the organism.

Intra cytoplasmic sperm injection. This technique involves inserting a sperm into an egg using a very fine pipette to fertilize it

Intrauterine insemination. This painless procedure involves the insertion of motile sperm directly into the uterus through a catheter

In vitro fertilization. Assisted reproduction technology which consists in fertilizing an egg with a sperm in the lab.

A genetic mutation characterized by the deletion of genetic material on a chromosome.

(or ovum): A female reproductive cell contained in an ovary.

A series of biological events that take place each month in one of the two ovaries. The objective is to produce a mature oocyte.

The hormones secreted by the ovaries: oestrogen, progesterone and inhibin.

Complication related to the injection of hormones intended to stimulate ovulation in order to collect eggs.

Stimulation of ovulation using specialized drugs, such as anti-estrogens and gonadotropins.

(or oocyte): A female reproductive cell contained in an ovary.

(adj. pelvic): The lower part of the trunk, including the lower abdomen and genital area.

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis. Genetic analysis of cells from the biopsied embryo. Healthy embryos that do not have a genetic defect can be transferred into the uterus afterward.

Caused by a hormonal imbalance in women, this syndrome is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, increased facial and body hair, and the presence of acne. Numerous immature follicles are visible using ultrasound.

(or spermiogram) : Microscopic analysis of the sperm to evaluate mobility, concentration and the general condition of sperm.

The formation of a blood clot in a vein or artery.

A uterus that has a single fallopian tube and therefore a single ovary, instead of two.

Benign (non-cancerous) tumours located on the wall of the uterus.

A varicocele is a variation of “normal” anatomy in which veins in the scrotum (the sac that holds the testicles) become enlarged and sometimes even visible. A varicocele can lead to reduced fertility or scrotal pain.

ZyMōt™ simulates the natural sperm migration in the female reproductive system. In order to imitate nature, ZyMōt™ facilitates the separation and preparation of motile sperm in assisted reproductive procedures.