Why is damage during the first trimester?

Why is damage during the first trimester?

The fetus is most vulnerable during the first 12 weeks. During this period of time, all of the major organs and body systems are forming and can be damaged if the fetus is exposed to drugs, infectious agents, radiation, certain medications, tobacco and toxic substances.

How do chemicals affect a fetus?

Research demonstrates that exposure to chemicals in everyday products like plastics can alter and weaken sperm, dramatically influencing the fertilized egg and development of the fetus. Exposure to toxic chemicals can also lead to testicular and prostate cancer.

Why is the first trimester of pregnancy the most critical?

The first trimester is the most crucial to your baby’s development. During this period, your baby’s body structure and organ systems develop. Most miscarriages and birth defects occur during this period. Your body also undergoes major changes during the first trimester.

In what trimester of pregnancy can environmental factors cause the most damage to the fetus?

Harmful exposures during the first trimester have the greatest chance of causing major birth defects. This is because many important developmental changes take place during this time.

Can inhaling chemicals cause miscarriage?

If you inhale (breathe in) solvents, you risk liver, kidney and brain damage and even death. During pregnancy, exposure to (coming in contact with) solvents, especially if you work with them, may cause problems for you and your baby, including: Miscarriage.

Can strong chemical smell affect pregnancy?

Most chemicals you come across in your daily life won’t harm your baby. But if you are exposed to large quantities of chemicals for a long time, it’s possible your child will be at an increased risk of congenital disorders or future health problems.

Which is the hardest trimester in pregnancy?

The first trimester of pregnancy can often be the hardest. Pregnancy hormones, extreme fatigue, nausea and vomiting, tender breasts, and perpetually needing to wee make life growing a human no easy feat.

What are 4 environmental factors that can harm a fetus?

Environmental factors which have been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcome include smoking, video display terminals, anesthetic gases, antineoplastic drugs and exposure to lead, selenium and inorganic mercury.

What can cause a fetus to have a genetic disorder?

Factors that increase your risk of having a baby with a genetic disorder include: It is important to know that some birth defects, developmental delays, and/or illnesses can be caused by prenatal exposure to drugs, alcohol, or other environmental factors. There are several types of disorders that can be seen during pregnancy:

What kind of birth defects are caused by exposure to organic solvents?

Exposure to organic solvents during the first trimester of pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects like spina bifida, heart defects, clubfoot and deafness THIRTEEN-FOLD. Also called methylbenzene, toluene is the most frequently used organic solvent in the home and workplace.

How are chromosomal abnormalities cause a miscarriage?

Potential Chromosome-Related Causes of Miscarriage. Estimates suggest that anywhere between 40 and 75 percent of all miscarriages are caused by random genetic problems in the developing baby. In most instances, scientists do not know the exact reason why chromosomal abnormalities lead to miscarriage.

When to avoid prenatal exposure to teratogens?

In general, if medication is required, the lowest dose possible should be used and combination drug therapies and first trimester exposures should be avoided. The types or severity of abnormalities caused by a teratogenic agent is also dependent on the genetic susceptibilities carried by the mother and fetus.