Interview Insights: Discussion with Apple Regarding its Cycle Tracking Capabilities and Their Life-Changing Implications
Menstrual cycle tracking, initially an add-on feature on the Fitbit Versa in 2018, has become a standard aspect of smartwatches, as developers recognize its significance in women's health. With approximately 1.8 to 2 million menstruating users worldwide, cycle length and regularity are indicators of overall health.
Apple, creator of one of the most popular smartwatches on the market, has recently introduced innovations to its Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra. These models come equipped with a skin temperature sensor, which provides more accurate ovulation data for users.
Moreover, Apple has added a new pregnancy feature, offering valuable insights to wearers until the 12th week postpartum. Apple's commitment to data privacy, especially in a post-Roe era, is commendable, ensuring user information remains confidential.
Dr. Asha Chesnutt, a medical professional working with Apple, explains the integral role of cycle tracking in the health app. Temperature and heart rate data, collected by the smartwatch, improve cycle predictions.
The potential of cycle tracking to transform lives has been evident as it enables users to notice any changes and seek help faster. Users can review their cycle history at the click of a button, and export or send it to their doctor if necessary.
Regular menstrual cycles can be indicative of good health, but irregular cycles could potentially signal health issues such as infertility, coronary heart disease, or type 2 diabetes. The data collected by the Apple Watch can help users spot such patterns and encourage proactive health management.
In the United Kingdom, Dr. Raj Arora reports that the accumulated data is helping women receive life-changing diagnoses more quickly. Patients tracking their symptoms on the Apple Watch are providing valuable insights to doctors, expediting the diagnosis process.
Apple is also conducting a long-term research study into menstrual health and its relationship with other health conditions. This study, which is the first of its scale, aims to advance the understanding of various gynecologic health conditions and inform the development of new products.
As for Apple's future plans, Dr. Asha hopes for a shift in the narrative from passive health management to active, proactive participation. The ultimate goal is to empower users to take control of their health by tracking their vitals and maintaining good health for longer.
The smartwatch, once seen merely as a device for tracking steps or answering calls, is transforming into a powerful health tool that can provide users with deeper insights into their overall health. The data stored in the Health app on an iPhone can potentially help users stay healthy for longer, receive diagnoses faster, and become more active participants in managing their health.
- As Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra incorporate skin temperature sensors for more accurate ovulation tracking, it opens up opportunities in the field of women's health and wellness, extending beyond fitness-and-exercise.
- The ever-growing database collected from users' menstrual cycle tracking on Apple Watches is revolutionizing health-and-wellness, as it aids in earlier and more accurate diagnoses, particularly in the United Kingdom.
- With advancements in technology, wearables like Apple Watch have moved beyond just tracking steps and calls, transforming into devices that can empower women to make informed decisions about their womens-health through science and technology.
