The Dark History of Synthetic Estrogens: DES

Between 1938 and 1971, four million pregnant women were prescribed Diethylstilbestrol, a ‘miracle’ drug that was said to improve chances for a healthy and successful delivery. However, Diethylstilbestrol (DES) proved to become the horror for at least three generations of women, and will continue to haunt generations to come with adverse health effects.

In 1971, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the link between DES consumption and the development of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina and cervix and an increased risk of breast cancer in the daughters of those who consumed the drug. In later studies, it was shown that the sons of those who consumed DES developed an increased risk of testicular and prostate cancer. Additionally, it was discovered that those who were exposed to DES have a higher rate of preterm deliveries and second trimester spontaneous abortions. According to a 1997 study, published in The American Family Physician, even generations as far back as grandchildren can exhibit effects such as an increase in reproductive tract tumors.

Perhaps it is the story of DES that drives the studies and conclusions of Bisphenol-A critic, Dr. Frederick vom Saal. The scientific community persistently advocated the safety of DES for nearly 35 years. Similarly, much of the scientific community currently denies any significant link between average human exposure to Bisphenol-A and estrogenic effects. Perhaps the story of DES teaches us this: never doubt the critic.