5 things period apps don’t tell you about your cycle

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Period apps promise to help you understand your cycle better, predict your next period, and even track ovulation if you’re trying to conceive.

They can feel like a lifeline when you’re managing the ups and downs of your monthly cycle. But as helpful as they are, period apps aren’t perfect.

They rely on algorithms, not your body’s actual signals, and sometimes they miss out on the bigger picture.

You may have been confused about why your app predicted something that didn’t happen or wondered if it really understands your cycle. It’s normal.

Period apps are great tools, but there are some things they don’t always tell you. Here’s what you need to know to truly understand your body and take control of your health.

1. Your cycle isn’t always regular

Period apps assume your cycle is consistent every month, but that’s not always true. Stress, illness, travel, or hormonal changes can shift your cycle, making it longer or shorter than usual. The apps might still predict your period based on past data, even if your body is doing something different.

It’s normal for cycles to vary a little, especially for teenagers, people with certain health conditions, or those nearing menopause. If your app’s predictions are off, it’s not your body’s fault – it’s just how the app works.

2. Ovulation can be unpredictable

Many period apps estimate ovulation based on the average cycle length, but ovulation doesn’t always happen like clockwork. Some people ovulate early, late, or not at all during a cycle, especially if they have conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

This can be confusing if you’re trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy based on the app’s predictions. For a more accurate picture, you might need to track physical signs of ovulation, like basal body temperature or 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 apps collect and store personal data, and not all of them have strong privacy protections. Your cycle data might be shared with third parties, like advertisers, or even used in ways you didn’t agree to.

Before using a period app, check its privacy policy and ensure your data is safe. If you’re uncomfortable, consider tracking your cycle the old-fashioned way – with a calendar or journal.