It’s important to keep in mind that many period tracking apps collect and store personal data, and not all offer robust privacy protections. Your cycle information might be shared with third parties, such as advertisers, or used in ways you didn’t agree to. Before using a period app, carefully review its privacy policy to ensure your data is secure. If you feel uncomfortable with the privacy policies, you might consider tracking your cycle the traditional way—with a calendar or journal.
You might have been confused about why your app predicted an outcome that didn’t occur or whether it truly understands your cycle. This is perfectly normal. While period apps are valuable tools, there are aspects they don’t always explain. Here’s what you need to know to better understand your body and take control of your health.
1. Your cycle isn’t always regular
Period apps often assume that your menstrual cycle is consistent each month, but that is not always the case. Factors such as stress, illness, travel, and hormonal changes can cause your cycle to be longer or shorter than usual. Even if your body is experiencing changes, these apps may still predict your period based on past data. It’s common for menstrual cycles to vary slightly, especially for teenagers, individuals with certain health conditions, or those approaching menopause. If the predictions from your app are inaccurate, it’s not a reflection of your body; it’s simply how the app operates.
2. Ovulation can be unpredictable
Many period-tracking apps estimate ovulation based on the average length of your menstrual cycle. However, ovulation does not always occur predictably. Some individuals may ovulate early, late, or even not at all during a cycle, particularly if they have conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This variability can create confusion if you’re trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy based on the app’s predictions. To get a more accurate understanding of your ovulation, it may be helpful to monitor physical signs, such as basal body temperature or changes in cervical mucus.
3. Apps don’t always catch health issues
Apps are great for noticing patterns, but they can’t diagnose problems. If your cycles are very irregular, unusually heavy, or accompanied by severe pain, the app won’t flag it as a potential issue. These could be signs of underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, and only a healthcare professional can provide answers. Don’t rely solely on an app to monitor your health; listen to your body and seek medical advice if something feels off.
4. Your mood and energy fluctuations are complex
Some apps try to predict mood swings or energy levels during your cycle, but they often oversimplify things. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone do affect your emotions, but so do stress, diet, sleep, and other factors. If your app says you should feel happy but you’re feeling low, or vice versa, don’t worry. Your body is unique, and it’s okay to feel differently from what the app predicts.
5. Privacy isn’t always guaranteed
Many period tracking apps collect and store personal data, and not all of them offer robust privacy protections. Your cycle information might be shared with third parties, such as advertisers, or may be used in ways you didn’t agree to. Before using a period app, carefully review its privacy policy to ensure your data is secure. If you feel uncomfortable with the privacy policies, you might consider tracking your cycle the traditional way—with a calendar or journal.
