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.
