Term that covers several high-tech treatments to mix sperm and egg, including the most common, in vitro fertilization. The term given the early life stage of the first eight weeks following fertilization, after which the developing child is considered a fetus. It is the first interaction that can lead to a child, though pregnancy does not necessarily result. Any of a number of medications designed to increase a couple's chances of pregnancy, primarily by improving a woman's ability to ovulate.
Women usually begin with pills and proceed, if unsuccessful, to more expensive needle injections.
None of the drugs guarantees pregnancy. A small sac in the ovary that contains an egg, which is released for possible fertilization during a woman's monthly ovulation. A failure to conceive during a year of unprotected intercourse. For couples who are older or have had problems with their reproductive organs, doctors sometimes consider them infertile after six months. All rights reserved.