A teratogen is any substance such as a chemical, medication, radiation, virus or infection, etc., that can cause malformation of an embryo. Teratogens can be found anywhere, such as your own home or workplace. It is proven that “teratogens are thought to have the ability to affect the fetus about 10 to14 days after conception” (“Teratogens”, n.d.). The harmful effects are “influenced by fetal genetic vulnerability, type and amount of teratogen, and timing of the exposure during pregnancy” (Palenchar, 2002). Two substances that can be easily avoided and lower the chance of birth defects or disabilities are smoking and alcohol. Consuming alcohol while pregnant can cause cognitive deficits, heart damage, or delayed growth. Fetal Alcohol
