You know that moment in the doctor's office when you're inevitably asked for the date of your last period? If you're always stumped, it's past time to start tracking your cycle [1]. Fortunately, there are a number of apps on the market that can help you do just that. We've rounded up five of the best, each of which offers a little something different. Whether you're trying to conceive (or the opposite), or you just want to keep a better record of your symptoms [2] throughout the month — equally important when your annual exam rolls around [3] — you're bound to find one you'll like in this list.
Period Tracker
Cost: Free for Lite; $10 for Deluxe
If you just need the basics, Period Tracker [4] is a great place to start. I've personally used this app since my sophomore year of high school. It allows you to log any symptoms you're experiencing [5] (think: spotting, headaches, bloating), as well as if you've had sex (and if protection was used). If you want to chat with other users, try upgrading to Deluxe.
Flo
Cost: Free for 30 days; subscriptions start at $10 for one month
When you open the app, Flo [6]'s simple and bright design will immediately tell you where you are in your cycle, but that's just the beginning of what it has to offer. You'll also find information about ovulation and fertility, how your cycle might affect your mood, and any patterns in your symptoms [7]. You can even import data from your Fitbit or Health app.
If privacy is a concern, you'll love that you can use your fingerprint or face to unlock Flo. And while the app allows you to connect with others who may be experiencing similar issues, the chat rooms are anonymous, with zero tolerance for racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or any other hate speech.
Glow
Cost: Free; Premium subscriptions start at $24 for three months
Glow [8] offers everything you'd expect from a period tracking app, along with some truly unique features. The app tailors insights and resources based on your status — avoiding pregnancy, trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or healing from a loss — and even allows you to add a partner who can then track your cycle, too. If you need some support, you can also chat with others who share the same interests or are in the same stage of their lives.
Eve by Glow
Cost: Free; Premium subscriptions start at $24 for three months
Think of Eve [9] as Glow's savvy-yet-cool younger sister. You'll gain the same level of insight into your cycle, with a stronger focus on maintaining a healthy sex life, whether or not you're trying to conceive (think: daily sex quizzes and information on birth control).
Clue
Cost: Free; Plus subscriptions start at $10 for one month
Clue [10] has been a leader in this space for a while, and with its science-backed predictions, as well as its user-friendly interface — you'll find only gender-neutral language in the app, and the founders also promise not to sell your data — that's unlikely to change anytime soon. Upgrade to Clue Plus to gain access to discounts and giveaways and receive a detailed monthly report on your cycle.
