Abstract
BACKGROUND: The widespread use of mobile devices has markedly increased global exposure to nonionizing electromagnetic waves (EMWs). Emerging evidence indicates potential biological effects of EMW exposure in susceptible populations, particularly pregnant women; however, findings remain inconsistent. OBJECTIVE: This protocol delineates a systematic review aimed at synthesizing and critically evaluating the teratogenic and pregnancy-related effects of nonionizing EMW exposure in pregnant women. METHODS: This protocol adheres to the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols) 2020 guidelines and has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42023475665). A comprehensive literature search will be conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar, with supplementary searches of the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov. Eligible studies will include pregnant women exposed to nonionizing EMWs from mobile phones and related wireless devices. The primary outcomes will be pregnancy complications and fetal anomalies, with secondary outcomes assessed as previously reported. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment will be performed independently by 2 reviewers. Where appropriate, a random-effects meta-analysis will be conducted. RESULTS: Funding for this study was secured in March 2026. The literature search and study screening are planned for April to July 2026, with data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and synthesis expected to be completed by September 2026. The final results are anticipated to be submitted for publication in late 2026. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review is expected to provide consolidated evidence on the potential teratogenic and pregnancy-related effects of nonionizing EMW exposure, thereby supporting future research and evidence-based recommendations for public health.