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Teratogenicity is the ability to cause developmental anomalies in a fetus. Things which can cause developmental abnormalities are known as teratogens and they include things like viruses, chemicals, and radiation. The study of teratogenicity and teratogens is known as teratology; all of these words share a Greek root meaning “monster,” a reference to the fact that some developmental abnormalities were viewed as monstrosities or marvels historically.

Substances with teratogenic effects can damage the DNA of a developing fetus. Teratogens may cause anything from abnormal development of a limb to malformation of an organ, and the effects for the developing fetus can vary depending on the teratogen, the gestational age of the fetus, and other factors. Sometimes prenatal exposure to teratogenic substances causes death, while in other instances someone may be born with relatively mild anomalies such as extra fingers or toes.

Substances with known teratogenicity must be handled carefully. Pregnant women are encouraged to avoid exposure to such substances and they are tightly controlled to minimize the risk of inadvertent release. However, as researchers have learned, sometimes the teratogenicity of a substance is not known until it is too late. Thalidomide, for example, was widely used in pregnant women until doctors realized that it was causing developmental abnormalities.

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