This issue of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics in North America will focus on the advances in the evaluation and management of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) that have emerged within the last few years. Although spontaneous pregnancy loss occurs in approximately 15% to 20% of clinically recognized pregnancies in reproductive-aged women, RPL occurs in 2% to 5% of the same population. Recent reports on large populations of women with RPL have helped to characterize the incidence and diversity of this heterogeneous disorder, and a definite cause of pregnancy loss can be established on over 50% of all couples after a thorough evaluation. New diagnostic strategies, which include 23-chromosome microarray genetic testing of the products of conception in failed pregnancies, offer the promise of understanding the cause of most pregnancy losses. These recent advances, combined with the contributions from the authors in this issue of Clinics and many others interested in this field, lead to the publication of the long-awaited publication on evaluation and treatment of RPL from the Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. A complete evaluation will include investigations into genetic, anatomic, immunologic, endocrinologic, and iatrogenic factors.

The first few months of any pregnancy are of supreme importance to the success of that pregnancy. This statement is so obvious as to be almost a platitude, yet it must be said that no aspect of pregnancy has been more neglected in the human than the first three months. Little is known of the morphological changes that occur at that time and our knowledge of the mechanisms that control this vital stage of pregnancy is almost non-existent. The explanation for this neglect of what is an obvious area for study is the difficulty of obtaining normal material. It is rare to have material to study from a healthy first trimester pregnancy and the study by Hertig and Rock!l) of early conception found by chance in hysterectomy speci mens must be unique. The information that we do have about early pregnancy is mostly gained from animal studies or single miscarriages in humans. Chromosomal defects are common but are not an explanation for the majority of recurrent miscarriages. Obstetricians have hypothesised many causes for this condition and have deve loped numerous metQods for treating it, but the studies have been poorly con trolled so that our understanding of the cause(s) has not advanced. Treatment of women with a history of recurrent miscarriage by paternal leuco cyte infusion (immunotherapy) may be yet another form of treatment that is hailed as a new advance only to be rejected when subject to rigorous testing.

This volume includes the latest diagnostic criteria for PCOS and comprises the most up-to-date information about the genetic features and pathogenesis of PCOS. It critically reviews the methodological approaches and the evidence for various PCOS susceptibility genes. The book also discusses additional familial phenotypes of PCOS and their potential genetic basis. All four editors of this title are extremely prominent in the field of PCOS.

Presenting the basis for gynecological studies in South Africa, this comprehensive examination, compiled by 32 leaders in the field, describes the history and basics of gynecology—including genetics, embryology, anatomy, physiology, and cytology bioethics. Incorporating information on the latest diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, HIV/AIDS, abuse and violence against women, and access to gynecological data via electronic media, this third edition includes eight new chapters, a DVD that shows live techniques and procedures, and a quick-reference guide summarizing the salient points of each chapter. An invaluable resource for undergraduates, postgraduate students, and practicing physicians, the topics covered in this authoritative handbook apply not only to sub-Saharan Africa but to any developing community.

Written with the busy practice in mind, this book delivers clinically focused, evidence-based gynecology guidance in a quick-reference format. It explores etiology, screening, tests, diagnosis, and treatment for a full range of gynecologic health issues. The coverage includes the full range of gynecologic malignancies, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, infectious diseases, urogynecologic problems, gynecologic concerns in children and adolescents, and surgical interventions including minimally invasive surgical procedures. Information is easy to find and absorb owing to the extensive use of full-color diagrams, algorithms, and illustrations. The new edition has been expanded to include aspects of gynecology important in international and resource-poor settings.

This book is a thorough and easy-to-use guide to gynecology for residents preparing for their CREOG and board examinations. Books available for gynecology residents are generally either clinically directed or academically based. The books in the first group are usually brief, suitable as handbooks for residents to use during daily practice. These books, however, do not provide adequate background information to prepare for CREOG or ABOG board examinations. The more academically-focused books provide detailed background, but do not offer simple and quick assistance during daily practice or studying. This book aims to provide the most beneficial parts of both products. Throughout, the material is simplified and well-organized to provide an excellent resource for clinical practice, with ample use of bullets and key points. The content is also comprehensive, providing the appropriate background knowledge and a systematic approach that makes it an excellent source for the board examination. Topics are divided into four sections: general gynecology, urogynecology, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and gynecology oncology. Chapters then cover all major topics in each area, including uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome, and genital infections. Each chapter additionally includes multiple choice questions for residents to test their knowledge of the material. This is an ideal guide for residents in OBGYN and practicing gynecologists looking for a refresher and quick reference.

Abortion is a legal medical procedure that has been provided to millions of American women. Since the Institute of Medicine first reviewed the health implications of national legalized abortion in 1975, there has been a plethora of related scientific research, including well-designed randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and epidemiological studies examining abortion care. This research has focused on examining the relative safety of abortion methods and the appropriateness of methods for different clinical circumstances. With this growing body of research, earlier abortion methods have been refined, discontinued, and new approaches have been developed. The Safety and Quality of Abortion Care in the United States offers a comprehensive review of the current state of the science related to the provision of safe, high-quality abortion services in the United States. This report considers 8 research questions and presents conclusions, including gaps in research.