a group of diseases and pathological conditions, the occurrence of which is associated with a violation of the processes of development of the organism at various stages of its formation in the antenatal period (see ANTENATAL PATHOLOGY). They are divided into two groups: hereditary and non-hereditary. The latter are associated with the influence of adverse factors of the internal and environmental environment – physical, chemical, biological, acting during pregnancy. Their influence is most pronounced in special periods, which are called critical periods. These include the period of implantation (7-12 days of pregnancy), the period of formation of organ rudiments (3-6 weeks), the period of formation of the placenta (3rd month of pregnancy). Prevention of the birth of a child with a congenital pathology includes the elimination of adverse factors that can cause it, medical genetic counseling. A complete examination of the newborn is necessary for the purpose of early detection and correction of disorders.