Teratogens Essay

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to take a look into Teratogens and to discuss the epidemic that it has on today’s society. With an increase in birth defects we will look at the relationship between teratogens and factors both in and out of our control. In this paper we will look at what Teratogens are, and main factors that help aid in the production of these birth defects. We will take a more in depth look into the four classifications of teratogens: Physical agents, Infections agents, Drugs, and Metabolic conditions, and the symptoms that are accompanied with each classification. In conclusion I will talk about what is being done in hopes of finding preventative measures. We will examine the pros and cons regarding these preventative

For many centuries scientists and scholars wanted to know the reason behind abnormal human development, and because of that many outlandish theories developed. These theories ranged from “constellations…fortune-tellers, possible association with the devil, and a woman’s maternal impressions.” It was not until the 19th century when scientists started to believe that these malformations were caused by deviations in the developmental process. With this theory scientists began experimenting on animals to try and determine what factors caused teratogens. Scientists were able to categorize birth defects into four types. The first type being“reduced or absent body parts, enlarged or multiple body parts, an aberration of form and position, and hermaphroditism.” Thanks to today’s advancements in both science and medicine there have been great strides in figuring out what causes these birth defects, and have come to the conclusion that what may be teratogenic in humans might not be teratogenic in other species, which can lead to inconclusive

The problem associated with the father’s side is the “ability to produce viable sperm.” Researchers have found that over the counter medications, and drugs that are considered teratogenic can affect the sperm, which will ultimately lead to genetic disorders found in their offspring; However, due to the fact that sperm is continuously reproduced it leaves a smaller window for the effected sperm to fertilize an egg. The mother plays a bigger role in this unfortunate situation due to the fact that she is the one carrying the child. When looking at the mother to determine possible birth defects that could arise their existing conditions are taken into account, and what medications they are on to ease the burdens of labor. Some examples of existing conditions that play a role in the development of teratogens are diabetes, and epilepsy. If not taken care of properly, diabetes can lead to a high birth weight where the baby grows to large, and that can increase the risk of trauma to both mother and child. With epilepsy it has been found if left untreated, it can lead to the separation of the placenta from the uterus which can lead to death in the fetus. Medications play a big role when dealing with the fetus, because they want to prescribe medications that are