This book brings a multidisciplinary approach to the gynecologic care of infants, children, and adolescents. The editors are truly fortunate to have outstanding contributors from the fields of pediatrics, urology, psychology, surgery, and gynecology, who discuss the recognition and treatment of medical illness in these specific age groups. The pathophysiology of disease is stressed. Knowledgeable handling of pediatric patients requires a background in genetics and developmental biology. Genital examination requires forethought and gentleness, particularly in children, so variations from a standard examination are discussed. Ultrasonography and laparoscopy have enhanced our ability to diagnose routine gynecologic complaints of children and adolescents, but new norms for their use must be established. Since the publication of our first edition, the field of pediatric and adolescent gynecology has matured. New contributions to our understanding of this patient population have been made, clinical experience has grown and been documented, and exciting improvements in preventive care have occurred. Nonetheless, this population still tends to be underserved. The demands for quality care affect many specialties, including family practice, pediatrics, urology, pediatric surgery, and pediatric and reproductive endocrinology.