Background: Despite the numerous harms associated with episiotomy during vaginal birth, the risk factors for this procedure remain a topic of controversy. This study aimed to identify the potential risk factors for episiotomy during vaginal birth. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across 7 databases, including PubMed/MedLine, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, Chinese Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang, up to January 2025. Statistical analyses, including heterogeneity tests, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias assessment, were conducted using Stata 18.0 and Review Manager 5.4. Results: A total of 16 articles were included in this meta-analysis, comprising a sample size of 17,502 individuals. Newborn weight (odds ratio OR = 2.393; 95% confidence interval CI = 1.627–3.520; P < .001) and oxytocin use (OR = 2.341; 95% CI = 1.652–3.318; P < .001) were identified as significant risk factors for episiotomy. In contrast, maternal age (OR = 0.978; 95% CI = 0.922–1.038; P = .466), the type of childbirth attendant (OR = 0.920; 95% CI = 0.569–1.488; P = .733), and the duration of the second stage of labor (OR = 1.299; 95% CI = 0.781–2.162; P = .314) were not statistically significant risk factors for episiotomy. Conclusion: High newborn weight and oxytocin use are associated with higher rates of episiotomy. However, other potential risk factors are still controversial due to a lack of sufficient evidence, highlighting the need for more rigorous studies to strengthen the evidence base.
He et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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