Refocusing on the gynecological and obstetrical consequences of intrauterine exposure to DES

Full examination of the DES-exposed pregnant patients is advised, including colposcopy and hysterosalpingography

DiEthylStilbestrol usage review buttress the need for adequate and rigorous research into the use of drugs in pregnancy and ensure that they do more good than harm before being introduced for consumption

1991 Study Abstract

The oncological and obstetrical follow-up is described of 321 patients who presented between 1981 and 1988 in the St Radboud Hospital with a history of intrauterine diethylstilbestrol(DES) exposure.

In 45 out of 321 cases cytological abnormalities were found including 20 cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). No relation could be established between CIN and the extension of the cervical adenosis.

  • 22% of 87 evaluable pregnancies terminated in spontaneous abortion,
  • 13% of the patients delivered immaturely
  • and 27% prematurely.

These percentages were significantly higher than in the rest of the hospital population. The consequences of intrauterine exposure to DES are discussed.

Full examination of the patients is advised, including colposcopy and hysterosalpingography. If abnormalities are present it is advised to offer a timely cerclage in case of pregnancy.

Sources and more information
  • Refocusing on the gynecological and obstetrical consequences of intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES)., Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde, 1991 Jan 19;135(3):89-93., NCBI PMID: 1996166.
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