Providing essential reading for medical, veterinary and biological science students, and students of physiology and trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology, the seventh edition of Essential Reproduction offers an up-to-date account of the fundamentals of reproduction within the context of cutting-edge knowledge and examples of its application. It provides a multidisciplinary approach integrating physiology, genetics, behaviour, anatomy and clinical science, to give thorough coverage of the study of mammalian reproduction.

Essential Reproduction is now accompanied by the Wiley E-Text: Powered by VitalSource, and includes:

The latest on conceptual, informational and applied aspects of reproduction
A new structure offering a more logical approach to study and revision
Expanded further reading suggestions to support research
A companion website at www.essentialreproduction.com features all of the images from the book to download perfect for instructor and student support.

Table of Contents
Preface vii

How to use this book viii

Acknowledgements ix

Features of your textbook x

PART 1: Introduction 1

1 What is reproduction? 3

PART 2: Making men and women 33

2 Sex 35

3 Sexual maturation 50

4 Gender 69

5 Sexual selection 85

PART 3: Preparing for pregnancy 103

6 Making sperm 105

7 Men 122

8 Making eggs 133

9 Women 151

PART 4: Making an embryo 173

10 Sperm and eggs 175

11 Fertilization 189

12 Initiating pregnancy 206

PART 5: Maintaining a pregnancy 225

13 Supporting the embryo and fetus 227

14 Growing the fetus 245

15 Fetal challenges 258

PART 6: A new individual 271

16 Preparing for birth 273

17 Giving birth 283

18 Lactation 297

19 Postnatal care 309

PART 7: Manipulating reproduction 323

20 Regulating fertility 325

21 Restoring fertility 340

22 Society and reproduction 356

Index 365