Allen J. Wilcox

Fertility and Pregnancy: An Epidemiologic Perspective offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of human reproduction-its biological foundations, historical context, and the factors that can disrupt its processes. In this thoroughly revised edition, Allen Wilcox masterfully integrates insights from history, biology, obstetrics, paediatrics, demography, infectious diseases, molecular genetics, and evolutionary biology to present a cohesive, and accessible overview of reproductive epidemiology. With clarity and wit, Wilcox enriches the narrative with compelling anecdotes and insightful illustrations, making complex concepts both understandable and memorable. This edition reflects the dynamic nature of the field, incorporating the latest research findings and theoretical advances. These are conveyed in over thirty new illustrations and extensively updated chapters, including the emerging role of cardiovascular disease in pregnancy complications and the often-misunderstood condition of fetal growth restriction. The book covers a wide range of topics-from the biology of conception and fetal development to the influence of genetics and infectious diseases. It delves into key epidemiologic themes such as recurrence risk within families, the impact of selective fertility, and the methodological challenges of establishing causality. The volume concludes with a thoughtful discussion of unresolved questions and future research opportunities, offering valuable insights for scholars, clinicians, and students alike.

Fertility and Pregnancy: An Epidemiologic Perspective, is a lively overview of human reproduction: how it works, and what causes it to go wrong. Weaving together history, biology, obstetrics, pediatrics, demography, infectious diseases, molecular genetics, and evolutionary biology, Allen Wilcox brings a fresh coherence to the epidemiologic study of reproduction and pregnancy. Along the way, he provides entertaining anecdotes, superb graphs, odd tidbits and occasional humor that bring the topic to life. The book is divided into two sections. The first lays the foundations - the basic principles of reproductive physiology, demography, infectious diseases, and genetics as they apply to human reproduction. The second part deals with the endpoints of reproductive epidemiology - a spectrum ranging from infertility and fetal loss to birth defects and the delayed effects of fetal exposures. The book closes with a discussion of unsolved problems, suggesting possible research projects for a new generation of epidemiologists. An extensive glossary makes this a valuable reference as well as an enjoyable read.