The lasting effects of DES led to various health problems that emerged years or even decades after exposure. These consequences affect three generations: the women who used the drug (DES mothers), their unborn children (DES daughters and sons), and possibly their grandchildren.

The exposure of DES’ effects was a sobering lesson about the long-term risks of prenatal drug exposure. Many of the millions exposed to DES are still being asked to regularly check in with their doctor or practitioner to track their health and catch any signs of DES’ effects early or if they show any other symptoms that could link back to the drug.

The youngest DES daughters and sons are now in their 40s–50s, so researchers continue to watch for late-onset effects among these groups.