The Truth About Period Tracking Apps: Benefits, Limitations, and Reliability

Many people use period-tracking apps for menstrual and fertility monitoring, yet their accuracy is rarely reliable. Researchers reveal that only a small fraction of women have cycles conforming to the 'textbook' 28 days. Users should be cautious in interpreting app predictions, especially for contraception and fertility planning.

A burgeoning industry known as 'femtech' has enabled over 50 million people to record their menstrual cycles on personal devices. However, the reliability and accuracy of these period-tracking apps are under scrutiny.

Many apps use self-reported data and algorithms to predict menstrual, ovulation, and fertile windows, but their accuracy is questionable. Notably, only 13-16% of women have a 28-day cycle, and only 13% ovulate on day 14, as 'textbook' cycles suggest.

Researchers warn that predictions for contraception and fertility can be unreliable, with a fail rate similar to that of typical condom use. Users are advised to seek medical advice for cycle irregularities instead of solely depending on these apps.

(With inputs from agencies.)