In this day and age of technology, “fertility tracking” device apps are growing in popularity… but are they the best option?

FAM, also known as the fertility awareness method, is an awareness practice that supports connecting us with our bodies and its subtle signals. Electronic devices have proven to disconnect us from the natural world around us. As we delve into the practice of fertility awareness method, we look to build deeper connections with the world around us, our minds and our bodies. In that respect, paper charting brings us closer to ourselves, while using apps can cause more of a disconnect.

In addition, many fertility tracking apps use algorithms that calculate fertility and predict ovulation based of past cycles, which can be inaccurate for those of you wanting to use FAM for contraception. Many of these apps also have limited descriptions of cervical mucous which can be frustrating for users who do not observe the apps descriptions of cervical mucous. Cervical mucous variations are as different as each individual reading this blog post. Apps are not one size fits all either, some do not allow you to change settings, add notes, change your ovulation day nor coverline. So while fertility tracking apps may sound like a more mobile, easier version to track your fertility, they have limitations and may not be able to give you a full look at your cycle.

*NOTE: There are very few “fertility tracking” apps that are EU or FDA approved for contraception, many of them even have disclaimers stating that their apps are not for contraceptive use. Even the apps that are approved for contraception are proving to be unreliable methods as data is released on their efficacy rates.

I recommend you use paper charts for at least 3 to 6 months when beginning your journey into the fertility awareness method so that you have a sound understanding of charting, how FAM works, which rules to apply to yourself and the variations in charting methods. There are so many beautiful and unique paper charts on the market for you to choose from depending on your individual goals for FAM. You can choose from Celsius or Fahrenheit, simple or in-depth paper charts.

If you have plans to use a device app in the future, a few that work well are Kindara, OvuView and a new and exciting app that I have switched to and currently am in love with, Read Your Body. Again, paper charting has proven to be the best way to accurately track your fertile and infertile days but in the end the choice is ultimately yours!