Effects of in utero exposure to DES on male progeny

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.