Menstrual Apps and Medical Information

The University of Otago, based in Dunedin, Aotearoa New Zealand, is working to understand and improve the use of menstrual tracking applications (often called ‘period apps’). As you may know, these apps not only track periods but may also give personalised medical information about users’ symptoms of potential endometriosis, PCOS, infertility, and/or menopause.  

The University of Otago would like to better understand the challenges and opportunities of how people are using this app information in their healthcare to develop guidelines for this use. To do this, it is essential they seek a range of perspectives, including app users, people experiencing these conditions, health professionals, those interested in apps and health technology, and researchers. This project has received ethics approval from the University of Otago Human Ethics Committee (Reference Number D21/418).   

What are the researchers interested in?

• Advantages and disadvantages of menstrual tracking apps and the health information they provide 
• Things to consider when using/recommending/creating/researching menstrual tracking apps 

What will it involve?

• Reading an information letter on the project and giving your consent to participate in the discussions. 
• Filling out a brief online survey 
• Participating in a 90-minute online focus group to discuss ideas (or discuss ideas directly with the researchers) 

What might I gain from being involved?

• Ability to share your unique ideas and priorities 
• Chance to connect with other participants in the focus group  
• Opportunity to contribute to shaping future directions of this research project, to develop guidelines for use of menstrual tracking apps 

If you are interested in being involved, use this survey link to get started:  
https://otago.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2rf7oMTzq9TV6iq. The survey includes a separate link to provide details if you are keen to participate in a 90-minute focus group.  

You can find more information on our website (https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/ntrw/menstrual-app-medical-information/). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the team at menstrualhealth@otago.ac.nz.