Diethylstilboestrol (DES)

Diethylstilboestrol (DES) is a synthetic form of oestrogen. It was prescribed between 1938 and 1971 to women as a means of ensuring a healthy pregnancy and preventing miscarriages.

Use of DES declined in the 1960s after studies showed that it was not effective in preventing pregnancy complications. When given during the first 5 months of a pregnancy, DES could interfere with the development of the reproductive system in a foetus, so any women and their children who were exposed to the drug, need special health care and monitoring.

Follow the links below to find information about DES.

Reviewed September 2009

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5 Resources Found
Results 1 to 5 displayed.
Title:   DES daughters - fertility and pregnancy
Publisher:   Better Health Channel
Description:   Exposure to the anti-miscarriage drug, diethylstilboestrol (DES) while in the womb can cause reproductive changes and fertility problems later in life. DES daughters might have limited contraceptive choices. They also have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and premature labour. Abortions can increase the risk of miscarriage for a DES daughter.
Date:   Jun 2008
Title:   Diethylstilboestrol (DES)- alerts & advisories
Publisher:   Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
Description:   Links to alerts and advisory statements about Diethylstilboestrol (DES)
Date:   Apr 2008
Title:   Screening guidelines for women exposed in utero to diethylstilboestrol (DES)
Publisher:   Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
Description:   Diethylstilboestrol, or DES (also known as stilboestrol), is a synthetic oestrogen which was used between 1940 and the early 1970s to prevent miscarriage in women with a previous poor pregnancy outcome.
Date:   Apr 2008
Title:   DES daughters - possible problems
Publisher:   Better Health Channel
Description:   Diethylstilboestrol, or DES, was prescribed in Australia as an anti-miscarriage drug between 1946 and 1971. Anyone who was exposed to DES needs special medical care because this drug can cause reproductive changes and diseases in both the mothers and their children.
Date:   Nov 2007
Title:   DES daughters - gynaecological changes
Publisher:   Better Health Channel
Description:   Women who were exposed to the drug diethylstilboestrol (DES) while in the womb can experience changes to their reproductive organs including the vagina and cervix. Changes may include vaginal adenosis, altered shape of the cervix or uterus and an increased risk of breast cancer.
Date:   Nov 2007
Results 1 to 5 displayed.