Glossary
C
Cancelled/abandoned cycle
Cancelled cycles are those where drugs were administered or the patient was prepared for treatment but where egg collection did not take place.
Capacitation
A process that occurs to sperm, which gives them the ability to penetrate and fertilise an egg, as they pass through the female genital tract. This can also be mimicked in a culture medium.
Cell
The basic unit of all living organisms. Complex organisms such as humans are composed of somatic (body) cells and germ line (reproductive) cells.
Cervical mucus
The secretions surrounding the cervical canal. The amount and texture changes during ovulation to allow sperm penetration.
Cervix
The narrow passage at the lower end of the uterus (womb), which connects to the vagina.
Chlamydia
A sexually transmitted disease which can cause damage to the female and male reproductive systems resulting in infertility. Chlamydia may remain undetected for long periods of time.
Chorion
The outer membrane tissue of the primitive placenta.
Chorion villus sampling (CVS)
A procedure, usually between 8 and 12 weeks of pregnancy, by which a small amount of the chorionic villi from the placenta is biopsied for genetic analysis.
Chromosome
A threadlike structure of DNA and associated proteins which is found in the nucleus of a cell. Chromosomes carry genetic information in the form of genes.
Cleavage
The process which occurs to the zygote (cell formed by fertilisation) to result in a blastocyst.
Clomid
A drug used in stimulated DI and IUI cycles.
Clomiphene
A fertility drug which stimulates the production of one or more follicles and therefore increases the chances of pregnancy.
Cloning
The production of two or more genetically identical individuals by nucleus substitution or by mechanical division of a cleaving zygote to yield identical cells each of which can form a new individual. Also known as Cell Nuclear Replacement (CNR).
Congenital malformations
Any malformation which is noticed at birth, whether the result of a genetic (inherited) or environmental cause.
Counselling
Aims to enable patients to understand the implications of infertility treatment, to give emotional support and to help the patient cope with the consequences of treatment.
Corpus luteum
A yellow structure which develops within the ruptured ovarian follicle after the egg has been released. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone.
Cryopreservation
The storage of gametes or embryos by freezing at low temperatures.
Cyclogest
A drug which can be taken rectally or vaginally and supports the hormone levels of patients undergoing fertility treatment following insemination.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
A member of the herpes groups of viruses. Most adults and children who catch CMV have no symptoms, although some people may get a fever, sore throat, fatigue and swollen glands. CMV is of most risk to unborn children of women who get CMV for the first time during pregnancy.
About 7 to 10% of these babies will have symptoms at birth or will develop disabilities including mental retardation, small head size, hearing loss, and delays in development.
Page last updated: 18 July 2012