Final answer:
Changes in a baby's prenatal development can be attributed to a combination of factors including exposure to toxic stress, mom's excessive alcohol use, and poor nutritional intake. These are significant during the embryonic stage which is critical for organ development. Proper maternal nutrition and lifestyle are essential for preventing developmental issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes in a baby's prenatal development can be attributed to all of the following factors: exposure to toxic stress, mom's excessive alcohol use, and poor nutritional intake. These influences are known as teratogens, which are environmental agents that can cause harm to the developing embryo or fetus. It is crucial during the embryonic stage that the mother avoids such toxic substances, as the major events of organ development occur during this period.
Excessive alcohol use can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), which include a range of lifelong issues from minor to major, affecting physical, cognitive, and behavioral development. In addition, the importance of proper nutrition cannot be overstated; for example, nutrients like folic acid can help prevent certain birth defects. Thus, it is vital that the mother maintains a healthy lifestyle to support the developing fetus throughout pregnancy.