What Do They Mean? IVF Medical Abbreviations Explained

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Decoding IVF Lingo

If you’re exploring in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other fertility treatments, you’ve probably noticed a whole new language filled with acronyms and abbreviations. Understanding these terms is key to communicating with your doctors and navigating your fertility journey.

This article is designed to break down the language of IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART). We’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the most common medical abbreviations you’ll encounter in fertility clinics and online forums. Knowing these terms can empower you to advocate for yourself and make informed decisions.

We’ll cover everything from preconception and fertility testing to genetic testing, treatment options, pregnancy, and general infertility terms. We’ll even go over common hashtags used in online support groups.

Preconception and basic fertility terms

If you’re just starting out on your fertility journey, you may encounter some new terms and abbreviations. Here are a few to know:

Terms related to trying to conceive

  • TTC: Trying to conceive — this is the first step in actively trying to get pregnant. It’s also a term you’ll see online if you’re looking for support from others on a similar journey.
  • OPK: Ovulation predictor kit — a kit you can use to detect the rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) that happens right before ovulation. The test helps you pinpoint the best time to have intercourse or undergo insemination.
  • BBT: Basal body temperature — tracking your body temperature to identify when you’re ovulating. Your BBT rises slightly right after ovulation.

Semen analysis

  • SA: Semen analysis — a test that measures sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). A low sperm count is anything under 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.

Fertility testing abbreviations

When you’re undergoing fertility testing, you’re likely to encounter a lot of medical abbreviations. Here are some of the most common ones.

Hormone testing

  • FSH: Follicle-stimulating hormone, which stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries. High levels of FSH can mean diminished ovarian reserve.
  • LH: Luteinizing hormone, which triggers ovulation. An LH surge is detectable with ovulation predictor kits (OPKs).
  • AMH: Anti-Müllerian hormone, which indicates ovarian reserve. AMH levels help doctors predict how a woman’s ovaries will respond to stimulation with fertility drugs.
  • E2: Estradiol, a form of estrogen produced by the ovaries. Doctors monitor estradiol levels during fertility treatment cycles.
  • TSH: Thyroid-stimulating hormone, which is important for overall health and fertility. Thyroid imbalances can affect ovulation and implantation.

Uterine evaluation

  • HSG: Hysterosalpingogram, an X-ray to assess the uterus and fallopian tubes and check for any blockages or abnormalities that could affect fertility.
  • SIS or SHG: Saline infusion sonohysterogram, an ultrasound of the uterus after saline is injected to give a clearer view of the uterine lining and any potential issues.
  • ERA: Endometrial receptivity analysis, a test to determine the best time to transfer an embryo into the uterus based on the receptivity of the uterine lining.

Genetic and Embryo Testing Abbreviations

Doctors use a few abbreviations when they talk about genetic testing during IVF. Here’s a quick guide:

  • PGT: This stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing. It’s a general term for any genetic testing done on embryos created through IVF, before they are implanted in the uterus.
  • PGT-A: This means Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies. Aneuploidies are conditions in which an embryo has the wrong number of chromosomes. Down syndrome, for instance, is caused by an extra chromosome. PGT-A helps doctors select embryos with the correct number of chromosomes for transfer.
  • PGT-M: This is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic or Single-Gene Disorders. Doctors use this test to look for specific genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis. It’s typically used when one or both parents are carriers of a known genetic disease.
  • PGT-SR: This stands for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Chromosomal Structural Rearrangements. This test is used to identify embryos with unbalanced chromosomal rearrangements. It’s typically used when one or both parents has a chromosomal translocation or inversion.

Fertility treatment abbreviations

The world of fertility treatment is full of acronyms. Here’s a handy guide to some of the most common ones:

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

  • ART: Assisted Reproductive Technology — a broad term for any fertility treatment that involves working with eggs and/or sperm. This includes IVF, IUI, and other procedures.
  • IVF: In Vitro Fertilization — a process where eggs are taken from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a lab. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus.
  • ICSI: Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection — a technique where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. It’s often used when there are issues with sperm quality.
  • IUI: Intrauterine Insemination — a procedure where sperm is placed directly into the uterus. It can be used for mild male factor infertility or unexplained infertility.
  • AH: Assisted Hatching — a procedure where a small hole is made in the outer shell of the embryo to help it hatch and implant. It may be used for older patients or those with recurrent implantation failure.
  • RIVF: Reciprocal In Vitro Fertilization — a type of IVF where one partner provides the eggs and the other partner carries the pregnancy. It’s used by same-sex female couples.

Other Treatment-Related Terms

  • TESA: Testicular/Epididymal Sperm Aspiration — a procedure to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis. It’s used when there is a blockage preventing sperm from being ejaculated.
  • VOR: Vaginal Oocyte Retrieval — the procedure to collect eggs from the ovaries. This is also known as egg retrieval or ER.
  • ESET: Elective Single Embryo Transfer — transferring only one embryo to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies. It’s becoming more common due to the risks associated with carrying twins or triplets.
  • FET: Frozen Embryo Transfer — transferring an embryo that has been previously frozen. It allows for genetic testing or uterine preparation before transfer.
  • GC: Gestational Carrier — a woman who carries a pregnancy for another person or couple. She’s also known as a surrogate.
  • OHSS: Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome — a potential complication of ovarian stimulation. It can cause fluid buildup in the abdomen and other symptoms.

Pregnancy-related IVF Abbreviations

Here are some common abbreviations you might see during or after your IVF cycle, once pregnancy is confirmed:

  • hCG: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, a hormone produced during pregnancy. You’ll see this on your pregnancy test results.
  • DPT: Days Past Transfer, meaning how many days have passed since the embryo transfer. Doctors use this to time pregnancy tests.
  • TWW or 2WW: Two-Week Wait. This is the time between ovulation (or embryo transfer) and when you can take a pregnancy test. It’s famously a stressful period.
  • LMP: Last Menstrual Period. The first day of your last period. Doctors use this to calculate your due date.
  • EDD: Estimated Due Date. This is your calculated due date. A pregnancy is considered full term at 39 weeks.
  • D&C: Dilation & Curettage. This is a surgical procedure to remove tissue from the uterus and is sometimes performed after a miscarriage.

General Fertility-Related Abbreviations

When you’re exploring fertility treatments, you may encounter a lot of unfamiliar abbreviations. Here are some of the most common:

  • PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can lead to irregular periods, cysts on the ovaries, and infertility. PCOS is a common cause of infertility.
  • DOR: Diminished Ovarian Reserve, a condition where a woman’s ovaries have fewer eggs than expected for her age. DOR may affect 10 to 30 percent of women seeking help for infertility.
  • LPD: Luteal Phase Deficiency, a condition that prevents the uterine lining from developing properly after ovulation, making it difficult for an embryo to implant.
  • AF: Aunt Flo, a slang term for menstruation.
  • BFN: Big Fat Negative, a negative pregnancy test result.
  • BFP: Big Fat Positive, a positive pregnancy test result.

Common Fertility Hashtags

If you’re going through IVF, you may find it helpful to connect with others online. Here are some hashtags you may see on social media:

  • #TTC: Stands for “Trying To Conceive.” People use this to connect with others who are also trying to get pregnant.
  • #TTCCommunity: This is a community for those trying to conceive, where they can find support and information.
  • #IVF: This hashtag is used to share experiences and information about in vitro fertilization.
  • #IVFwarrior: A hashtag for those undergoing IVF treatment.
  • #Embaby: A term of endearment for embryos.
  • #PUPO: Means “Pregnant Until Proven Otherwise.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IVF in nursing terms?

In nursing, IVF refers to the same procedure as in general medical contexts: In Vitro Fertilization. Nurses play a crucial role in IVF, assisting with procedures like egg retrieval and embryo transfer, as well as providing patient education and emotional support throughout the process. They’re involved in monitoring patients for any complications and ensuring a smooth experience.

What does IVF stand for in medical terms fluid?

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. The “fluid” aspect isn’t directly part of the abbreviation or definition, but fluids are essential during the procedure. For instance, fluids are used to culture the eggs and sperm, as well as to facilitate the transfer of the embryo into the uterus. The quality and composition of these fluids are critical for IVF success.

What are the abbreviations for IVF?

While “IVF” itself is the primary abbreviation, you might encounter other abbreviations related to the IVF process. Some examples include: ET (Embryo Transfer), ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), IUI (Intrauterine Insemination – often a precursor to IVF), FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), and hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin). Understanding these abbreviations is key to navigating IVF-related medical literature and discussions.

Wrapping Up

IVF has its own language, and understanding the acronyms and abbreviations is essential if you’re considering fertility treatment. Knowing what the terms mean empowers you to communicate clearly with your care team and make informed decisions about your health.

This guide offers a solid foundation in the language of IVF, but it’s not a substitute for personalized medical advice. To get the most benefit from fertility treatment, consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

By learning the language of IVF and actively participating in your care, you can advocate for yourself and improve your odds of a successful outcome.