The complex phenomenon of violence against women is determined by gender relations that, from a historical and social construction of female and male, and the biological differences which gives unequal power between men and women. This results in increased vulnerability of women, exposing them to physical, psychological and sexual violence. The history of violence in the early life of trapped women can contribute to their involvement in crimes and misdemeanors.

To review the production of national and international scientific knowledge about the effects of violence on women's health before her incarceration.

Meet the publications about the consequences of violence on women's health before she was imprisoned.

Integrative review of scientific literature to answer: “What are the implications of violence on women's health before their incarceration?” Studies of the last 5 years delimited in the databases LILACS, PUBMED and PsycInfo. Selected primary studies with women incarcerated people over 18 years, in Portuguese, English and Spanish language. Excluded studies that addressed violence inside the prison and wife as perp. An instrument for identification of studies and their categorization was used.

Sixteen selected articles that have addressed the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, drug abuse, sexual abuse and re-victimization (where the abuser was usually a family member or intimate partner).

There is a lack of a specific instrument to investigate the occurrence of violence against women before being arrested. Scientific and policy initiatives are required to develop specific intervention strategies for women incarcerated victimized before prison.

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.