👉 Teratogen is a medical term that refers to substances or chemicals that are capable of causing significant changes in the developing fetus. These substances can include hormones, drugs, and other substances that are known to cause birth defects, including neural tube defects (NTDs), limb malformations, and sex differences. Teratogens may also include environmental factors such as maternal exposure to radiation, infections, or chemicals that can interfere with fetal development. The term "teratogen" is often used in the