Gender-Based Violence and its Effect on Mother, Fetus and Newborn Baby: A Systematic Review

Abstract: Gender-based violence (GBV) is a major public health concern resulting in physical, psychological, sexual, and social issues. GBV during pregnancy may results in complicated and grave consequences for mother and unborn child. The prevalence of GBV was reportedly higher in developing countries, indicating higher maternal and child mortalities. Effect of GBV on pregnancy has been reported to enhance the chances of prolonged labor, obstructed labor and in severe injuries higher incidents of miscarriages and abortions are also been reported. Moreover, fetal respiratory distress, diarrhea, small for gestaional age and Intra Uterine Growth Retardation (IUGR) have also been reported. This review aims to present a systematic view of genderbased violence and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes and to contribute by filling the existing information gap. Review assessed the effect of GBV during pregnancy on fetal health, reporting infant diarrhea more frequently, along with fever, vomiting, and respiratory distress. The significant association between adverse maternal and fetal outcomes and gender-based violence has been evaluated extensively.