Conception and Fertility
B
Basal Body Temperature Method
The Basal Body Temperature (BBT) method is a natural family planning technique used to track fertility cycles. It involves measuring and recording a woman's body temperature first thing in the morning, before any physical activity. This temperature, known as the basal body temperature, typically rises slightly (0.5-1°F or 0.3-0.6°C) after ovulation due to increased progesterone levels.
Basal Body Temperature
Basal body temperature (BBT) refers to the lowest body temperature attained during rest, typically measured immediately after waking and before any physical activity. In the context of sexual health and fertility, tracking BBT is a method used to identify ovulation and fertile periods in people with menstrual cycles.
Blastocyst
A blastocyst is an early stage of embryonic development that occurs about 5-6 days after fertilization. It's a hollow ball of cells consisting of an outer layer called the trophoblast, which will eventually form the placenta, and an inner cell mass that will develop into the fetus. The blastocyst stage is crucial for successful implantation in the uterus and the beginning of pregnancy.
C
Cervical Mucus Method
The Cervical Mucus Method is a natural family planning technique that involves tracking changes in cervical mucus to predict fertility. This method relies on observing and interpreting the consistency, color, and amount of cervical mucus throughout the menstrual cycle to identify the most fertile days. Women use this information to either avoid or achieve pregnancy.
Cervical Mucus
Cervical mucus is a fluid secreted by glands in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. This mucus changes in consistency and quantity throughout a person's menstrual cycle, playing a crucial role in reproductive health and fertility. The characteristics of cervical mucus can provide valuable information about a person's fertile window and overall reproductive health.
F
Fallopian Tubes
Fallopian tubes, also known as uterine tubes or oviducts, are a pair of thin tubes in the female reproductive system. These tubes connect the ovaries to the uterus and play a crucial role in the process of conception. Each fallopian tube is about 10-12 cm long and is lined with tiny, hair-like structures called cilia that help move the egg towards the uterus.
Fertility Awareness Methods
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs) are a group of natural family planning techniques used to track a woman's menstrual cycle to determine fertile and infertile periods. These methods rely on observing and recording various physiological signs of fertility, such as basal body temperature, cervical mucus changes, and menstrual cycle patterns. FAMs can be used either to avoid pregnancy or to increase the chances of conception.
Fertilization
Fertilization is the process where a sperm cell successfully fuses with an egg (ovum), combining their genetic material to form a zygote. This crucial step in sexual reproduction typically occurs in the fallopian tube of the female reproductive system after sexual intercourse or through assisted reproductive technologies. Fertilization marks the beginning of pregnancy and the development of a new organism.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a crucial reproductive hormone produced by the pituitary gland in both males and females. In people with ovaries, FSH stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles, which contain eggs. In people with testes, FSH plays a vital role in sperm production. This hormone is essential for sexual development, fertility, and maintaining reproductive function throughout adulthood.
Follicular Phase
The follicular phase is the first part of the menstrual cycle, beginning on the first day of menstruation and ending with ovulation. During this phase, follicles in the ovary mature, and estrogen levels rise, preparing the body for potential pregnancy. This phase typically lasts about 14 days but can vary from person to person.
O
Ovarian Reserve
Ovarian reserve refers to the quantity and quality of a woman's remaining egg supply. It's a measure of a woman's reproductive potential and is closely tied to her fertility. As women age, both the number and quality of their eggs naturally decline, which is reflected in their ovarian reserve.
Ovulation
Ovulation is the release of a mature egg (ovum) from the ovary. It typically occurs once per menstrual cycle, usually about midway through the cycle. During ovulation, the ovary releases the egg, which then travels down the fallopian tube where it may potentially be fertilized by sperm.