The benefits and harms of using a period tracking app: A qualitative study of women's experiences.

Abstract

To explore women's thoughts about and experiences with using period tracking apps, including their perceived benefits and harms. Qualitative phenomenological approach using semi-structured interviews with 32 women across Australia between the ages of 18-55 years who had used a period tracking app within the past year. Women were recruited via social media advertising. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using Framework analysis. Findings were categorised into three overarching themes: 1) benefits of using a period tracking app, 2) harms of using a period tracking app, and 3) other described app limitations. While some women found value in having an accurate record of their cycle and experienced an increased sense of control and understanding of bodily cues, others received inaccurate predictions, alarmist notifications that they may have a disorder or were left with unmet expectations, highlighting app inaccuracies and the risk of overmedicalisation. Concerns were also raised around unethical advertising, paywalled information and data privacy. This study provides nuanced insights to the benefits and harms of period tracking apps for women in the Australian community. In addition to the benefits of having access and control over one's health information, and concerns about privacy, this study contributes novel findings about the risk of overmedicalising women's cycles through alarmist and sometimes incorrect app notifications, and how this impacts women's perceptions of and feelings about their bodies. Findings may be used by policy professionals to advocate for increased transparency, safety, and regulation of period tracking apps, as well as for health professionals to recognise the role period tracking apps may have in supporting women's needs but also the risks.