Women’s experiences of recovery after myocardial infarction: A meta-synthesis

BackgroundWomen report lower well-being, compared with men, during recovery after myocardial infarction (MI). To support women in their recovery it is important to understand their experiences from their own perspective. However, a single study using a qualitative method does not have the potential to contribute to evidence-based nursing practice, and it is therefore important to synthesize findings from several qualitative studies.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to perform a meta-synthesis of findings of women’s experiences of recovery after MI.MethodsA meta-synthesis with seven qualitative studies, including a total of 70 women, was performed.ResultsRecovery was characterized by subordination and superordination. The women strived to preserve their self, and at the same time they were strongly oriented toward other people. Four concepts emerged: protecting, adjusting, downgrading, and succumbing.ConclusionWomen oscillate between subordination and superordination. Protecting the matriarchy and being a victim of the patriarchy shed light on this ambivalence in the same way as adjusting to the situation and succumbing to the disease do.