Understanding Teratogeny: Causes, Examples, and Prevention of Birth Defects
Teratogeny refers to the ability of a substance or agent to cause birth defects. It can be caused by exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, radiation, or viruses during pregnancy. The term "teratogen" refers to any substance that has the potential to cause birth defects.
Examples of teratogens include:
1. Alcohol: Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects such as facial abnormalities, heart defects, and neural tube defects.
2. Tobacco smoke: Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, particularly heart defects and cleft palate.
3. Lead: Exposure to high levels of lead during pregnancy can cause birth defects such as brain damage, developmental delays, and behavioral problems.
4. Mercury: High levels of mercury exposure during pregnancy can cause birth defects such as brain damage and developmental delays.
5. Valproic acid: This medication is commonly used to treat seizures and migraines, but it has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
6. Thalidomide: This medication was once used to treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, but it was found to cause severe birth defects such as limb deformities and facial abnormalities.
7. Radiation: Exposure to high levels of radiation during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, particularly in the brain and central nervous system.
8. Viral infections: Certain viral infections, such as rubella (German measles) and chickenpox, can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.
It's important to note that not all substances or agents that have teratogenic potential will necessarily cause birth defects in every pregnancy. However, it is important for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to avoid exposure to known teratogens whenever possible.
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