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LAP - See Laparoscopy

Laparoscope - A small telescope that can be inserted into a hole in the abdominal wall for viewing the internal organs; the instrument used to perform a laparoscopy. Used to diagnose and treat a number of fertility problems including endometriosis, abdominal adhesions, and polycystic ovaries. Also used in egg retrieval for in vitro fertilization. Examination of the pelvic region by using a laparoscope is called a laparoscopy.

Laparoscopy - Examination of the pelvic organs through use a small telescope called a laparascope.

Laparotomy - Major abdominal surgery where reproductive organ abnormalities can be corrected and fertility restored, such as tubal repairs and the removal of adhesions.

Leydig Cell - The testicular cell that produces the male hormone testosterone. The Leydig cell is stimulated by LH from the pituitary gland.

LH - See Luteinizing Hormone

Low Responder - A woman who does not produce many follicle with injectable fertility medications.

Lupron - An injectable medication used to down-regulate the pituitary gland and prevent the release of substances such as Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). Without LH or FSH, the ovary will not produce follicles that will in turn decrease the production of Estrogen and Progesterone.

Luteal Phase - Post-ovulatory phase of a woman's cycle. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, which cause the uterine lining to thicken to support the implantation and growth of the embryo.

Luteinizing Hormone - A pituitary hormone that stimulates the gonads. In the man LH is necessary for spermatogenesis (Sertoli cell function) and for the production of testosterone (Leydig cell function). In the woman LH is necessary for the production of estrogen. When estrogen reaches a critical peak, the pituitary releases a surge of LH (the LH spike), which releases the egg from the follicle.

Luteinizing Hormone Surge (LH Surge) - The spiking release of luteinizing hormone (LH) that causes release of a mature egg from the follicle. Ovulation test kits detect the sudden increase of LH, signaling that ovulation is about to occur (usually within 24-36 hours).

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