Women’s sexual and reproductive health has been an area of concern over centuries. More recently, the global burden of disease among women is being attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular, cancers, diabetes, dementia, depression and more. However, a remarkable transformation is taking place with the advent of next-generation menstrual health products. From smart pads to innovative digital tracking solutions, these technological advancements are empowering women to take control of their menstrual health like never before.
The 2022 market size for menstrual health apps worldwide reached a valuation of USD 1.2 billion, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.9% from 2023 to 2030. A significant factor fueling this growth is the increasing awareness of women’s health. Moreover, the market expansion is being accelerated by the growing digital literacy, widespread smartphone adoption, improved internet connectivity, higher disposable incomes, and the entry of new market participants.
So, how are these innovations changing the way we approach and manage menstruation?
Smart Pads: A Paradigm Shift in Menstrual Health
Smart pads are innovative products designed to provide real-time insights into menstrual health, offering convenience and peace of mind to millions of women worldwide. They go beyond traditional sanitary products by providing data on flow intensity, hormonal fluctuations, and even potential health concerns.
One of the pioneers in this space is Flo, a tech company that has developed a menstrual health app linked with a smart pad. Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Mayo Clinic, shares her perspective: “The integration of data from smart pads into apps like Flo enables women to gain valuable insights into their cycles. This helps with accurate predictions of ovulation and fertile days, providing a comprehensive view of their menstrual health.”
The advanced technology incorporated in these smart pads enables women with:
- Moisture sensors and microprocessors
- Allows them to monitor changes in temperature, pH levels, and hormonal fluctuations
- This data is then analyzed and presented in user-friendly formats through mobile apps
- Women can track their menstrual cycles with precision and even anticipate irregularities or potential health issues.
Digital Tracking: Personalized Menstrual Health Insights
Digital tracking solutions have taken menstrual health monitoring to a new level, allowing women to personalize their care and gain a deeper understanding of their bodies. These technologies provide a more holistic view of menstrual health, addressing not only periods but also the emotional and physical aspects of the menstrual cycle.
- For instance, in 2020, the Essar Foundation introduced the Sahaj app, which is accessible on Android devices and focuses on promoting awareness about menstrual hygiene. It offers a holistic solution for women to manage their menstrual health with dignity.
- UNICEF has also introduced the Oky app, designed to educate young girls about menstruation. The app includes a personalized menstrual cycle tracker. Initially launched in Mongolia and Indonesia, Oky is now accessible in Mexico and India, with plans for further expansion into more countries in 2023.
Moreover, it seeks to empower adolescent girls to prioritize their menstrual well-being by providing sanitary products at reduced prices. Various initiatives from government bodies, such as the dissemination of knowledge about women’s health, the implementation of favorable policies, support for startups, the promotion of mobile technology advancements, and the enhancement of network connectivity, are poised to contribute to market growth.
Tamanna Singh, Founder of Menoveda, India’s 1st menopause only brand, emphasizes the pivotal role of digital tracking, especially in the context of not just menstruation, but a step ahead in tracking menopause as well. She states, “Understanding one’s menstrual cycle is paramount for holistic well-being. Digital tracking not only provides valuable insights into menstrual patterns but also serves as a powerful tool for managing complex conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and fertility-related concerns. Importantly, it acts as an early warning system for the onset of menopause, a phase where a woman’s body undergoes profound hormonal shifts and various associated challenges. With digital tracking in place, women gain the ability to recognize these signs early, allowing them to seek timely guidance from gynaecologists for managing menopausal symptoms. This proactive approach is a game-changer, alleviating the struggle that countless women face worldwide during this transformative phase of life.”
Earlier in a news piece, TechThirsty also showcased the best top 5 smartwatches with menstrual tracker for women to help monitor and improve their health and wellness.
Summarising the benefits…
- A multitude of apps and devices, such as Clue, MyFlo, and Fitbit, offer women the opportunity to track various menstrual-related data points.
- These include mood, energy levels, cravings, and exercise patterns, all of which contribute to a comprehensive picture of a woman’s menstrual health.
- One significant benefit of digital tracking is the opportunity to detect potential reproductive and gynecological issues early on.
- The ability to monitor changes in symptoms, moods, and pain levels over time can lead to early detection of conditions like endometriosis, which historically have been challenging to diagnose promptly.
Digital tracking is also fostering open conversations about menstrual health. Farheen Naaz, a menstrual health advocate from New Delhi and the Co-Founder & CEO of We The Change asserts, “These technologies empower women to discuss their menstrual health concerns more openly with healthcare providers. They can present concrete data, facilitating more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans, if the girl or lady is facing any health issues. The only concern here is the digital divide in India and developing nations. Once we bridge it, we can improve women’s health care in this sector.”
The Intersection of Data Privacy and Women’s Health
While these technological advances offer numerous benefits, there are also critical concerns regarding data privacy and security. The wealth of personal information collected through these devices and apps underscores the need for robust safeguards.
Vinay B Shanon, a data privacy expert from Berkeley has highlighted the importance of addressing these concerns: “The data collected by smart pads and menstrual tracking apps can be sensitive and personal. Ensuring the protection of this data is vital. It is essential that companies take robust measures to safeguard the privacy of their users.”
To mitigate these concerns, some companies have already taken steps to enhance data security. They offer options for anonymous data sharing and adhere to stringent privacy policies. Nonetheless, as Vinay cautions, “Consumers should be vigilant about reading and understanding the privacy policies of these apps and devices. It’s crucial to make informed choices about how and where their data is used.”
The Future of Menstrual Health: A Tech-Enabled Journey
The marriage of technology and menstrual health is poised to be an enduring one. As we look ahead, it’s clear that smart pads and digital tracking are only the beginning of a tech-enabled transformation in women’s health.
Dr. Laura Reynolds, a family medicine physician at Stanford Health Care, points out, “We are witnessing an era where women will have greater control over their menstrual health, improved early detection of health issues, and more personalized care. The possibilities are exciting, and we are only beginning to scratch the surface. All one needs to do is generate awareness and bridge the divide.”
Summing it up, these innovations offer unprecedented insights, foster open conversations, and enable early detection of gynecological issues. However, they also highlight the importance of data privacy and security. As we move forward, it is crucial to strike a balance between harnessing the potential of these technologies and safeguarding users’ sensitive information. The future of menstrual health is undeniably tech-enabled, promising more control, awareness, and personalized care for women everywhere.
Main Image Courtesy: Freepik
Inside Image Courtesy: Freepik
