UNIT 2 Maternal, prenatal and genetic influences on development of defects and diseases. Maternal, Prenatal, and Genetic Influences on Development of Defects and Diseases 1. Maternal Influences These refer to the mother’s health, habits, and environment during pregnancy that can directly affect fetal development. a. Maternal Nutrition b. Maternal Infections (TORCH) c. Chronic Maternal Illnesses d. Substance Use and Lifestyle Factors e. Environmental Exposures 2. Prenatal Influences These involve conditions