Qualitative research methods are essential for understanding human reproduction's psychosocial aspects. This commentary discusses when and how to use qualitative research, emphasizing its value in exploring lived experiences, meanings, and perspectives. It highlights the importance of distinguishing qualitative research from quantitative methods, which often focus on measurable data. Qualitative methods are appropriate for answering questions about experience, meaning, and perspective, often from the participant's viewpoint. Examples include small-group discussions, semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and analysis of texts and documents. These methods can reveal insights into complex issues such as donor-conceived individuals' experiences, family dynamics, and the ethical implications of gamete donation. Qualitative research is often misunderstood and undervalued, with some reviewers applying quantitative criteria to qualitative studies. This commentary provides guidance on how to assess the scientific rigor of qualitative studies, emphasizing trustworthiness, credibility, applicability, and consistency. These criteria ensure that qualitative research is evaluated based on its unique strengths, such as capturing real-life experiences and cultural contexts. While qualitative methods can be combined with quantitative methods, careful attention must be given to ensure compatibility and appropriate use. The commentary also addresses the challenges of small sample sizes and the concept of saturation in qualitative research. The authors argue that qualitative research is not merely anecdotal but involves complex theoretical frameworks and rigorous analysis. It is crucial for understanding the human experience in reproduction, including the meanings individuals attach to medical interventions and the social implications of assisted conception. The commentary concludes that qualitative research is a vital component of scientific inquiry, providing insights that cannot be captured through quantitative methods alone. It is essential to recognize and value qualitative research to ensure a comprehensive understanding of human reproduction and related issues.Qualitative research methods are essential for understanding human reproduction's psychosocial aspects. This commentary discusses when and how to use qualitative research, emphasizing its value in exploring lived experiences, meanings, and perspectives. It highlights the importance of distinguishing qualitative research from quantitative methods, which often focus on measurable data. Qualitative methods are appropriate for answering questions about experience, meaning, and perspective, often from the participant's viewpoint. Examples include small-group discussions, semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and analysis of texts and documents. These methods can reveal insights into complex issues such as donor-conceived individuals' experiences, family dynamics, and the ethical implications of gamete donation. Qualitative research is often misunderstood and undervalued, with some reviewers applying quantitative criteria to qualitative studies. This commentary provides guidance on how to assess the scientific rigor of qualitative studies, emphasizing trustworthiness, credibility, applicability, and consistency. These criteria ensure that qualitative research is evaluated based on its unique strengths, such as capturing real-life experiences and cultural contexts. While qualitative methods can be combined with quantitative methods, careful attention must be given to ensure compatibility and appropriate use. The commentary also addresses the challenges of small sample sizes and the concept of saturation in qualitative research. The authors argue that qualitative research is not merely anecdotal but involves complex theoretical frameworks and rigorous analysis. It is crucial for understanding the human experience in reproduction, including the meanings individuals attach to medical interventions and the social implications of assisted conception. The commentary concludes that qualitative research is a vital component of scientific inquiry, providing insights that cannot be captured through quantitative methods alone. It is essential to recognize and value qualitative research to ensure a comprehensive understanding of human reproduction and related issues.