Expert Opinion: Qualitative Research in Obstetrics.

Authors

Margaret M Thorsen, Rochelle K Rosen, Melissa A Clark, Cynthia L Battle, Nina K Ayala, Melissa L Russo, Allison E Payne, Efe Cudjoe, Kate M Guthrie, Adam K Lewkowitz

Published in

American journal of obstetrics & gynecology MFM. Pages 102093. Aug 20, 2026. Epub Aug 20, 2026.

Abstract

Qualitative research is well-suited for understanding clinical decision-making, patient communication, patient experiences, patient education, and implementation within perinatal care. Rigorous qualitative work generates hypotheses, optimizes evidence-based practices, and elevates patient voices to improve clinical outcomes. The goal of this expert review is to highlight how qualitative research already contributes to obstetric clinical practice, opportunities for qualitative research to further deepen its impact, and how perinatal providers can conduct qualitative research not just appropriately, but with scientific rigor. This article also offers an overview of various qualitative data collection strategies, including a description of each, when to consider using the approach, and advantages and disadvantages or other considerations. Challenges to practical application are also posed with potential strategies to avoid pitfalls.

PMID:
42624403
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 21 Aug 2026.

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