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

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.

To explore the association between IPV and selected adverse birth outcomes.

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).

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.

Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate adjusted/unadjusted odds ratios (ORs). Subanalyses explored the effect of emotional/psychological violence on birth outcomes.

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; I(2)=0.70, P<0.001) and preterm birth (OR 1.42, 95% confidence interval 1.21-1.63; I(2)=0.20, P<0.001). No statistically significant association was found for IUGR.

There are associations between IPV and LBW and preterm birth that could be causal.