The successful achievement of pregnancies following pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) was first reported in April 1990. The technology is often used for patients who are at substantial risk of conceiving a pregnancy affected by a known genetic disorder, however from this technology other more controversial uses have arisen such as HLA typing to save the life of a sibling, gender selection for social reasons, the prevention of late onset diseases, or the prevention of diseases which may be genetically predisposed to developing such as breast cancer. The technology surrounding PGD is constantly developing, giving rise to new and unexpected consequences that create fresh ethical and legal dilemmas. Featuring internationally recognized experts in the field, this book critically explores the regulation of PGD and the broader legal and ethical issues associated with it. It looks at the regulatory situation in a number of jurisdictions including New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom, but it also explores a number of themes of wide significance including a historical consideration of PGD and its part in the creation of the "genetic embryo" as a political tool, the over regulation of PGD and the ethical difficulties in handling additional unexpected medical information yielded by new technologies. This book will be of particular interest to academics and students of law, medicine and ethics.

Today, we are exposed to an increasing number of chemicals in the environment and there is a growing awareness of the effects of these chemicals on the ovaries. Infertility resulting from environmental exposures may not be obvious until the reproductive life span is waning. As such, the potential for xenobiotic-induced infertility needs to be better understood. In recent years, research into chemicals that have the potential to cause early menopause by destroying pre-antral ovarian follicles is gaining greater appreciation. Ovarian Toxicology, Second Edition represents a compilation of chapters prepared by researchers who have substantially contributed to our understanding of the impact of xenobiotics and environmental factors on ovarian function. The second edition substantially updates newly investigated ovotoxicants as well as improved mechanistic insights that have emerged since the first edition. Topics include: Ovarian physiology and the metabolism of xenobiotics The effect of pesticides, heavy metals, phthalates, BPA, and cigarette smoking on the ovaries Ovarian cancer, including endocrine effects and new perspectives on chemoresistance Epidemiology and human health risk assessment for environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals The first book to focus specifically on ovarian toxicology, this resource is ideal for scientists in academia, regulatory agencies, and industry who would benefit from a survey of the impact of xenobiotic chemicals on ovarian function.

In Reproductive Medicine and the Life Sciences in the Contemporary Economy, Alexander Styhre and Rebecka Arman illuminate issues that have given rise to terms such as 'the bioeconomy' and 'the baby business'. The life sciences play an increasing role in providing services and commodities consumed by businesses and the public. Based on an in-depth study of clinics offering assisted fertilization in Sweden, this book is the first to examine the commercialization and commodification of know-how derived from the life sciences, from the point of view of organization theory. In the field of reproductive medicine there has been significant growth of both public and private clinical work. Clinics are places where individual interests and concerns and social and institutional arrangements intersect. With a front office where patients encounter various professional groups and a back office comprising the laboratories wherein human reproductive materials are handled and stored, they are more than just places in which medicine is applied in a clinical setting. Clinicians in this field actively influence policy-making and the regulatory frameworks that monitor and set the boundaries for their work. These are places where social and cultural interests and concerns are translated into policies and practice. The clinics are open social systems, responding to and influencing discussions. This book combines organization theory, sociological theory, gender theory, science and technology studies, and philosophy. It emphasises the critical importance of a sociomaterial perspective on organization, stressing how material and social resources are always of necessity folded into each other in day-to-day organizing.

Bringing together the latest information on the organization, management and quality of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) units, this is the first true field guide for the clinician working in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Divided thematically into four main sections, part one discussed the establishment and organization of the IVF unit, including location, design and construction, practical considerations for batching IVF cycles, and regulations and risk management. Part two, the largest section, covers the many aspects of overall quality management and its implementation - staff and patient management, cryobank and PGD/PGS management, and data management - as well as optimization of treatment outcomes and statistical process control analysis to assess quality variation. Part three addresses the relationship between IVF units and society at large, including the ethics of IVF treatment, as well as public/low-cost and private/corporate IVF units. Advertising and marketing for IVF units is discussed in part four, including the building and managing of websites and the use of traditional print and social media. With approximately five thousand IVF units worldwide and a growing number of training programs, Organization and Management of IVF Units is a key resource for clinic directors, unit managers, embryologists, quality experts, and students of reproductive medicine and clinical embryology.

Technologies of Sexuality, Identity and Sexual Health highlights the complex ways in which sexuality is expressed and enacted through local ideologies, global identities and material cultures, and their influence on people s sexual health and well-being. Its impetus is the renewed interest in technology and the social life of things, including pharmaceuticals, expanded sexual and related surgery, the growing exploitation of markets for sexual and contraceptive products, and the impact of these on sexual and health practices and outcomes.

Organised loosely into three parts, the opening chapters concentrate on female contraception, its availability, and the varied cultural significance attached to the ability to control its use, exploring the politics of reproductive health and birth control, and the ties between technology and power. The middle section turns its attention to men, and the impact of traditional and contemporary concerns about masculinity, and the social and sexual roles of men. The final chapters look at the commonalities across cultural borders and sexual gendered identities how products and procedures travel, not only through the formal channels of globalisation, but also informally, carried by individuals across cultural and social boundaries through sexual, social and commercial interactions.

The volume brings together anthropologists, sociologists and cultural studies scholars, both senior and emerging, from around the globe. Offering an important and topical contribution to the developing global literature on sexuality, sexual identity, culture and health, it is of interest to researchers and advanced students in these areas.

Stillbirth remains a sufficiently frequent outcome of pregnancy to pose great problems for clinicians, who have to treat extremely distressed patients. This concise but comprehensive book from an international team of contributors sets out clear guidelines for clinical procedures and patient management for the obstetrician, as well as the gynecologist and the gynecologic pathologist.

An ideal reference for infertility specialists and reproductive endocrinologists alike, this comprehensive text discusses current natural and mild approaches to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the development of in vitro maturation (IVM) as a clinical treatment. It is divided thematically into four sections. Part I presents the basic science of ovarian endocrinology and the mechanism of oocyte maturation, including follicular development and the importance of mitochondrial changes. The differences between natural cycle IVF and stimulated IVF are presented in part II, including the standard ovarian stimulation protocols and their outcomes and the etiology, prevention and management of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Minimal and mild stimulation for IVF is discussed in part III, including mild stimulation protocols for oncofertility patients and the new minimally invasive INVO procedure. In vitro maturation as a clinical treatment is the subject of part IV, discussing the methodology of immature oocyte retrieval as well as other laboratory aspects and congenital and obstetrical outcomes of babies born from IVM. Combining expertise from thought leaders around the world, Development of In Vitro Maturation for Human Oocytes will be a go-to resource for infertility researchers and practitioners and reproductive endocrinologists working with infertile couples looking for safer and more cost-effective options for treatment.

New technologies, developing at an unbelievable pace, have profoundly changed many areas of reproductive medicine including fertility control, infertility treatment, embryology, prenatal diagnosis and fetal surgery. These fields of modern reproductive medicine are all flourishing at Catholic universities in the Low Countries, Belgium and Holland. However, contraceptive techniques, assisted reproductive technologies, preimplantation genetic diagnosis and embryonic stem cell research are deeply dividing Catholic universities around the world. Are Catholic universities in the Low Countries heading silently towards a schism with Rome? Or is modern reproductive medicine based on personalist ethics and practiced at progressive Catholic universities compatible with the Catholic doctrine?

"Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "provides a comprehensive series of up-to-the-minute reviews addressing the role of oxidative stress in the aetiology of reproductive pathologies in the male. This volume represents by far the most detailed, authoritative review of the field that has been produced to date. The text encompasses the basic science of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by mammalian spermatozoa, the way in which these highly reactive molecules are processed by the germ line and the physiological significance of this redox activity in the generation of a functional gamete. The factors responsible for perturbing the delicate balance between physiological redox signaling on the one hand and oxidative stress on the other are also extensively reviewed and some of the first clues concerning the underlying mechanisms (age, heat, infection, cryostorage, aberrant lipid metabolism), clearly identified. From a clinical perspective there are chapters setting out the methods we should be using to diagnose oxidative stress in the male germ line, a clinical perspective on the aetiology of this condition and detailed considerations of the most suitable means of ameliorating such stress from a therapeutic point of view.

"Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "is intended to provide clinicians and scientists with a snap shot of the current status of this exciting, rapidly moving field. The book will be of value to clinicians interested in strategies for the management of oxidative stress in their infertility patients and scientists wishing to understand the molecular mechanisms underpinning the generation of ROS by these cells and its pathophysiological significance. It was not so long ago that the ability of spermatozoa to generate ROS was a hotly disputed topic. With the publication of this book such doubts can finally be laid to rest. There is now no doubt that these cells actively generate ROS, that oxidative stress is a major contributor to defects in male reproductive health and that the successful clinical management of this condition depends on developing a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this quest, "Studies on Men s Health and Fertility "will be seen as a clear and important milestone. "

This new edition of an acclaimed text reviews the evidence for best practice in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, to present the reader with the right information, with appropriate use of proven interventions and avoidance of ineffectual or harmful ones. The information is presented in the right format by summarizing evidence succinctly and clearly in tables and algorithms. The aim is to inform the clinician, to reduce errors and "to make it easy to do it right." The volume can be purchased separately or together with the companion volume on Obstetric Evidence Based Guidelines (set ISBN 9780367567033). The Series in Maternal-Fetal Medicine is published in conjunction with the Journal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine. From reviews of previous editions: An excellent resource with quick and easy protocols... this book has a permanent spot on my shelf. -Doody's Review Service

In January 1979, Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe delivered a lecture detailing the ten-year clinical and scientific research programme that led to the birth of Louise Brown, the first baby born utilising IVF. This thoroughly-researched book provides both a full annotated transcript of the lecture as well as recorded reminiscences from those who attended, detailing the contemporary understandings of the event. An essay on the lecture's historical context adds fresh insight into the biographies of Edwards and Steptoe and highlights sources from print and broadcast media that have received scant attention in earlier publications. Current and future implications of the advances in IVF since the first procedure are also explored, examining future medical and scientific possibilities as well as ethical issues that may arise. A foreword by Louise Brown herself places this remarkable leap of science in a personal context, one that so many families have since experienced themselves.

In the last 15 years, fertility treatment has become mainstream medical practice. With this evolution has come a change in focus from effectiveness ('success rates') to safety, patient acceptability and ethical questions. It is recognized that effectiveness also depends crucially on safety and good risk management. The purpose of this book is to address this wider change in focus. Reducing Risk in Fertility Treatment examines risk in assisted conception, covering a wide range of topics and areas. 'Risk' refers to situations in which an outcome of value to people is uncertain. Specifically for the purpose of this book, 'Risk' means situations where patients or professionals or society as a whole is at risk of an adverse outcome in relation to fertility treatment. It therefore encompasses clinical complications, risks inherent in laboratory practice, reputational and business risks to clinics and ethical risks to society as a whole. It will be an essential resource for all clinic staff to consult in reducing the risk associated with their work. It will provide practical resources such as 'how to' guides, but also a theoretical discussion of uncertainty where this exists. The book is primarily directed to practitioners in the area of fertility treatment, namely clinicians, embryologists, nurses, counsellors and administrators. However, it is likely also to be relevant to policy-makers, commissioners of health services, researchers in this field and biomedical ethicists.

The enormous increase in our knowledge and understanding of diabetes mellitus in recent years has resulted in new management strategies for greatly enhancing care in diabetic pregnancy. Clinicians responsible for the care of women with diabetes need to keep abreast of these advances. Diabetes and Pregnancy: An International Approach to Diagnosis and Management is a comprehensive, yet practical guide to the present state of knowledge regarding diabetic pregnancy. It summarizes published literature, and offers clear and valuable information on the practicalities of providing special care before, during and after pregnancy. This volume will be indispensable to all members of the health care team involved in the care of pregnant diabetic women and their babies, including obstetricians, neonatologists, diabetes physicians, specialist nurses, midwives as well as general practitioners.

Reproductive biologists, evolutionary biologists, demographers and social scientists all have a common interest in the business of human reproduction. Their perspectives, however, are very different and have traditionally prevented them from having much to do with each other. The conference on which this book is based brought together contributors from each of these disciplines in an attempt to explore the common ground that they share and so generate a better understanding of the factors that influence human fertility.

Documenting the latest statistical data on current problems related to reproductive health issues in Central and Eastern Europe, this book explores the reasons for these problems and recommends action based on the scientific evidence for improving reproductive health.

The main issues covered in the book are: declining standards of reproductive health care; rising trends in the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases; low rates of use of modern contraceptives; high rates of induced abortion; high prevalence of infertility; and the needs of adolescents with regard to reproductive health.

Enhancing Fertility through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve 'Unexplained' Infertility provides cutting-edge information and solutions to help support the worldwide rise of fertility challenges. It addresses common, yet not commonly known, root-causes of oxidative stress that are at the heart of reproductive issues (and all chronic health issues). These solutions can help enhance the outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) or support women to avoid them altogether. Enhancing Fertility through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve 'Unexplained' Infertility will show you how to improve cell health (including egg and sperm), lower inflammation, balance nervous system functioning, and optimize genetic expression, allowing the body to return to its naturally fertile state. It details information on numerous root causes of health-derailing inflammation and oxidative stress, while the appendices discuss the genetic and biochemical pathways related to these topics. Each chapter also provides easy "Action Steps" that can be implemented immediately. Chapter topics include iron dysregulation; oxalates; mold/mycotoxins; phase 2 liver detoxification pathways; fat utilization; introductory information on genetics, epigenetics, and nutrigenomics; everything one needs to know about histamine intolerance; and how these factors adversely affect metabolic and reproductive functions. Enhancing Fertility through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve 'Unexplained' Infertility is the handbook for people wanting to achieve and sustain a healthy pregnancy. It highlights lesser-known causes of fertility challenges the reader can learn how to investigate. This book also serves as a reference guide for practitioners, providing them with additional tools to add to their repertoires when other protocols have not been effective. It may also provide clarity as to why other protocols did not work, and will enable the practitioner to custom-tailor protocols for each patient.

The Cassell Hospital Monograph Series, No. 1. The first in a series of monographs, intended to present accessible teaching material concerned with the practice of residential care.

Doctors increasingly recognize that sexual unhappiness has serious effects on the health of individuals and families. Sexual function depends on our bodies and our minds and sexual problems may present with physical symptoms. Using case histories the book describes the practice of psychosexual medicine and explores the skills used by doctors therapists and counsellors. A systematic and comprehensive examination of this field for the first time this book places psychosexual medicine in context with other therapies. For those working at all levels throughout primary care including doctors and nurses in general practice and in family planning clinics therapists and counsellors and for specialists in the fields of genito-urinary medicine gynaecology andrology and urology Blocks and Freedoms in Sexual Life is an essential reference and a tool for increasing the scope and effectiveness of their work.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancer. Human Papillomavirus Infections in Dermatovenereology pulls together the diverse disciplines of clinical, molecular biological, socio epidemiological, and immunological research to bridge the gap between the clinical aspects and basic biology of HPV. This volume provides a much-needed overview of the scientific and clinical data of HPV and HPV-associated diseases, exploring opinions on current therapies and diagnostic methods. It critically reviews the most frequently used molecular biologic methods, evaluating their potential in HPV detection. Specialists in dermatology, genitourinary medicine, gynecology, urology, as well as pathologists, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and virologists will appreciate this timely examination of the ubiquitous pathogen, HPV.

With technological advances in reproduction no longer confined to the laboratory or involving only the isolated individual, women and men are increasingly resorting to a variety of technologies unheard of a few decades ago to assist them in becoming parents. The public at large, and feminists as a group, are confused and divided over how to view these technologies and over what positions to take on the moral and legal dilemmas. The Other Machine provides a rigorous analysis of contemporary feminist debates.

Providing a comprehensive review of the interactions between exercise and human reproduction, this unique text focuses on both the positive and negative consequences of sport and physical activity on male and female fertility and infertility and the biological mechanisms and processes behind them. Beginning with a review of the structure and function of the male and female reproductive systems as well as fertilization and gestation, the discussion then turns to the physiology and endocrinology of sport and exercise, which is further elaborated in subsequent chapters on the impact of physical activity, hormonal changes, pathologies, and consequences of drug use for active men and women. Additional chapters address related topics, such as the impact of sport on young athletes and developing reproductive potential, physical activity and pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives in athletes, oxidative stress, and the impact of nutritional deficiencies on athletes' fertility, with a final chapter providing recommendations and therapeutic guidelines for exercise-related reproductive disorders. Covering everything from the fundamental principles of sports physiology and human reproductive potential to the interaction between physical exercise and the endocrinology of the reproductive system, Exercise and Human Reproduction is an authoritative resource for helping clinicians understand how the reproductive system adapts to activity and exercise and offers strategies to avoid potential harm to human reproduction.

'Amy's book is everything I should have learned at school. It is a reminder to empower ourselves, in a world that still sadly lacks so much knowledge around women's health, by getting to know our own bodies more intimately - with the help of technology built by women' Emma Gannon 'Moody is a fascinating and friendly guide for you to understand you better.' Melissa Hemsley 'Knowledge is power and this book equips you with the power to unlock potential and happiness.' Poppy Jamie, author of Happy Not Perfect There is a secret inside you which, once you understand it fully, has the capacity to unlock untold potential. Once you learn the science of your hormones, you will be able to harness it forever. Hormones were something Amy Thomson, founder and CEO of leading women's health app and tech service Moody, never paid attention to, until one day her periods stopped and what had been an inconvenience each month became a barometer for her body's health and mental happiness. When she discovered that her hormonal burnout was driven by stress, she quit her job and focused on trying to understand how her body worked, to establish why and how she had pushed herself too far. In this guide, Amy shares the research and science behind how our hormones work for twenty-first-century survival, how understanding them can help you build better and healthier routines, and why the systems and cycles inside us are an invisible but powerful force. With insights from nutritionists, gynaecologists, endocrinologists, personal trainers and others, Moody provides a holistic and practical blueprint for understanding your hormones and optimising your life around them. Praise for Moody 'As a woman, medical doctor and scientist I found Moody hugely illuminating' Dr Tara Swart