This is a new edition of a highly popular text which presents the fascinating field of reproductive anatomy and physiology in a style which is perfect for student midwives.

Presenting often complex information in an easy-to-understand manner, this useful volume builds up from the founding principles of human structure and function through to conception, embryological development and foetal growth, parturition and the transition to neonatal life. Fully updated throughout with the latest advances in the field, additional topics include sexual differentiation and behaviour, human genetics and genetic disorders, immunology, and maternal and infant nutrition.

Containing over 200 line artworks to support the text, each chapter comes with Learning Outcome boxes, Case Studies, Key Points and Application to Practice boxes, all of which reinforce learning and help 'bring the subject to life'.

A well-established introduction to the science underpinning modern midwifery practice, Anatomy and Physiology for Midwives 4^th edition will be ideal for all students of midwifery, including anyone returning to practice.

• Highly popular midwifery resource that explains and contextualises the principles of reproductive A&P
• Learning Objectives at the start of each chapter help readers structure their study time
• Case Studies 'bring the subject to life' and provide an opportunity to reflect on the implications for clinical practice
• Acknowledges the importance of underlying research and integrates theory and practice
• End of chapter Key Points and Application to Practice boxes further reinforce learning
• Helps midwives deal with questions from increasingly informed 'parents to be'
• More than 200 illustrations help clarify sometimes complex anatomical, physiological and clinical information

• New authorship brings additional expertise into the areas of cell physiology and research, particularly its clinical application to fertility and parturition
• An upgraded artwork program enhances the look and feel of the book
• Contains updates in the fast-moving field of reproductive physiology such as recent advances in fertility treatment, postnatal care of premature infants, and the impact of the gestational environment and early nutrition on later health
• Updated case studies reflect areas of advancing midwifery practice

Kevin Pedley is an Associate Professor in Physiology at Massey University in Palmerston North, New Zealand, having moved from King's College London in 2001. Kevin has spent his time at Massey University teaching first, second and third year undergraduate physiology as well as postgraduate level physiology as well as physiological aspects of Human Nutrition and has served as subject leader for the Physiology B.Sc. Kevin acquired a keen interest in the mechanisms of fertilisation, pregnancy and parturition from his research at King's College and has taught extensively in these areas since his arrival at Massey. He is also active in research and in supervision of PhD students who are mainly focused on the study of cell function in the gastrointestinal tract. These studies have included the mechanisms of insulin secretion, water and electrolyte transport in colonic epithelium, gastric acid secretion and, most recently, the mechanisms of iron transport in duodenal enterocytes. His research has employed a variety of experimental approaches including the use of intra-vital fluorescence and confocal imaging of living cells and, most recently, the use of intestinal organoids as an in vitro model of intestinal function and pathology.Melvyn Dunstall BSc Msc PGCEA RM RGNLecturer/Practitioner in Midwifery, Frimley Park Hospital; Supervisor of Midwives

- Introduction to Physiology
- The Reproductive and Urinary Systems
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Cycles
- Sexual Differentiation and Behaviour
- Fertilization
- Overview of Human Genetics and Genetic Disorders
- The Placenta
- Embryo Development and Fetal Growth
- Overview of Immunology
- Physiological Adaptation to Pregnancy
- Maternal Nutrition and Health
- Physiology of Parturition
- The Puerperium
- The Transition to Neonatal Life
- Lactation and Infant Nutrition Glossary