Lurie JM, et al. - Researchers performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine if and how female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is associated with painful gynecologic and obstetric complications in women affected by the practice. The literature documenting specific indicators of pain and obstetric complications after FGM/C was systematically searched and critically reviewed. Gynecologic outcomes included were dyspareunia (ie, pain with intercourse or pain with vaginal penetration), dysuria (ie, pain, burning, or discomfort with urination), dysmenorrhea (ie, painful menstruation), and urinary tract infection, as well as obstetric outcomes such as prolonged labor, perineal tears, episiotomy (ie, a surgical incision of the perineum allowing a newborn to pass through), cesarean section, and instrumental delivery. One hundred sixteen studies with a total of 77,324 women who had undergone FGM/C and 63,949 women without FGM/C were assessed. Pooled estimates from cross-sectional studies yielded evidence suggesting a higher risk for dyspareunia, dysuria, perineal tears, and prolonged labor among individuals with FGM/C. In addition, pooled estimates from case–control studies yielded evidence indicating a higher risk for episiotomies among individuals with FGM/C. Insufficient evidence was gained for the association of FGM/C with dysmenorrhea, urinary tract infection, instrumental deliveries, or cesarean sections.