It is a pleasure to have an updated version of the highly regarded first edition of Reproductive Endocrinology for the MRCOG and Beyond series. It is testimony to the popularity of the first edition, published in 2003, that it sold rapidly and there was immediate demand for a replacement. This version, as the first, has been compiled and updated by an undoubted leader in the field. Prof Adam Balen is a highly respected researcher and clinician – with a Chair in Reproductive Medicine in Leeds and a considerable research track record. In recent years he has greatly enhanced our understanding with research publications concerning PCOS, ovarian function and fertility.

Reproductive endocrinology is a popular area of both special and subspecialty training and this book provides an excellent basic grounding for both. In addition, matters of development, menstruation and endocrine dysfunction are encountered by all gynaecologists and hence the broad appeal of this compact and accessible book.

I hope you enjoy it.