Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis summarises the results of 84 studies investigating outcomes in women who subsequently deliver after OASI. Evidence is of low quality and does not support the routine practice of elective cesarean to prevent new or worsening AI symptoms in a mixed symptomatic and asymptomatic group of women. There are significant limitations to existing published data, specifically relating to counselling of asymptomatic women and regarding long-term AI outcomes. Further research is required so that women can be provided with personalised risk indicators for AI for birth after OASI.