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This module provides insight into reproductive health, comprising study of a number of cross-cutting themes relating to scientific innovation as well as patient care within this area, and clinical observation opportunities. The module content covers all aspects of male and female reproductive health, building upon knowledge gained in Year 2 of your medical degree. This will start with basic embryology of the reproductive system, differences in males and females, anatomy, physiology and pathology, fertility, infertility, assisted conception techniques, female reproductive conditions, and the menopause. Ethico-legal issues will be explored primarily with reference to UK law but with consideration of global issues where appropriate. You will have the opportunity to visit the reproductive medicine clinic at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈËH to help underpin your theoretical knowledge.

On completion of the module, successful candidates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of:

• male and female reproductive anatomy.
• the principles/key concepts of embryology of the female reproductive tract, hormones, puberty and the normal menstrual cycle.
• fertilisation, pre-implantation development and the principles of assisted conception.
• ethico-legal considerations applicable to assisted conception.
• the diagnosis and causes of female and male factor infertility.
• the principles/key concepts of the disorders of sexual development.
• the key clinical considerations affecting abortion.
• the key ethico-legal arguments relevant to abortion and contraception in the UK and globally.
• the clinical, social/service and ethical issues relating to contraception.
• the pathology of menstruation, the menopause, as well as the clinical treatment of menstrual disorders.
• the key principles of endocrinology including disorders of the hypothalamo-pituitary system.

Introductory Reading:
Herring J (2018) Medical law and ethics, Chapter 1 Ethics and Medical Law (OUP)