teratogen
/ˈtɛrətədʒən/
noun
- A substance, agent, or factor that can cause birth defects or abnormalities in a developing fetus.
- Alcohol is a well-known teratogen that can harm a baby during pregnancy.
- The study identified a common household chemical as a potential teratogen in lab animals.
- Doctors warn pregnant women to avoid certain medications that act as teratogens.