Spending time on the wellness side of TikTok can lead you to videos of people sharing their experiences tracking their menstrual cycles using devices like the Oura Ring and apps like Natural Cycles. These trends reflect a growing interest in understanding the body’s natural rhythms and using technology to gain insight into health. However, it’s important to be cautious as some social media content may be sponsored or inaccurate.
Hormonal contraception is commonly used for reasons beyond birth control, such as managing conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. While some misinformation exists online, research shows that hormonal birth control does not affect future fertility and may even help in certain cases. However, individuals interested in tracking their fertility accurately may face challenges, especially if they have irregular cycles or have recently come off hormonal birth control.
Wearables like the Oura Ring are becoming popular tools for tracking menstrual cycles, providing temperature readings throughout the night. Natural Cycles, an FDA-cleared app, uses data from devices like the Oura Ring to estimate fertile and infertile windows. It’s crucial to follow guidelines and exclude any factors that may affect temperature data for accurate tracking.
The menstrual cycle is considered a vital sign that can provide insight into overall health. Big tech companies are investing in research to better understand menstrual cycles and their impact on health. While hormonal birth control can be beneficial for managing certain conditions, it’s important for individuals to explore their bodies and make informed decisions about their health.