Effects Of Teratogens
It is important that newly pregnant women know that teratogens are environmental substances/agents that harm the development of the fetus. These substances are dangerous because the can cross the placental barrier and negatively affect the fetus. Some of them include: alcohol (causes cardiac, skeletal, and urogenital abnormalities), tobacco (causes low birth weight prematurity; respiratory problems, cleft palate, etc.), cocaine (causes irritability, restlessness, tremors; medically and psychologically fragile, etc.), and marijuana (can cause neurological effects; low birth weight, learning problems, etc.). Some infections and diseases are also called teratogens, such as AIDS, rubella, German measles, which, during the first trimester can cause
blindness, heart defects, deafness, etc. Additionally, it is important to understand that larger amounts of a teratogenic substances over longer periods of time can have more potent effects on the fetus.
It was discovered that by providing nutritional supplements to women who were pregnant and had a difficult socioeconomic circumstance, their babies (at age 1) performed better on perceptual habituation and play behavior than those who did not receive the supplement. A healthy lifestyle is essential to a positive development of the fetus. Based on that, food sources high on protein and vitamins during the prenatal stage and postnatal stage are necessary for the physical and intellectual development of the infant.
Some recommendations that promote a healthy pregnancy include eating a healthy diet (high in folic acid). Also, it is important that pregnant women eliminate teratogens based on the negative effects they have in the fetus. During and after pregnancy, it is recommended that women see their health care provider frequently as it is associated to less birth complications. Finally, a positive support system can be beneficial during pregnancy, which can be stressful to many women. Fathers and family members should be available to listen and support future mothers.
blindness, heart defects, deafness, etc. Additionally, it is important to understand that larger amounts of a teratogenic substances over longer periods of time can have more potent effects on the fetus.
It was discovered that by providing nutritional supplements to women who were pregnant and had a difficult socioeconomic circumstance, their babies (at age 1) performed better on perceptual habituation and play behavior than those who did not receive the supplement. A healthy lifestyle is essential to a positive development of the fetus. Based on that, food sources high on protein and vitamins during the prenatal stage and postnatal stage are necessary for the physical and intellectual development of the infant.
Some recommendations that promote a healthy pregnancy include eating a healthy diet (high in folic acid). Also, it is important that pregnant women eliminate teratogens based on the negative effects they have in the fetus. During and after pregnancy, it is recommended that women see their health care provider frequently as it is associated to less birth complications. Finally, a positive support system can be beneficial during pregnancy, which can be stressful to many women. Fathers and family members should be available to listen and support future mothers.