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With the alarming leak of a Supreme Court draft suggesting the potential overturn of Roe v. Wade — a change that would allow states to ban abortion — numerous questions regarding safe and confidential access to abortion, reproductive rights, and equitable healthcare are emerging.
One pressing question relates to period tracking applications, which are often marketed as user-friendly mobile tools for monitoring menstrual cycles, ovulation, and contraception reminders. Since the introduction of Apple HealthKit in 2014, the popularity of these apps has surged, with Bloomberg reporting around 100 million users worldwide.
However, as these applications have gained traction, discussions about their privacy policies and the potential for data misuse have intensified. Concerns are rising about whether the companies behind these apps might legally share your personal information with third parties. In a scenario where Roe v. Wade is overturned and you find yourself seeking an illegal abortion, could your health data be used against you by law enforcement?
The Risks of Reproductive Surveillance
In 2014, researcher Jamie Thompson highlighted the underlying motives of these apps, stating that they often serve to monitor women’s reproductive health closely. This surveillance can compel women to be increasingly vigilant about their bodies for the sake of potential pregnancies.
App developers not only gather reproductive health data but may also share it with advertisers, researchers, and even law enforcement. Reports suggest that while companies can resist requests for user data, they comply about 80% of the time when faced with subpoenas. Deborah Lee, founder of Patient Privacy Rights, stressed that there are no laws protecting this sensitive information from being sold or disclosed.
The Privacy Law Dilemma
Additionally, data that users voluntarily input into these applications may not be safeguarded by HIPAA, the federal law designed to protect personal health information. Many health-related apps, including period trackers, are not required to undergo comprehensive security testing before being made available for download. Thus, even if you’re not openly discussing abortion plans, your location data and app interactions could be subject to surveillance and criminalization.
As abortion rights face potential restrictions in numerous states, it’s plausible that technology companies might assist in tracking and penalizing individuals who seek or facilitate abortions. This means that your menstrual tracking data could potentially be handed over to authorities to substantiate claims of pregnancy-related criminalization.
A Personal Decision
While it remains uncertain how states will regulate abortion should Roe be overturned, with at least 22 states poised to impose varying degrees of restrictions, concerns about privacy and safety are valid. Searching for clinic information or attempting to travel for an abortion could become illegal in some jurisdictions.
Before making any decisions, it’s wise to read the fine print of the apps you use, particularly those related to health tracking. Reviewing the terms of service and privacy policies can shed light on how your data is utilized. You can also disable features like location tracking and browsing history. Some individuals recommend using burner phones for sensitive searches and deleting period tracking apps altogether.
If you decide to move away from these applications, tracking your cycle manually is still an option. Utilize a calendar to mark your period’s start and end dates, and note any symptoms you experience daily. This approach will help you understand your cycle better and prepare for upcoming periods, including managing your appetite and energy levels.
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In summary, while period tracking apps offer convenience, users should be aware of potential privacy risks, especially in the current political climate regarding reproductive rights. Understanding how your data may be shared and considering alternatives to these apps can help safeguard your personal information.