Preconception

Puberty

Period in which humans become biologically capable of reproduction

Ova

Eggs that females produce and store in the ovaries

Menstrual Cycles

Prepares an ovum for fertilization by sperm and also prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

Hormone thst stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Hormone that stimulates the growth of eggs

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Hormone thst stimulates the release of progesterone

Infertility

Failing to conceive (become pregnant) within 12 months of attempting to do so

Subfeerility

Reduced levels of fertility characterized by delays in conception

Periconceptional Period

Vital period for growth and development (1 month before conception - 3 months after conception)

Folate RDA

400 mcg per day

Androgens

Steroid hormones (or “male hormones);; testosterone, DHEA,, androstenedione

Teratogenic

Anything capable of causing birth defects in newborns

Gestational Diabetes (GDM)

Diabetes that develops during pregnancy

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

The most common endocrine disorder in females; characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulation dysfunction, and/or polycystic ovaries

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)

Protein produced by the ovaries that is a key indicator of ovarian reserves