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Teratogen: (teˈratəjən) noun.
An agent or factor that causes malformation of an embryo.
An embryo is most vulnerable between the third and ninth week of pregnancy...
Damage can be done before a mother even realizes she is pregnant.
What are Teratogens
Teratogens are substances or factors that can harm an embryo as it is developing inside the womb. As an embryo begins developing, cells are dividing rapidly. Organ cells are becoming specialized, and the organs of a burgeoning human are being created and perfected. A teratogen is something that can affect this initial development when organs are vulnerable.
Types of Teratogens
Teratogens come in a variety of forms. Chemicals introduced to the mother's body, such as drugs, alcohol and smoking, can affect the forming embryo in a number of harmful ways. The health of the mother and illnesses her body may be battling can also affect the development of the embryo.
When Most Vulnerable
When are teratogens most likely to affect an embryo and what organ systems are involved.
This site was designed as a class project.
I hope the information can help you
deliver a healthy baby,
ready to tackle the world as he or she grows.
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