The contributing authors have very much focussed on providing information in plain language, encouraging the novice to read more, as well as facilitating the experienced practitioner in updating their expertise. The use of line drawings reinforces the crisp text. The order of the contributions is logical, introducing the reader to this poorly-understood area of the infertility equation.

Day-to-day challenges for patients as well as practitioners are addressed by providing tricks and tips to indicate clearly the recommended patient pathway. These can be adapted to a wide range of patient expectations, cultural influences and individual circumstances. The inclusion of a sound protocol for ‘home production’ is notable and will lead not only to stress avoidance for patients and the andrology team, but also to a lesser demand for emergency strategies such as oocyte freezing or vitrification and surgical sperm retrieval.

Up-to-date reference values are highlighted in an early chapter as are the benefits of using the most advanced consumables available. Authoritative reviews of cutting-edge matters such as sperm DNA fragmentation tests and their role are welcome, as well as clarification of the relevance of immunological phenomena in modern infertility practices.

How the needs of our changing society and its behaviour are met with state-of-the-art ART practices are reflected in the valuable section on virology, surgical sperm retrieval and cryobiology, as well as the recognition of the value of nurse-led services.

This excellent volume is rounded off by a useful look to the future, the legal consequences of clinical services and gender choice issues, as well as quality management systems.

Male Infertility should be essential reading for all trainees and have a place on the shelves of all centres, large and small, that provide infertility services.

The significance of technological advances in the treatment of male infertility is highlighted, including sperm preparation for insemination, the importance of cryopreservation, techniques for obtaining sperm after retrograde ejaculation and the preparation of sperm from men who are infected with blood-borne viruses.

The book begins with an introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the male and spermatogenesis. The importance of a standardized WHO-recommended semen analysis is the basis of the second chapter, which describes various diagnostic assessments that allow the reader to better understand the importance of sperm parameters and use this information to recommend the most appropriate treatment. The significance of using the correct medium with optimum constituents to maintain sperm viability and optimize the physiological pH is covered in the fourth chapter. Different sperm preparation methods are described in the fifth chapter.

Whilst a basic semen analysis provides basic information, the sixth chapter addresses further diagnostic tests that might help to establish the functionality of sperm from a semen sample. The seventh chapter deals with the immunological contributions to male infertility and how to overcome them and the eighth chapter covers the causes and effects of poor semen quality. While it is generally accepted that treatment options are similar worldwide, the ninth chapter describes subtle differences in practice. The importance of the cryopreservation of sperm is described in detail in the thirteenth chapter and highlights the existence of physiological similarities and differences between fresh and frozen semen samples. The role of the fertility nurse in a clinical setting offering intrauterine insemination (IUI) is described in great detail in the fourteenth chapter, allowing practicing nurses to perfect their techniques. The remaining chapters deal with retrograde sperm preparation, microsurgical aspiration techniques, preparation of semen from a serologically-positive patient, sperm and legal aspects, and sex selection of sperm. Finally, since no treatment should be permitted without informed consent, the appendix provides the reader with links to download the necessary forms from the website of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), a regulatory body responsible for licensing all of the ART clinics in the UK.

Some overlap of subjects may be detected in different chapters, but this has been permitted in order to allow different viewpoints to be provided for the reader. However, we have made every effort to avoid repetition. Readers may also notice occasional conflicts of opinion between different authors, and the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors. As editors, it is our duty to allow our authors a free rein!

This book serves as a guide to evidence-based clinical practice and as a reference text for those embarking on their andrology quest, be they medical students, embryologists, biomedical scientists, nurses or sub-specialty trainees in ART.

First and foremost, I am extremely grateful to my co-editor Dr Bryan Woodward, who came up with the idea of the book and supported me as an excellent co-editor with his patience, understanding and encouragement throughout.

The contribution of excellent review articles from all the contributors, some friends, some my peers and all eminent scientists in their own field have helped to shape this book. I sincerely thank each and every one for agreeing to contribute their knowledge and hard work.

I would also like to extend my appreciation and thanks to Geoff Greenwood, Gavin Smith and Richard Furn at JP Medical Ltd for their continuous support and encouragement.

Since many of the chapters required the use of images and figures whose copyrights were held by others, both Bryan and I are grateful to all copyright holders for granting us permission to make use of their material.

I would also like to pay tribute to the teachings of my religious ‘Guru’ – ‘Sai Baba’ of shirdi, for his guidance and inspiration in ensuring that this book was completed.

Finally, I am extremely indebted to one special individual who has always stood by my side and whose support, encouragement, tolerance and understanding have made the realization of this book possible – my wife, Minaxi Mehta.

I would like to express sincere thanks to my co-editor Dr Jayant Mehta, and echo the gratitude to all of our contributors, and to all of the staff at JP Medical Ltd. Thank you for your patience! I am also indebted to friends and family – there are too many to mention, but you know who you are!