Background: Women 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. Objectives: The aim of this study was to perform a meta-synthesis of findings of women's experiences of recovery after MI. Methods: A meta-synthesis with seven qualitative studies, including a total of 70 women, was performed. Results: Recovery 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. Conclusion: Women 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.