Prenatal Environment

Definition

The prenatal environment refers to the environment that a fetus is exposed to during pregnancy, including factors such as maternal health, nutrition, stress levels, exposure to toxins etc.

Analogy

Think of the prenatal environment like soil for a plant. Just as the quality of soil affects how well a plant grows (its nutrients, pH level, presence of pests), so too does the prenatal environment affect how well a fetus develops.

Related terms

Teratogens: These are substances or conditions that may cause birth defects or alter an embryo or fetus's development. They include certain drugs, chemicals, infections diseases etc.

Maternal Stress: Refers to physical or emotional strain experienced by pregnant woman. High levels can negatively impact fetal development.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS): A condition in a child resulting from alcohol exposure during mother's pregnancy causing brain damage and growth problems in child.