The pros and cons of fertility tracking apps

A quick glance at the home screen of anyone’s phone will tell you just how much we all rely on apps these days. From online banking and work emails to school updates and travel passes, everything is logged online and accessible in just a few clicks.

Fertility tracking apps have grown in popularity in recent years, with top apps like Clue, Flo and Period Tracker receiving hundreds of millions of downloads. So what’s the appeal of these apps and is it right to rely on them? The health experts at YourGP explore the pros and cons.

Fertility data at your fingertips

Fertility tracking apps can be a good way to help you gain a better understanding of your reproductive health by providing a clear overview of your predicted period dates, estimated ovulation dates and potential fertile window.

They work by analysing the body temperature across the month, using this data to predict when ovulation is likely to occur, so the user can see when they would be most likely to get pregnant. This can be useful information for those actively trying for a baby, as well as those hoping to avoid pregnancy.

Why the switch?

Whilst there are a wide range of contraceptive options available, for many women it can be a case of trial and error to find a method that suits them, and it can take many months and even years to find the right one.

Hormonal contraception isn’t right for everyone. For some, options such as the pill can bring on side effects such as mood swings, changes to libido, acne, weight gain and spotting between periods.

And so in recent years, more and more women have been turning to fertility tracking apps. Many users report these apps help them feel more in tune with their body, and they can be useful in terms of helping to spot irregularities, such as regular cycles becoming shorter or longer in length.

No guarantees

Whilst these fertility tracking apps have their obvious advantages, it is important to understand that their effectiveness rates are not 100%.

While some apps claim an effectiveness rate of up to 93%, this is based on perfect use. Stress, illness and medication can interfere with cycles and make predicting ovulation difficult. And if you have a very irregular cycle, these apps will find it difficult to predict fertility with accuracy.

And remember, fertility tracking apps provide zero protection against sexually transmitted infections!

Speak to the health experts

If you would like more tailored advice about your health and fertility, book an appointment with one of our medical professionals. You can do so via our simple online booking system, by emailing reception@your.gp, or by calling us on 0131 556 2525 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.