Diabetic and Hypertensive Disorders Following Miscarriage: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

(1) Background: Miscarriages occur in approximately 15–25% of all pregnancies. There is limited evidence suggesting an association between history of miscarriage and the development of diabetic and hypertensive disorders in women. This systematic review aims to collate the existing literature and provide up to date epidemiological evidence on the topic. (2) Methods: We will search CINAHL Plus, Ovid/EMBASE, Ovid/MEDLINE, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using a combination of medical subject headings, keywords, and search terms, for relevant articles related to the association between miscarriage and the risk of diabetic and hypertensive disorders. Cross-sectional, case–control, nested case–control, case–cohort, and cohort studies published from inception to April 2022 will be included in the search strategy. Three reviewers will independently screen studies and the risk of bias will be assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. Where the data permit, a meta-analysis will be conducted. (3) Results: The results of this systematic review will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication. (4) Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review will instigate efforts to manage and prevent reproductive, cardiovascular, and metabolic health consequences associated with miscarriages.