This authoritative and contemporary reference provides the most up-to-date clinical and theoretical information available on ovarian physiology. More than 75 of the world's leading experts in pertinent clinical and research areas examine all phases of the ovarian life cycle, synthesizing molecular and cellular detail with classical physiology and pathophysiology in a highly organized manner. Coverage begins with a detailed description of the follicular apparatus and its regulation, and then moves on to oocyte maturation, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. Special emphasis is placed on cyclic ovarian cell death, an aspect of ovarian physiology now coming to the fore. Close attention is also given to intraovarian regulation by growth factors, cytokines, hormones, and regulatory peptides. A section on pathophysiology includes a timely discussion on ovulation induction and gonadotropin therapy.