Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing, 1985
Abstract
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was prescribed for almost 30 years by physicians who believed the nonsteroidal synthetic estrogen was beneficial in both the treatment of threatened abortions and the prevention of spontaneous abortions. Toxemia, premature delivery, postmaturity, and stillbirth were said to be significantly reduced in patients who were treated with DES.
The consequences of in utero exposure to DES on female progeny have been widely publicized.
However, male progeny also suffer the effects of in utero exposure to DES. These effects include epididymal cysts, small penile size, and cryptorchidism.
Altered reproductive capacity is suggested by diminished sperm counts and sperm penetration assays.
Sources
- Effects of in utero exposure to DES on male progeny, Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing, NCBI PubMed, PMID: 3851834, 1985 Nov-Dec.
- Abnormal Physical Findings in the Male Genital Tract featured image credit Bibbo M. Gill WB, Azizi F. et a/, Follow-up study of male and female offspring of DES exposed mothers, 1977.
DES DIETHYLSTILBESTROL RESOURCES
- Source DES and cryptorchidism studies, DES and hypospadias studies.
- Diethylstilbestrol DES studies listed by topics and date of publication.