In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex process involving the extraction of eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory setting. There are several synonyms for IVF including assisted reproductive technology (ART), embryo transfer (ET), and fertility treatment. In addition to these terms, other related phrases can include in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and egg donation. Each of these terms refers to different aspects of the process of assisted reproduction and may be used in different contexts depending on the specific treatment being used. Regardless of the terminology, IVF remains an effective means of helping couples conceive when traditional methods have failed.