Effect of type III female genital mutilation on obstetric outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Giulia Bonavina, S. Spinillo, Alexandros Sotiriadis, Alessandro Bulfoni, Randa Kaltoud, Stefano Salvatore, Massimo Candiani, Paolo Ivo Cavoretto
Abstract
Background: Controversial evidence suggests a potential association between female genital mutilation (FGM/C) and adverse obstetric outcomes, with type III FGM/C (infibulation) carrying the greatest risk. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess current rate of adverse obstetric outcomes in women with type III female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C; infibulation) delivering across different settings worldwide. Methods: statistic. Meta regression for relevant covariates was performed when data on relevant confounders were available. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to assess quality of observational studies. The level of evidence was assessed with the GRADE method. Results: = 0 %). No difference was found regarding obstetric anal sphincter injuries and mode of delivery in these women. Deinfibulation achieved similar obstetric and neonatal outcomes to women who never had type III FGM. The overall quality of the studies was adequate (median NOS score: 7; IQR: 6-8), the level of evidence, according to the GRADE assessment, was low. Conclusions: : PROSPERO CRD42023421993.