What is the term for the unintended effects of drugs on fetal development?

The term that refers to the unintended effects of drugs on fetal development is "teratogenic effect." This term specifically denotes the ability of certain substances, including drugs, to cause malformations or developmental abnormalities in a fetus when exposed during pregnancy. Teratogens can disrupt the normal growth and development processes, leading to a range of potential birth defects or developmental issues, making the understanding of this term crucial in fields such as medicine, pharmacology, and obstetrics.

In this context, the other terms do not specifically address the unintended effects of drugs on fetal development. "Genotoxic effect" refers to substances that damage genetic material, potentially leading to mutations, while "carcinogenic effect" pertains to agents that can cause cancer. The "embryocidal effect" involves substances that may terminate embryonic development altogether rather than causing specific developmental abnormalities. Therefore, "teratogenic effect" is the most accurate and relevant term when discussing unintended drug effects on fetal development.