Exploring Period Tracking Applications: A Geographical and Cultural Review (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND Studies show an increasing global interest in period-tracking applications developed to aid women in monitoring and regulating their menstrual cycles. While these apps contribute to awareness and positive perspectives on reproductive health, limited attention has been given to exploring their geographical and cultural implications in existing studies. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aimed to examine existing literature on period tracking applications, focusing on their geographical and cultural dimensions. The study attempted to understand how geographical and cultural factors impact the applications' use and effectiveness. METHODS The review was conducted through a comprehensive search spanning scholarly databases for peer-reviewed journals and gray literature from 2013 to 2023. The findings were categorized by geographical location, revealing significant trends in cultural factors shaping the usage of period-tracking applications. RESULTS Of the 21 literatures reviewed, nine studies focused on understanding the usage of period-tracking applications in specific countries. Six studies utilized countries as study sites for exploring app functionalities and experience. Another six studies and two scoping reviews assessed functional implications and reviewed findings across different countries. The user demographic profile revealed that 12 out of 24 pieces of literature were primarily considered to be between 18 and 50 years old, with some including race, ethnicity, education, and digital literacy. A total of 44 period-monitoring applications were identified across various studies. However, 8.9% did not specify the application used and referred to it. CONCLUSIONS This scoping review specifically examined the geographical and cultural dimensions of using period-tracking applications. It now opens avenues for future investigations into factors influencing diverse patterns, preferences, and practices in digital menstrual health.