DES DAUGHTERS
You are a DES daughter if your mother took DES while she was pregnant
with you. While most DES daughters do not have obvious symptoms, DES can
cause serious health problems in some women. It is important to know if
you are DES-exposed so you can take steps to protect your health.
WHAT TO DO
If you know you are DES-exposed (or think you might be):
- Tell your doctor, and get the recommended pelvic exam for DES daughters
at least once a year.
- Learn what is involved in the recommended
pelvic exam for DES daughters.
- Discuss your pelvic exam with your doctor. The recommended exam for
DES daughters is somewhat different from the routine exam for other women.
- Visit your doctor as soon as you think you may be pregnant to be sure
you get the medical care you need early in pregnancy. You need special care
even if you have already had a successful pregnancy.
- Get a regular mammogram every one or two years beginning at age 50.
Before that, discuss your individual breast cancer risk with your doctor
to develop a program for breast cancer screening. Practice monthly breast
self-examination.
- Ask for a second opinion from a doctor experienced in caring for DES
daughters whenever any surgery on the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes or
uterus is recommended.
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