Dr. Mark Denker Explains Common Infertility Terms

A Lesson in Fertility Treatment Vocabulary

Having a basic knowledge of common terms will help you and your partner develop a better idea about common causes of infertility and potential fertility treatment options.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

ART refers to procedures such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF) that involve fertilizing the egg with a sperm in the laboratory. Therapies like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and ovulation induction with fertility medication do not fall under ART services.

Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid)

Used to stimulate ovulation, Clomid comes in tablet form and often serves as the first line of treatment for women with Luteal phase defect (poor quality ovulation) or anovulation (lack of ovulation).

Endometriosis

One of the leading causes of female infertility and pelvic pain, endometriosis is a condition where endometrial cells grow outside of the uterus in other areas, like the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder or intestines. Dr. Denker is fellowship trained in laparoscopic laser surgery, which has been shown to be the most effective treatment for endometriosis.

Fertility Specialist (RE or REI)

Also referred to as a reproductive endocrinologist (RE), or Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist (REI). REIs are ob/gyns with 2 – 3 years of advanced fellowship training in infertility diagnosis, treatment, and laparoscopic fertility surgery.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

The process by which sperm are placed directly into the uterus through the cervix using a catheter to help facilitate conception. IUI is often used in conjunction with other treatments such as clomiphene citrate and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

With IVF, the female patient’s cycle is regulated with fertility medications to produce eggs, which are then retrieved and fertilized in the IVF laboratory. Subsequent embryos are transferred back to the uterus via catheter.

The “alphabet soup” of fertility treatment may seem confusing at first. Dr. Denker and his staff can help you navigate this often-confusing world. The team at Palm Beach Fertility Center can offer support and encouragement as you pursue your goal of parenthood.

For more information about infertility, please visit www.palmbeachfertility.com. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Denker, contact our office.