Running head: WEEK 1 RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT 1

Week 1 Research Assignment

Carla Porter

DEP2004 Life Span Development

Keiser University

September 4th, 2021

WEEK 1 RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT 2

Week 1 Research Assignment

The growth and development of an embryo can be affected my numerous factors. Many

studies have been conducted regarding how mothers exposed to teratogens can harm their unborn

child. Damage is not always evident at birth and could appear later in life (Kail & Cavanaugh,

2019). These studies over the years have been based on what the woman is exposed to during

prenatal development. What about the male’s sperm? Could the same harmful conditions affect

the sperm and in turn affect the fetus?  

Sadly, many drugs, diseases, and environmental hazards were not found to be

harmful until the 1950’s when more than 7,000 babies were born with deformities such

as abnormal limbs. These hazards are called teratogens; agents that cause abnormal prenatal

development. Some of the most common are nicotine, alcohol, AIDS, and air pollution. Many of

the abnormalities will occur between week 3 and week 9 of the embryo to fetal

development. However, the reduced exposure that a woman has to teratogens the less the risk of

the developmental issues.

Men have babies, too! Teratogens have an impact on not only the female reproductive

system but, the male’s reproductive system as well. When exposed to teratogens, they enter

the bloodstream and diminish the quality of the sperm. Sperm count and mobility is reduced

when men drink, smoke, or take drugs. Scientists are now finding that this can contribute

to miscarriage, down syndrome, or other birth defects. 

 
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Women have always been encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle while pregnant or

trying to get pregnant. Prenatal care is important. This is true for men as well. Proper diet,

exercise, and protection from anything harmful to the child is recommended prior to conception,

during development, and after birth.  

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References

FAS Community Resource Center. (n.d.). MEN HAVE BABIES, TOO. Men have babies,

too! http://www.come-over.to/FAS/mentoo.htm. 

Carl T. Hall, C. S. W. (2012, February 3). Teen males who smoke risk sperm damage / study
links birth defects to tobacco. SFGATE. https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Teen-
Males-Who-Smoke-Risk-Sperm-Damage-Study-2987751.php. 

Kail, R. V., & Cavanaugh, J. C. (2019). Human development: A life-span view. Cengage.