Aim: This qualitative systematic review was conducted to describe the lived experience of men in nursing.Design: A systematic review of qualitative studies.Methods: Five databases (Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Embase) were systematically searched. The PRISMA guideline was used for reporting the literature search in different phases, and the Critical Appraisal Skills Program, a qualitative research checklist, was used to evaluate the studies that met the inclusion criteria. Thomas and Harden's thematic analysis approach for qualitative research was used for data synthesis.Results: Six qualitative studies were included. Five analytical themes related to lived experiences of men in nursing emerged: value in nursing, the double‐edged sword of gender, being accepted in the nursing profession, attractions of nursing and coping strategies.