Hormones and Pregnancy: Basic Science and Clinical Implications

By: Mariarosaria Di Tommaso and Federico Mecacci and Felice Petraglia

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Synopsis: The endocrine and neuroendocrine system in pregnancy involves highly complex maternal, fetal and placental mechanisms, which are critical for the maintenance of pregnancy, the timing of parturition, for fetal growth and protection from adverse fetal programming. This timely book summarizes the different endocrine aspects related to pregnant women, describing how hormones regulate physiological homeostasis and influence the pathogenesis of disease. The first section of the book covers the role of specific hormones in detail, including oxytocin, hCG and estrogen. The second section discusses gestational disorders such as diabetes, hypertensive disorders and preeclampsia and how the involvement of hormones has clinical implications for management. Best practice for management of endocrine disorders, which can negatively impact pregnancy, such as thyroid disease and obesity, is also reviewed. This book is essential for clinicians and scientists looking to gain knowledge of the role of hormones in pregnancy and how they can best support patients.