Answer :
Final answer:
A teratogen is an environmental agent that can cause damage to the developing embryo or fetus. Alcohol is one example of a teratogen that can cause birth defects known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is not safe and can have severe consequences for the child.
Explanation:
A teratogen is any environmental agent—biological, chemical, or physical—that causes damage to the developing embryo or fetus. Alcohol and most drugs cross the placenta and affect the fetus. Alcohol is not safe to drink in any amount during pregnancy. Excessive maternal drinking while pregnant can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) with life-long consequences for the child ranging in severity from minor to major.
