Value of qualitative research in polycystic ovary syndrome

Objective This article aims to introduce the benefits of qualitative research and to discuss how such research can be applied to the study of polycystic ovary syndrome （PCOS）. Data sources Relevant articles were published in English as of May 2013 from Pubmed. Terms ＂polycystic ovary syndrome/PCOS, qualitative research and methodology＂ were used for searching. Study selection Articles studying PCOS with qualitative methods were reviewed. Articles associated with the use of qualitative research in clinical research were cited. Results Six qualitative studies related to PCOS were found in the literature search. These studies addressed different aspects in PCOS women including their womanhood, lived experience, information need, and experience of treatment with acupuncture. Five of these six studies used phenomenology as guiding theory. Conclusion Quantitative research has been the dominant approach in the field so far, qualitative research is relevant to the advancement of PCOS.