The Hidden Risks of Fertility Apps: Protecting Your Data and Your Privacy

But what happens when the personal data you entrust to these apps ends up being sold or misused?

The Dark Side of Data: Fertility Apps and Privacy Concerns

In recent years, several high-profile fertility apps have come under fire for their data privacy practices. In 2019, the Wall Street Journal reported that Flo, a popular period and fertility tracking app, was sharing sensitive user data with Facebook. In 2020, another fertility app, Premom, was found to be sharing personal data with three Chinese advertising companies.

These breaches are not just a violation of privacy, they can also have real-world consequences.

As cybersecurity expert Bruce Schneier famously said, "Data is the pollution problem of the information age, and protecting privacy is the environmental challenge."

Why Your Data Matters: The Risks of Data Sharing

So why should you care if your fertility app is sharing your data? Here are a few reasons:

1. Personal Privacy: Your menstrual cycle, sexual activity, and fertility goals are deeply personal information. You have the right to keep this information private if you choose.
2. Discrimination: In the wrong hands, health data can be used to discriminate. For example, an insurance company might use information about your fertility to deny coverage or increase rates.
3. Security Risks: Once your data is out there, it's vulnerable to hacking and misuse. In 2018, a data breach at MyFitnessPal exposed the personal information of 150 million users.

Protecting Your Data: What You Can Do

1. Read the Privacy Policy: Before downloading an app, take the time to read its privacy policy. Look for information about what data the app collects, how it's used, and who it's shared with.
2. Limit Data Sharing: Many apps allow you to opt out of data sharing. Check the app's settings to see if this is an option.
3. Use Anonymous Data: If possible, use anonymous data when setting up your account. Avoid using your real name, email address, or other identifying information.
4. Choose Reputable Apps: Not all fertility apps are created equal. Choose apps from reputable companies with strong privacy policies.

Trustworthy Fertility Apps: A Shortlist

If you're looking for a fertility app that respects your privacy, here are a few to consider:

1. Clue: This app has a strong privacy policy and does not sell user data.
2. Natural Cycles: The first FDA-approved contraceptive app, Natural Cycles takes data privacy seriously.
3. Kindara: While Kindara does collect user data, it has a clear policy against selling this data to third parties.
4. Conceivable with Kirsten AI: Unlike many fertility apps, Conceivable doesn't just track your cycle - it uses AI to analyze your data and provide personalized fertility recommendations. Plus, it has a strong commitment to data privacy.

The Bottom Line: Your Data, Your Choice

At the end of the day, the decision to use a fertility app - and which one to use - is a personal one. It's important to weigh the convenience and benefits of these apps against the potential risks to your data privacy.

Remember, your data is valuable, and you have the right to control how it's used. As Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, said, "Privacy means people know what they're signing up for, in plain English, and repeatedly."

Ready to take control of your fertility without sacrificing your privacy? Check out Conceivable with Kirsten AI. With our strong commitment to data privacy and innovative AI technology, we're here to help you achieve your fertility goals - on your terms.