Glossary
Ectopic Pregnancy
A pregnancy that takes place outside of its normal location, the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies most often occur in a fallopian tube.
Egg retrieval
A procedure used to obtain eggs from ovarian follicles for use in in vitro fertilisation. The procedure may be performed during laparoscopy or through the vagina by using a needle and ultrasound to locate the follicle in the ovary.
Ejaculatory Duct
Paired ducts in males that are located behind the bladder and within the prostate. The end of the vas deferens continues into the ejaculatory duct which transports sperm into the urethra.
Embryo
Term used to describe the early stages of fetal growth, from conception to the eighth week of pregnancy.
Endocrinology
The study of the glands of the body: thymus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, testicles and ovaries.
Endometrium
The lining of the uterus that swells after ovulation to receive an egg and is sloughed off during menstruation if implantation doesn't take place. "Endometritis" refers to inflammation of the endometrium. "Endometriosis" refers to growth of the endometrium outside the uterus, which can result in damage to the reproductive system and, possibly, infertility.
Epididymis
A thin, coiled, tube-like structure through which sperm travel from the testicles to the vas deferens. "Epididymitis" refers to inflammation of the epididymis.
