A systematic review and meta-analysis of intimate partner violence during pregnancy and selected birth outcomes

Abstract Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) has a detrimental impact on the lives of women worldwide. Several studies have examined the effect IPV has on adverse birth outcomes when it occurs during pregnancy. Objectives To explore the association between IPV and selected adverse birth outcomes. Search strategy Multiple databases were searched to identify studies investigating the association between IPV and low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth, and/or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Selection criteria Included studies defined the perpetrator of violence as an intimate partner, the type of violence as physical and/or sexual, and the study outcomes as LBW, preterm birth, or IUGR, with violence preceding delivery. Data collection and analysis Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate adjusted/unadjusted odds ratios (ORs). Subanalyses explored the effect of emotional/psychological violence on birth outcomes. Main results Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria (15 LBW, 12 preterm birth, 4 IUGR). IPV was associated with LBW (OR 1.18, 95% confidence interval 1.05–1.31; I2 = 0.70, P < 0.001) and preterm birth (OR 1.42, 95% confidence interval 1.21–1.63; I2 = 0.20, P < 0.001). No statistically significant association was found for IUGR. Conclusions There are associations between IPV and LBW and preterm birth that could be causal.