Where to search for a systematic review

This page suggests suitable databases to search as you plan and conduct your systematic review, as well as tools to help you find search terms and specific publication types.

The RCOG Library provides support with systematic reviews to Fellows, Members and Trainees.

Resources to check for similar systematic reviews already published/in progress

• PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews
• Tripdatabase and Evidence search have filters for systematic reviews
• Cochrane Library: CDSR (including protocols) and DARE
  Search Cochrane Evidence see individual review group websites for registered titles that don’t have a published protocol yet.
• Joanna Briggs Institute
  • Identified review topics 
  • Registered titles 
• UK Database of Uncertainties about the Effects of Treatments (DUETs) 
• search filters in major databases e.g. Medline, Embase Psychlit, Cinahl (for search filters see 'searching for specific study types' below)

Search widely for studies on your topic

The RCOG also provide advice on effective literature searching and information on accessing databases.

Identifying search terms

Enter a simple search, or some known relevant articles to see commonly used keywords

• Pubmed Reminer 
• Yale MeSH analyzer 
• MeSH on demand 
• Go Pubmed 

Searching for specific study types

• InterTASC Information Specialists' Sub-Group Search Filter Resource. This includes many filters to use when searching for RCTs, diagnostic studies etc. 
• Finding clinical trials, research registers and research results. This resource provides a listing of trials and research registers and a quick reference guide to the search basics for each resource. 

Tools for systematic reviews

View the tools, guidance and standards for systematic reviewers page for further information.