Teratogenesis

Teratogenesis is a process that occurs during pregnancy and can lead to the development of birth defects in the baby. This process is associated with the influence of various factors on the developing fetus, such as chemicals, viruses, bacteria, radiation and other factors.

Teratogenesis can be caused by both external and internal factors. External factors may include environmental influences, such as toxic substances in the air, water or food, which can enter the mother's body and affect the development of the fetus. Intrinsic factors may be associated with genetic disorders in the mother, such as mutations in genes that control fetal development.

There are several types of teratogenesis, including embryonal, fetopathic and placental. Embryonic teratogenesis is associated with the development of the fetus inside the uterus, and fetopathic teratogenesis occurs after birth, when the fetus is already in the mother's body. Placental teratogenesis occurs when harmful substances enter the fetal bloodstream through the placenta.

The consequences of teratogenesis can be different and depend on the type of teratogenesis and its severity. Some of them can lead to serious diseases such as congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, cancer and others. Others may cause less serious problems, such as developmental delays or minor defects in appearance.

To prevent teratogenesis, it is necessary to monitor the health of the mother and take measures to protect the fetus from harmful factors. This may include limiting the use of alcohol, drugs and other harmful substances, and maintaining good hygiene and safety in the workplace.

In addition, there are treatments for teratogenesis that can help prevent the development of birth defects. For example, in embryonal teratogenesis, drugs may be used to prevent the development of neural tube defects. For fetopathic teratogenesis, medications can be used to help reduce the severity of symptoms.

The term "teratogenesis" describes changes caused by exposure to exogenous (surrounding the body) factors that can lead to disruption of the normal process of development of the body. The causes of developmental disorders can be both physical and biological factors, which include both human and animal organisms themselves, and the use of various chemical and biological drugs, as well as radiation.