Despite growing controversy surrounding its use as a “morning after pill,” diethylstilbestrol (DES) is prescribed liberally for rape victims
1978 Paper Abstract
Diamond questions the use of DES (Diethylstilbestrol) as a method of pregnancy prevention after rape because of
- the increased risks of vaginal cancer in women exposed to DES in vitro;
- the relationship to congenital anomalies and to endometrial carcinoma;
- and the actual number of pregnancies resulting from rape.
According to Diamond, studies have shown that an insignificant number of pregnancies occur because of rape and to support this claim he cites a study conducted in Minnesota where 4,000 rapes resulted in 0 pregnancies. Diamond also assails the Catholic health care institutions which permit the use of DES as a postcoital contraceptive claiming that they are in actuality performing early abortion by medication.
Sources
- Physician notes hazards of DES use to prevent pregnancy, Hospital progress, NCBI PubMed PMID: 631811, 1978 Mar.
- Featured image lighthouseprc.
DES DIETHYLSTILBESTROL RESOURCES
- Source DES and pregnancy studies.
- Diethylstilbestrol DES studies listed by topics and date of publication.