pharmacological teratology

Pharmacological teratology is the study of how medications and drugs taken during pregnancy can affect the developing fetus. It examines which substances might cause birth defects or developmental issues, understanding the risks associated with drug use at different stages of pregnancy. This field helps healthcare providers assess the safety of medications, guiding them to recommend or avoid certain drugs to protect fetal health while managing maternal health needs. It combines knowledge of pharmacology and embryology to ensure maternal treatments do not inadvertently harm the unborn child.