Here’s some good news for you: Apple is now adding menstrual-cycle tracking to your Apple Watch or iPhone via the Apple Health app. Named Cycle Tracking, the feature lets you keep a log of your period, keep tabs on fertility and get a heads up on when your next cycle begins. Tracking your cycle is helpful for the reasons listed before this, but if you are trying to get pregnant, you are also can see when you’re ovulating. This benefits many couples that are attempting to start families.
According to CNet.com, “tracking your period helps you be prepared for its arrival, so you’re not caught off guard and scrambling to find a tampon. But, more importantly, it can keep tabs on your health. Being able to record how heavy your flow is, how painful your cramps are and the presence of any other symptoms. Symptoms like mood swings, breast tenderness, and acne. It can help you and your doctor determine if you have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.”
How To Use The Cycle Tracking Feature
When using the Apple Health App on your phone, find the Cycle Tracking feature and tap it. You will need to provide the date of the first day of your last period. Also, you will need to provide the average length of your period and the average length of your full cycle. There are options to give fertility predictions and/or log fertility data, which you can also opt-out of.
According to CNet.com, “once you’re set-up, you’ll see the current date at the top of the app. You can tap on any date to indicate that you had your period that day. Beneath the calendar, you can record symptoms and record how heavy your flow is. As you log information about your cycle, the app will predict when your next period will begin. It will send you notifications on your iPhone and/or Apple Watch. You can also set up notifications to let you know when you’re ovulating and to remind you to log your symptoms during your period.”
Apple does, however, clarify that this app and information can’t and shouldn’t be used as a method of birth control.
While you’re here, check out our story on how often you should do Pilates to see results.
