What term describes substances that can lead to birth defects?

The term that describes substances capable of causing birth defects is teratogens. Teratogens can interfere with fetal development during pregnancy, leading to physical and functional anomalies in the developing baby. These can include a wide range of effects, such as malformations of organs and limbs or developmental delays in areas like cognitive function or mobility.

In contrast, carcinogens are substances that increase the risk of cancer, while mutagens are agents that cause genetic mutations. Neurotoxins specifically target the nervous system, causing damage to nerves and cognitive functions. Although these agents are harmful in their respective contexts, they do not specifically relate to the development of birth defects in the same way that teratogens do. Thus, teratogens are distinct in their focus on the developmental impacts on a fetus, establishing them as the correct term in this context.