Question

mallary has been consuming alcohol during her pregnancy, and this alcohol has caused a series of defects in her developing child. alcohol has served as a(n) ______ for this pregnancy. iatrogen carcinogen teratogen toxicant

Explanation:

• Iatrogen: Refers to something caused by medical treatment, not relevant here.
• Carcinogen: Causes cancer, not the defect - related context of pregnancy.
• Teratogen: A substance that can cause birth defects in a fetus, which fits as alcohol during pregnancy causing fetal defects.
• Toxicant: A general term for a toxic substance, not specific to pregnancy - related defects.

Answer:

teratogen