developmental toxicity

Developmental toxicity refers to harmful effects that occur during an organism’s development, especially in the womb, due to exposure to certain chemicals or substances. These effects can disrupt normal growth and development, leading to issues like birth defects, growth problems, or mental impairments. Essentially, when a developing fetus is exposed to harmful agents, it may not develop properly, which can have lasting health consequences. Understanding developmental toxicity helps ensure safety for pregnant individuals and their unborn children by minimizing exposure to potentially dangerous substances during critical growth periods.