Glossary

Browse through glands, hormones and endocrine conditions.
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F

faeces

the solid waste matter produced by the body as a result of digestion which is discharged through the anus.

fallopian tubes

the passageway in the female reproductive system through which an egg travels from the ovary (where it is released at ovulation) to the uterus (womb).

fertilisation

the biological process by which a sperm penetrates a female egg leading to conception of an embryo.

fertility

referring to the capability of a man or woman to reproduce.

foetus

a baby developing in the mother’s womb is called a fetus from 9 weeks after fertilisation. A foetus is attached to the mother by the umbilical cord, through which it receives nutrients and oxygen.

fibroids

non-cancerous growths in the uterus (womb) that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding.

fine needle aspiration

the method used to obtain a tissue sample using a fine needle.

fistulas

these are hollow tubes that can grow between organs such as the bowels and bladder and the surface of the skin.

Follicle stimulating hormone

Follicle stimulating hormone is produced by the pituitary gland. It regulates the functions of both the ovaries and testes. Lack or low levels of it can cause subfertility in both men and women.

Familial medullary thyroid cancer

Familial medullary thyroid cancer is a rare inherited form of thyroid cancer.

Female infertility

Infertility is when a couple are unable to conceive a child after 12 months of trying (regular intercourse without the use of contraception). After investigation, this may be attributed to reasons identified in the male or female partner. In this article, reasons for infertility that affect the female partner will be discussed.


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