Systematic Review of Obstetric and Neonatal Complications Associated With Female Genital Mutilation

To assess the prevalence of obstetric and neonatal complications in women with female genital mutilation (FGM) compared to women without FGM. Literature searches carried out on three scientific databases (CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and PubMed). 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. 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. 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. Female genital mutilation (FGM) may be associated with negative obstetric and neonatal health outcomes, particularly in cases of FGM Types II and III.