What is a Teratogen?

A teratogen is any medication, chemical, infectious disease, or environmental agent that could interfere with the development of the fetus during pregnancy. The result may be loss of the pregnancy, a birth defect, or pregnancy complications.

Common teratogens may include:

• prescribed or over-the-counter medications or vaccinations
• diseases or infections
• exposure in the workplace, at home, or in the community to chemical agents such as paints, varnishes, and pesticides
• exposure to physical agents such as excessive heat or radiation
• excessive consumption of agents known or suspected of being harmful to the developing baby such as alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, vitamins or illicit drugs