Reference no: EM133371313

Assignment:

This module presented risk factors and teratogens that can negatively affect a developing fetus and cause long term effects on the development a child. How would you explain the risks of harmful teratogens and the benefits of a healthy pregnancy to a young expectant young mother and father-to-be.

Types of Risk

Biological risk factors are threats to a child's developing system before, during, or after birth. The prenatal period occurs during pregnancy and is the period when embryological and fetal development occurs. Prenatal factors include maternal illness and substance abuse. Any substance that can cause birth defects is called a teratogen (for example: radiation or alcohol) Rubella, or German measles, is a highly contagious virus that is particularly damaging if contracted by a woman during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) has severe effects on the developing embryo or fetus that can cause mental retardation, vision and hearing loss, and learning disabilities.

Sexually transmitted diseases affect a mother and her partner and can have serious implications for her child. HIV and AIDS can be passed on to the fetus and can cause damage to the central nervous system, among other problems.

Maternal abuse of drugs and alcohol can have long-term effects on fetal and infant health. Maternal age can also be a risk factor, with offspring of very young mothers being at greatest risk.