An analysis published Wednesday in the peer-reviewed medical journal The BMJ argues that the risks associated with apps and other digital cycle-tracking tools on the femtech market do more harm than good for the estimated 50 million people worldwide using them to track menstrual cycles, associated mental and physical symptoms, fertility and pregnancy, including flawed health assumptions and compromised data privacy.
Medical Limits and Health Risks of Digital Trackers
Sports science research cited in the BMJ analysis shows that there is no way to generalize about how different menstrual cycle phases affect health, performance, or injury risk because these correlations are highly individual. The analysis notes that research regarding diet reducing cycle symptoms or improving performance remains generally speculative or inconclusive. Digital cycle trackers cannot diagnose menstrual disorders or uncover the causes of painful periods.
Users relying on these applications risk downplaying health concerns as simply effects of their cycle or abandoning established sleep, diet, and exercise guidelines in the name of “cycle syncing.” According to Lee, individuals concerned about fertility should track signs of ovulation like basal body temperature, cervical mucus consistency, and luteinizing hormone levels rather than relying on basic apps.
Privacy Threats and Targeted Advertising
Privacy concerns extend beyond routine data collection. Certain applications permit third-party tracking, don’t publish transparency reports, don’t allow straightforward data deletion, and don’t use local data storage, creating vulnerabilities for data breaches or data sales. These security gaps pose severe dangers in regions where abortion is criminalized or where sex-based and gender-based discrimination prevails. Lee emphasized that users must understand the potential for reproductive coercion, noting that some apps share period data with companies for targeted advertising.
Common Questions About Menstrual Tracking
Are period tracking apps capable of diagnosing menstrual disorders?
Lee recommends working with trusted health professionals for medical concerns.
What specific signs should be tracked for fertility monitoring?
Tracking fertility requires monitoring signs of ovulation, including luteinizing hormone levels, basal body temperature, and cervical mucus consistency, rather than relying on bleeding averages.
How can users protect their cycle data from third parties?
Users can protect their privacy by reviewing app privacy policies through research from organizations like the Mozilla Foundation or Privacy International, utilizing digital calendars, or opting for traditional pen-and-paper tracking.