Background - Share Your Story

As part of Australia’s forced adoption practices, many unmarried mothers were given Diethylstilbestrol (DES)—a synthetic oestrogen used to suppress lactation—before, during, and after childbirth. Despite being banned for use in poultry in the U.S. in 1959 due to its carcinogenic properties, DES continued to be administered in Australian maternity wards.

As reported in the 60 Minutes Australia episode "Bitter Pill" (15 June 2025), Origins Australia has long documented the use of DES, which affected over 150,000 mothers. Many of these women have suffered serious health issues, including cervical and ovarian cancers. In addition, research shows that DES exposure in utero has caused reproductive abnormalities and cancer in their children and grandchildren.

Yet, no formal Australian research has been conducted to investigate the generational effects of DES.

To help address this, Origins Australia has developed surveys to gather information on:

1. The health impacts of DES on mothers who were given it; and

2. The health effects on children exposed to DES in utero (DES sons and daughters) and in subsequent generations (DES grandchildren).

We encourage all those affected by DES to share their experiences. Your input is crucial to raise awareness and advocate for further research and justice.

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To access the forms, click on the appropriate button below.