WOMEN WHO TOOK DES
A Guide for Women Who Took DES
During Pregnancy From 1938 to 1971
National Cancer Institute
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
National Institutes of Health
DID YOU TAKE DES?
If you were pregnant between 1938 and 1971, and took prescription drugs
during your pregnancy, you could have taken DES. All women who took DES
during pregnancy, whether or not the pregnancy resulted in a live birth,
are considered DES-exposed.
Breast Care
If you took DES, you have a slightly increased risk for breast cancer, so
pay particularly close attention to your breast care. Special surveillance
should be given to women with a personal history of breast cancer or a history
of breast cancer in a mother or sister. Early detection of breast cancer
may reduce the need for extensive surgery and increase the chance for a
complete recovery.
Mammogram
WHAT TO DO
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your DES-exposed
children:
- Tell your doctor that you are DES-exposed (or think you may have taken
DES).
- Get a mammogram every one to two years beginning at age 50. Regular
mammography is the best method for early detection of breast cancer.
- Have a breast exam by a health professional at least once a year.
- Examine your breasts monthly. Call 1-800-4-CANCER for a free brochure
on breast self-examination.
- Request one of the booklets listed on page 7 to give to your daughter
or son.
- Talk with your adult children if you know you received DES during your
pregnancy with them, or think you may have taken it. Your children may need
special care.
Your Daughter(s)
DES daughters of all ages need regular screening exams for a rare form of
vaginal cancer (clear cell cancer). During pregnancy, all DES daughters
need special care even if they have already had children. DES daughters
may have an increased risk for infertility.
Your Son(s)
DES sons are at increased risk for non-cancerous cysts on the back of the
testicles (on the epididymis), and for underdeveloped testicles. DES sons
should practice testicular self-examination regularly. Some research has
also shown there may be a link between high doses of DES and problems with
fertility.
Talking with Your Children
Discussing DES with your children may not be easy. You can get advice, support,
and a special booklet on this topic by calling a DES Hotline or one of the
DES consumer organizations listed in this booklet.
Getting Your Medical Records
You can learn more about how to request and interpret medical records by
reading the DES Basic Booklet (one of the booklets in this series). You
can get this and other booklets by calling a DES Hotline or a consumer organization
listed in this booklet.
