Substances capable of causing birth defects are known as what?

Substances that can cause birth defects are known as teratogens. Teratogens have the potential to disrupt normal fetal development during pregnancy, leading to physical malformations or functional abnormalities in the developing fetus. They can be drugs, chemicals, infections, or environmental factors.

Understanding teratogens is crucial for health and safety in various fields, including esthetics, where practitioners may encounter chemicals or treatments that could pose risks to pregnant clients. Knowledge of such substances allows professionals to provide safe services and advice.

In contrast, carcinogens are agents that can lead to cancer, mutagens are substances that cause mutations in genetic material, and endocrine disruptors can interfere with hormonal systems but do not specifically relate to birth defects. Each of these terms refers to different types of harmful substances but does not encompass the specific effects on fetal development that teratogens do.