A teratogen is any agent that can cause physical or functional defects in a developing embryo or fetus. Teratogens typically work by interfering with the normal development of the embryo or fetus. This can happen during any stage of pregnancy, but the risk is greatest during the first trimester when the major organs are being formed. Exposure to a teratogen during this time can lead to serious birth defects, including heart defects, cleft lip or palate, and neural tube defects.
Many different factors can increase the risk of birth defects from exposure to a teratogen. These include the dose of the agent, the timing of exposure, and the susceptibility of the individual fetus. Some birth defects may be more likely to occur if there is a family history of genetic disorders.
There are many different ways to prevent birth defects caused by exposure to teratogens including iron-folic intake and sugar intake reduction. The best way to protect your developing baby is to avoid exposure to known or suspected teratogens during pregnancy. If you must take medication during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of each medication before taking it. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when using chemicals or working with hazardous materials.
Examples of teratogens
- Certain medications, such as isotretinoin (accutane), thalidomide, and valproic acid (Depakote)
- Viruses, such as rubella (German measles), cytomegalovirus, and Zika virus
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as mercury, lead, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
- Exposure to ionizing radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays
This image shows how often the term ‘Teratogen’ is used in relation to other, similar birth terms:
Other Related Terms:
Mutagen: A mutagen is a physical or chemical agent that changes the genetic material, or DNA, of an organism. This change can be caused by errors in replication, or it can be induced by exposure to certain chemicals or radiation. Mutagens can increase the risk of birth defects and cancer.
Carcinogen: A carcinogen is any agent that can cause cancer. Carcinogens can be physical, chemical, or biological agents. Common examples of carcinogens include tobacco smoke, asbestos, and ultraviolet radiation.
Birth Defect: A birth defect is a physical or mental abnormality that is present at birth. Birth defects can be caused by genetic factors, exposure to certain agents during pregnancy, or problems with the development of the embryo or fetus.
Genetic Disorder: A genetic disorder is a condition that is caused by a change in the DNA sequence. Genetic disorders can be inherited from a person’s parents or they can be caused by a new mutation.
Chromosomal abnormality: A chromosomal abnormality is a condition that is caused by a change in the number or structure of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities can be inherited from a person’s parents or they can be caused by a new mutation.
Prenatal Exposure: Prenatal exposure is exposure to certain agents during pregnancy. Prenatal exposure can be caused by maternal exposures, such as medications, infections, and environmental factors. It can also be caused by paternal exposures, such as occupational exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.
Maternal Exposure: Maternal exposure is exposure to certain agents during pregnancy. Maternal exposure can be caused by medications, infections, and environmental factors.
Paternal Exposure: Paternal exposure is exposure to certain agents before conception. Paternal exposure can be caused by occupational exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.
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