Women Who Took DES
Women who were pregnant between 1938 and 1971 and took DES, regardless of whether a live birth resulted, are considered DES exposed. Women who took DES have a 35% greater risk for breast cancer than women who never took DES, and should be particularly cautious about breast care and self-exam.An alternative to estrogen replacement therapy is advised for women who took DES according to Pat Cody of DES Action USA. (see page 2 of this article for Pat's statement)
If you think you were exposed to DES during pregnancy, it's important that you discuss this with your physician so that he can be alert for any changes that could be related to your exposure. It's important for DES mothers to discuss this with the adult children who were born so that they can inform their physicians to look for possible consequences caused by prenatal exposure to DES. Your children could need special exams and care from a medical professional.
Women who are unsure whether they were given DES should request their medical records.
Next pageFinding Out If You Were Exposed to DESPage 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
