Must-Know Fertility Words for Every Stage of Your Journey, Part 1: Evaluation

Stepping into the world of fertility can feel like learning a new language overnight. Suddenly, conversations include words like Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and spermatogenesis, and it’s easy to feel like you’ve actually walked into a medical textbook. The good news? You don’t have to be a doctor to understand what’s happening with your body or to have informed discussions with your fertility team. This guide is here to break things down in a way that makes sense—so you can focus less on decoding jargon and more on moving forward with confidence. 

This glossary covers terms you’ll likely hear during fertility evaluations, the first step in understanding reproductive health. It’s part of a four-part series designed to walk you through each phase of the journey. Keep this list handy as you go through testing and consultations—it’ll come in handy when those complex terms start popping up. 

Glossary of Fertility Terms: Evaluation  

During the evaluation stage, doctors assess reproductive health through tests, imaging, and lab work. Learn more about fertility evaluations here. 

Below are terms you may encounter when discussing fertility assessments and diagnostic procedures.  

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) 

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) (an-tee mull-ER-ee-an HOR-mone) is a hormone produced by ovarian follicles, often used to estimate ovarian reserve—the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. While it doesn’t predict fertility with certainty, AMH levels can help guide conversations about potential treatment options. Your doctor may order an AMH test as part of your initial evaluation, especially if you're exploring assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. 

Antral Follicles 

Antral follicles (AN-trul FAH-lih-kuhls) are small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries that contain immature eggs. Their number is assessed through a vaginal ultrasound to help determine ovarian reserve. A higher count generally indicates a greater egg supply, which can be useful when planning fertility treatments. 

Azoospermia 

Azoospermia (ay-zoh-oh-SPUR-mee-uh) is a condition where no sperm are found in a man’s semen. It can result from a blockage in the vas deferens, hormonal imbalances, or problems with spermatogenesis (sperm production). If you or your partner receives this diagnosis, further testing can help determine possible treatment options, such as sperm retrieval procedures or donor sperm. 

Basal Body Temperature (BBT) 

Basal Body Temperature (BBT) (BAY-suhl or BAZ-uhl BAH-dee TEM-per-uh-chur) refers to your body’s lowest resting temperature, which slightly rises after ovulation due to increased progesterone. Tracking BBT over time can help identify ovulation patterns, though it’s not as precise as modern fertility testing. If you or your partner are just beginning to track the monthly cycle, this is one method to gain insight into the body's natural rhythms. 

Cervical Mucus 

Cervical mucus (SUR-vih-kul MYOO-kus) changes throughout the menstrual cycle and plays a role in fertility by helping or hindering sperm movement. During ovulation, it becomes clear, stretchy, and egg-white-like, creating an ideal environment for sperm to travel toward an egg. Many people track their cervical mucus changes as part of fertility awareness methods. 

Gonadotropin 

Gonadotropins (go-nad-oh-TROH-pins) are hormones that regulate reproductive function, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In fertility treatments, gonadotropins are often used in medications to stimulate egg production. If you or your partner are undergoing ovarian stimulation for IUI or IVF, these hormones will likely be part of the treatment protocol. 

Hydrosalpinx 

A hydrosalpinx (HY-droh-SAL-pinks) is a condition where one or both fallopian tubes become blocked and filled with fluid. This can make natural conception difficult, as the blockage prevents an egg from reaching the uterus. If identified through imaging tests, your doctor may discuss surgical options or alternative fertility treatments. 

Hypospadias 

Hypospadias (hy-poh-SPAY-dee-us) is a congenital condition where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip. While mild cases may not affect fertility, more severe cases could lead to ejaculation or sperm transport issues. If you're working with a fertility specialist, they may assess whether hypospadias is contributing to conception challenges. 

Seminiferous Tubules 

Seminiferous tubules (sem-uh-NIF-er-us TOO-byools) are located within the testes and are where spermatogenesis (sperm production) occurs. Issues with these tubules can affect sperm quality and quantity. If sperm count is low, further testing can help identify underlying causes and treatment options.  

Spermatogenesis 

Spermatogenesis (spur-mat-oh-JEN-uh-sis) is the process by which sperm are produced in the testes. It takes around 74 days for new sperm to mature, and various factors—such as hormones, lifestyle, and genetics—can influence sperm quality. If you or your partner are undergoing fertility testing, a semen analysis will assess how well this process is working.  

Vaginal Ultrasound 

A vaginal ultrasound (VAJ-in-uhl UHL-truh-sound) is a common imaging test used to examine the ovaries, uterus, and antral follicle count. Unlike external ultrasounds, this involves inserting a small probe into the vagina for a clearer view of reproductive structures. You or your partner might have a vaginal ultrasound during fertility evaluations or treatment cycles to monitor ovulation and follicle development.  

Vas Deferens 

The vas deferens (vass DEF-uh-renz) is a tube that transports sperm from the testes to the urethra during ejaculation. If this tube is blocked or absent (as in cases of congenital conditions or azoospermia), it can lead to male fertility issues. Surgical procedures or alternative fertility treatments may be recommended based on the specific diagnosis.  

Bring Your Fertility Questions to The Fertility Wellness Institute of Ohio 

No one expects you to become a fertility expert overnight, but having a grasp on these terms can make a big difference in your journey. Understanding what’s happening in your body, what tests mean, and what your doctor is explaining takes some of the stress out of the process. And when questions come up—because they will—The Fertility Wellness Institute of Ohio is here to help. 

This is just the first part of our four-part series on fertility terminology. Stay tuned for: 

• Preparing for Treatment – covering medications, cycle monitoring, and pre-treatment steps. 
• Procedures and Services – breaking down IVF, IUI, and other fertility treatments. 
• Pregnancy and Post-Treatment Monitoring – discussing early pregnancy care and follow-up. 

If you’re looking for answers or need support, schedule a consultation or visit our FAQ page to explore more resources.