Were You Exposed to DES?

     DES is a synthetic hormone that was dispensed to an estimated 4,000,000 women between 1938 and 1971. Thus, as many as 10 million people were exposed in the U.S. alone. DES was claimed to be highly effective in the prevention of miscarriage in troubled pregnancies. The letters "DES" are short for diethylstilbestrol, but the term includes a number of similar compounds that were marketed under dozens of names, including Stilbestrol, Stilbetin, and Dienestrol. DES was banned for use in pregnancy by the Food and Drug Administration in late 1971 after it was found to be associated with a rare form of vaginal and cervical cancer in women who were exposed to it in utero.

     The women who took DES and the children they carried are at risk for certain health problems and many need special medical care.

     Most women find out about their exposure either from their mothers or while undergoing a pelvic exam or an HSG (hysterosalpingogram), a special dye test which shows the size, shape and volume of the inside of the uterus. Cervical abnormalities like a cervical "hood", "ridge" or "cock’s comb", vaginal tissue changes known as "adenosis", and uterine abnormalities such as "hypoplastic" or "T-shaped" are often described as DES "stigmata" or "classic DES changes".

     If you suspect that you may have been exposed to DES, ask your mother or ask your doctor. Although your mother might not recall specifically taking DES (it was generally called "stilbestrol" back then), she might recall being given medication to prevent spotting, bleeding or other signs of a possible miscarriage. It was also given to women who had a history of prior pregnancy loss and to diabetics. Records from the doctor, hospital or pharmacy may be available to confirm that your mother took DES. You and/or your mother are entitled to obtain copies of any medical records that exist.

Next>