Visualisation Approaches in Qualitative Metasynthesis for Health Research
Aviraj K.S., Sumana Mukhopadhyay, Divya Darshani Sharma, Anmol Goyal, Manvi Sagar, Jobinse Jose · Cureus · 2026
Qualitative meta-synthesis, the interpretive counterpart of systematic review, integrates findings from multiple qualitative studies to generate deeper insights into complex health phenomena. Visualisation techniques enhance the interpretability of such syntheses by transforming textual data into clear, relational, and actionable forms. This review showcases advanced data visualisation tools to explore sociocultural influences on pregnancy and childbirth practices across global contexts. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and a registered PROSPERO protocol, qualitative studies examining cultural beliefs and maternity practices were systematically reviewed and thematically synthesised. The synthesised data were visualised using Sankey, Chord and Network diagrams, as well as geo-spatial sentiment maps, to illustrate thematic transitions, interconnections, and regional variations in sociocultural practices and perceptions. The Sankey diagram depicted the continuity and transition of cultural practices from pregnancy to childbirth. In contrast, the Chord diagram revealed interwoven relationships among themes such as rituals, dietary customs, and support systems across ethnic groups. Network analysis identified central, recurring sociocultural themes like gender roles, emotional support, and traditional beliefs. Geo-spatial sentiment mapping highlighted regional differences, with strong positive sentiments in parts of Africa, moderate neutrality in Asia and Europe, and negative perceptions in South America. Collectively, these visualisations uncovered cultural patterns and regional diversity, emphasising the importance of culturally sensitive, context-specific approaches to maternal health. Visual analytics enhances qualitative meta-synthesis by revealing hidden cultural patterns, improving interpretation, and guiding culturally sensitive health interventions.