IVF (in vitro fertilisation): A fertility treatment in which eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the body in a laboratory, and the resulting embryo is implanted into the uterus.
FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): Used in IVF to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs; administered by injection before egg collection.
Clomifene therapy: A fertility drug that stimulates the pituitary to release more FSH and LH, causing egg maturation and release in women who do not ovulate naturally.
Embryo screening: Testing embryos created during IVF for specific genetic disorders before implantation; allows selection of healthy embryos.
In vitro: Latin for "in glass"; refers to processes carried out outside a living organism, in a laboratory vessel.
Implantation: The process by which an embryo embeds itself into the uterus lining; the final stage of IVF treatment.
This definitions covers Key Definitions within Fertility Treatment for GCSE Biology. Topic 10: Fertility Treatment It is section 5 of 11 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Practice questions for Fertility Treatment
Which two hormones are given to a woman at the start of IVF treatment to stimulate the production of multiple eggs?
Explain why FSH and LH are given to a woman before eggs are collected during IVF.
Quick recall flashcards
What is clomifene and how does it work?
Clomifene is a drug that stimulates FSH and LH release from the pituitary gland. This promotes egg development and triggers ovulation, helping women who do not ovulate regularly.
What does IVF stand for and what is it?
IVF = In Vitro Fertilisation. It is a fertility treatment where eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the body in a laboratory, then the embryo is transferred to the uterus.