Until stronger legal protections are in place, individuals concerned about digital privacy—especially around reproductive health—can take practical steps to reduce risk.

Be Cautious with What You Share Online

Try to avoid posting about your reproductive health on public platforms, forums, or even unsecured social media messages. Even seemingly harmless posts can be tracked, scraped, or misused, especially if connected with other data.

Limit App Permissions

When installing any health or cycle-tracking app, take a moment to review what permissions it’s requesting. Ask yourself: Does it really need access to your location, contacts, or microphone? Disable any unnecessary access in your phone’s settings.

Turn Off Cloud Backups for Sensitive Apps

If you’re using an app that stores data locally (such as Drip or Euki), make sure your device isn’t automatically backing up that data to the cloud. Backups could still make private data accessible to third parties.

Encrypt Your Device

Use a strong password or biometric lock (like fingerprint or facial recognition) to protect your phone. Also, make sure your phone’s storage is encrypted—most modern devices have this turned on by default, but it’s worth checking.

Educate Others

Many people aren’t aware of the risks these apps may pose. Talk to your friends, family, or community about digital privacy, especially in states with strict abortion laws. Spreading awareness can help others make informed choices.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Advocacy

While individual action is crucial, it’s also important to push for systemic change. Supporting organizations that fight for digital privacy, bodily autonomy, and reproductive rights can help create lasting impact.

You can:

  • Support advocacy groups like Fight for the Future, EFF (Electronic Frontier Foundation), or Planned Parenthood
  • Contact your representatives and ask them to support privacy-focused legislation
  • Raise awareness about the importance of data protection laws in safeguarding personal health data

Final Thoughts

Period-tracking apps can be incredibly useful—but in today’s post-Roe v. Wade legal landscape, they come with real privacy risks. Data stored in these apps can be accessed, shared, or sold in ways that may put individuals at legal or personal risk, particularly in states where reproductive care is restricted.

Deleting your period-tracking app, switching to a safer alternative, and taking steps to secure your digital footprint are proactive ways to protect your privacy. Most importantly, open conversations with trusted healthcare providers remain the safest route for navigating reproductive health.

If you’re concerned about your privacy or safety, reach out to a digital rights group or healthcare provider. You’re not alone—and there are resources to help.