The most comprehensive one-volume guide of its kind, this indispensable reference work presents information on teratogenic agents in a ready-reference format. The revised and expanded twelfth edition contains approximately three hundred new entries -- including one hundred newly listed agents and developmental genes that cause syndromes or congenital defects. Also included are overviews of recent literature on clinical and experimental teratology, including important Japanese literature not easily available to English-language researchers.

As in previous editions, this volume emphasizes human data and covers pharmaceuticals, chemicals, environmental pollutants, food additives, household products, and viruses. A special effort has been made to obtain as much information as possible on drugs and other agents to which pregnant women should not be exposed. Substances are listed alphabetically and each entry briefly summarizes research procedures and results. In addition, a complete list of references is included for each agent.

From the archive:

“Think of the kids you don’t have,” Mr. Levchin quoted them as saying. “Think of your unborn grandkids.”

It is best not to wear a denim miniskirt so short that when seated it practically disappears beneath the protuberance of one's pregnant belly, producing an image that is more gynecological than fashionable.

Lauer: How far along are you?
Spears: I don’t know. I think six to seven months.

Spears: That driving incident, I did it with my dad. I’d sit on his lap and I drive. We’re country.