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DES

DES is a synthetic estrogen that was heavily prescribed between 1940 and 1970. Known as diethylstilbestrol, DES was used to prevent miscarriages. There were an estimated ten million children that were exposed to the DES during pregnancy and are suffering side effects because of it. Some DES problems that have occurred include physical, psychological, and reproductive system abnormalities and disorders.

DES exposure has been found to affect even third generation children from DES exposed women. Legal action has been made against DES manufacturers mainly by daughters of DES exposed mothers. In the event that you have been exposed to DES, regular mammograms should be taken due to the increased risk of developing breast cancer, in addition to notifying your gynecologist of the DES exposure to make sure proper monitoring is performed.

DES was not the answer to a healthy pregnancy and has left individuals with serious side effects instead. Once recommended for all pregnancies, DES may require individuals to seek specialized medical care. Symptoms of DES exposure are not always apparent so it is important to notify your healthcare professions to ensure DES has not adversely affected you. For more information on your legal rights and options regarding DES contact us.

MedLine Plus Drug Information - Guide to prescription and over-the-counter medications provided by the United States Pharmacopeia.