COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT DES

Will the children of DES daughters and sons be affected?

There are no scientific data that DES has long term effects on the children of DES-exposed daughters and sons.

Could DES taken during one pregnancy have affected children of later ones?

There is no scientific evidence that DES taken with one pregnancy affected subsequent pregnancies.

I have some unusual health problems that on one in my family has ever had. Could they be caused by DES?

If you are concerned about any particular health problem and its possible relationship to DES, check with your doctor or call a DES consumer organization. Some DES-exposed people are bound to have other conditions which are not related to DES.

What about oral contraceptives or estrogen replacement therapy for DES daughters?

No studies on the effects of oral contraceptives or estrogen replacement therapy on DES-exposed women have been done. It is important for you to discuss the benefits and risks of taking oral contraceptives or replacement estrogens with your doctor.

How can I find out about results of new research?

Call the "DES Hotline" in your area, one of the DES consumer organizations, or the Cancer Information Service for the latest information about DES research. The National Cancer Institute began a new DES research and education program in 1993. Stay informed about new research findings.



Coping with DES Exposure

Helping Yourself and Helping Others

Talking with others about DES may help you cope with DES exposure. It is also a way to help others discover whether they may be exposed. They can share your concerns and help provide support.

Contact a DES consumer organization. The person who will answer the telephone has spoken with many DES-exposed people and can provide support and assistance.

"I was in the dark and alone...Reading the literature you sent me was like breathing fresh air for the first time."

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