What does your period tracker know about you?

As if we haven’t been let down enough by the health industry, earlier this year, a period tracking app favorite, was accused of sharing intimate details garnered through their customers menstrual cycle tracking to commercial companies, without prior consent. This information included information about their users sex lives, pregnancies and period symptoms. This was not the first accusation against the company, who reached a settlement in 2021 for similar claims - despite denying them.

Period tracking apps have become increasingly popular as they offer a convenient way for individuals to monitor their menstrual cycles. These tools can provide super valuable insights into one's reproductive health and fertility by tracking menstrual cycles, ovulation dates, and potential symptoms. However, while these apps can be incredibly useful, they also gather a significant amount of personal data.

But what exactly might your period tracker know about you, and how is this information used?

Personal Data Collection

Period tracking apps collect a wide range of data. Basic information includes the start and end dates of your menstrual cycle, which helps predict your future periods and fertile windows. However, many apps also encourage users to enter additional details such as mood changes, sexual activity, contraceptive use, physical symptoms like cramps or bloating, and even more intimate details like the consistency of cervical fluid. It’s always worth stopping and thinking whether you are ok with this information being ‘out there’ and potentially compromised in the future.

Health Insights

The data entered into a period tracking app can provide valuable insights into your health. For instance, irregular periods can indicate health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances. Tracking physical symptoms can help you identify patterns and triggers, such as menstrual migraines or severe cramps that might warrant a visit to a healthcare professional. Again, this can be incredibly useful, but remember you are giving this data to a company, rather than your doctor.

Data Usage

While these apps provide useful personal insights, it's crucial to understand how this data is used and shared. Data privacy varies significantly among different apps. Some apps may use your data to show you targeted advertisements. Others may anonymize and aggregate user data for scientific research. In some cases, data may be sold to third parties, which could potentially use the information in ways you didn't intend, such as targeted marketing or insurance risk assessments.

Protecting Your Data

To protect your data, it's recommended to carefully review the privacy policies of any period tracking app before use. Remember that while these apps can provide useful insights, they should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns related to your menstrual cycle or reproductive health.

In conclusion, period trackers can know a lot about you based on the data you provide. From predicting menstrual cycles to identifying potential health issues, these apps can be a valuable tool. However, it's important to be aware of how your data is being used and to take steps to protect your privacy.