The Intersection of Menstrual Health and Digital Privacy

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By Adetayo Adetokun

In today’s digital age, managing menstrual health has become more convenient with the advent of FemTech—technology designed to address women’s health issues. From tracking cycles to predicting ovulation, these applications offer personalized insights. However, as we commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day annually on May 28, it is crucial to examine the privacy implications of sharing intimate health data with these platforms.

The FemTech industry has witnessed significant growth, with the global market valued at approximately $39.29 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $97.25 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 16.37%. Applications like Flo, Clue, and Bellabeat have become household names, offering features ranging from period tracking to ovulation prediction. Flo, for instance, boasts over 70 million monthly active users worldwide.

These apps provide detailed information on the menstrual cycle and its impact, such as mood and energy levels, and allow users to enter personal data to receive predictions about their cycle stages. Users like to strategically schedule important meetings and work events based on their cycle phase to optimize performance.

Despite the benefits, concerns about data privacy have emerged. In 2021, Flo settled a complaint with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission over allegations that it shared users’ sensitive health data with third parties without proper consent. In response to growing privacy concerns, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court decided to overturn Roe v. Wade, Flo introduced an “anonymous mode” to allow users to log and analyze their symptoms without linking data to their identity.

However, studies have highlighted problematic data policies in many FemTech apps, raising the risk of data access by law enforcement in regions where abortion is illegal. Such concerns have led to decreased usage and shifts towards privacy-first products, impacting major apps like Flo and Clue.

As FemTech continues to expand, balancing innovation with user privacy becomes paramount. Developers must prioritize transparent data practices, and users should be informed about how their data is used and protected. By fostering trust and ensuring privacy, FemTech can continue to empower individuals in managing their menstrual health without compromising their personal information.

Solutions and Recommendations

For App Developers:

• Implement Transparent Privacy Policies: Communicate clearly how user data is collected, used, and shared.
  
  

• Offer Anonymous Usage Options: Allow users to access app features without providing personally identifiable information.
  
  

• Enhance Data Security Measures: Regularly update security protocols to protect against unauthorized access.
  
  

For Policymakers:

• Regulate Health Data Usage: Establish clear guidelines on how health data can be used, especially concerning reproductive health information.
  
  

• Promote Data Privacy Education: Fund initiatives that educate the public about digital privacy rights and best practices.
  
  

For Users:

• Review App Permissions: Regularly check and adjust app permissions to limit unnecessary data access.
  
  

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of privacy policies and updates from the apps you use.
  
  

• Advocate for Privacy Rights: Support organizations and movements that push for stronger digital privacy protections.
  
  

At Shades of Us, our commitment to menstrual health extends beyond providing sanitary products; we aim to empower women and girls through education, advocacy, and the dismantling of stigmas associated with menstruation. We recognize that digital tools play an increasingly significant role in how individuals manage their menstrual health. However, without proper safeguards, these tools can inadvertently compromise the very individuals they intend to support.

By advocating for stronger data protection measures in FemTech and educating our communities about digital privacy, we strive to create an environment where women and girls can manage their menstrual health confidently and securely. This aligns with our broader mission to promote gender equity, health, and human rights.