Fetal Development- Factors That Can Affect This Growth Process

There are many factors that need to be considered on a developing fetus. There are environmental and genetic factors. 

There are teratogens which are birth defects that can be caused from different agents such as a drug. Often it is because of the dose amount that can cause birth defects. 

There is also genetic susceptibility which is a type of abnormalities caused by a teratogen that is connected to a genotype of a woman who is pregnant. 

Further, the time of the exposure of teratogens will have different effects on the developing fetus than other times. 

Specifically, they are vulnerable to environmental changes when the fetus is in the stage of developing organs.

Prescription and non- prescription drugs can function as a teratogen and can contribute to abnormal fetal development. 

Drinking a lot of alcohol can also contribute as well. Psychoactive drugs can also interfere with fetal development.

The following can also function as teratogens and can create abnormalities in fetal development: 

nicotine, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and methamphetamine.

There are some environmental hazards that can lead to abnormal fetal development as well. Some of them are radiation, pesticides, petrochemicals, pollution, and toxic waste. Some infectious diseases can also cause fetal abnormalities. 

Genetics and age of women in pregnancy are also factors in contributing to birth defects. If a female gets pregnant too young such as a teen or older than in her thirties, she is considered a risk for abnormality in her pregnancy. Demonstrating proper nutrition and getting proper pre-natal care are also important for a developing fetus to grow healthy (Santrock, 2009).

A test on fetal development regarding anxiety and depression showed that research indicated a detrimental effect of maternal psychological distress during pregnancy in fetal development.

This was especially pertinent when the risk factors of a mothers’ psychopathological symptoms and substance consumption are put together (Conde, et al., 2010).

References

Conde, A.  Figueiredo, B., Tendais, I., Teixeira, Costa, R., Pacheco, A., Rodriguz, M. C., Nogueira, R. (2010) Mother’s anxiety and depression and associated risk factors during early pregnancy: effects on fetal growth and activity at 20–22 weeks of Gestation, Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, Vol 31(2), Jun, pp. 70-82.

Santrock, J. W.(2009). A Topical Approach to Life-Span Development (Third ed.). (M. Sugarman, Ed.) New York: McGraw-Hill.

By Diane Gammon M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counselor

                                           Blog Website LivingWithHopeCounseling.com