New Analysis Warns of Substantial Risks in Cycle-Tracking Apps, Citing Health and Privacy Concerns
A new analysis published in the peer-reviewed medical journal The BMJ argues that cycle-tracking apps and other digital femtech tools pose substantial risks to users, potentially doing more harm than good. The analysis, co-authored by Katharine Lee, an assistant professor at Tulane University, highlights that many claims made by these apps, particularly those promoting 'cycle syncing' (aligning lifestyle habits with menstrual phases), lack scientific evidence. Sports science research indicates that generalizations about menstrual cycle phases affecting health or performance are often individual-specific, and diet-related claims are inconclusive. Furthermore, these apps often rely on self-reported data, leading to imprecise estimates of ovulation and fertile windows, and cannot diagnose menstrual disorders. Beyond health concerns, the analysis points to significant privacy risks, including third-party tracking, lack of data deletion options, and potential data sharing, which is particularly dangerous in reg...
