Peer-reviewed article
Systematic Review of Obstetric and Neonatal Complications Associated With Female Genital Mutilation.
Bertuit J, Luzolo Nzinga AM, Jaouan ML, Feipel V ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This systematic review examined how female genital mutilation (FGM) affects pregnancy and newborn health by analyzing nine observational studies published between 2010 and 2021. The review found clear associations between FGM and three serious complications during childbirth: blockage at the vaginal outlet, emergency cesarean sections, and perineal tears. The evidence was strongest for FGM Types II and III, though researchers' conclusions remain divided on other complications like postpartum bleeding and newborn outcomes.
Key points
- Nine observational studies (case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional designs) were included in the systematic review
- FGM was associated with vaginal outlet obstruction during labor
- FGM was associated with increased emergency cesarean births
- FGM was associated with perineal tears (vaginal tissue damage)
- Evidence for FGM Types II and III showed clearer associations with harm than Type I
Limitations
The review does not specify which countries the included studies covered, making it unclear whether findings apply globally or to specific regions. The review notes that researchers' conclusions remain divided on several complications, suggesting the current evidence base is incomplete for many outcomes.
Abstract
Objective To assess the prevalence of obstetric and neonatal complications in women with female genital mutilation (FGM) compared to women without FGM. Data sources Literature searches carried out on three scientific databases (CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and PubMed). Study selection Selected observational studies published from 2010 to 2021 that assessed prolonged second phase of labor, vaginal outlet obstruction, emergency cesarean birth, perineal tear, instrumental births, episiotomy, and postpartum hemorrhage in women with and without FGM, as well as Apgar score and resuscitation of their newborns. Results Nine studies were selected, including case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. There were associations between FGM and vaginal outlet obstruction, emergency cesarean birth, and perineal tears. Conclusion For obstetric and neonatal complications other than those listed in the "Results" section, researchers' conclusions remain divided. Still, there is some evidence to support the impact of FGM on obstetric and neonatal harm, particularly in cases of FGM Types II and III.