Apple recently announced that the update of iOS 9 will allow its HealthKit app — in a new category called “Reproductive” Health — to track your sex life (frequency and what contraceptive you used) on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Women will be able to monitor their menstrual cycle and record info on basal body temperature, cervical mucus quality and spotting. That’ll make the HealthKit a digital rhythm-method tracker or fertility booster, depending on how you use the info. You’ll also be able to send the info to your doctor or anonymously share it with scientists conducting research studies. Note: The sex tracker doesn’t work like a pedometer; you put info in AFTER the fact (or act).
Reports have doctors saying it’s not very useful in and of itself; and many on social media echoed that sentiment. One Tweet said: “iOS 9 will include an app to help you track how often you have sex. No, thanks, Apple, I don’t need to be reminded! (Sobs gently).”
But we think it’s one more way to empower you. Research shows that a loving, ongoing sex life boosts heart health, eases bladder control problems, reduces stress, increases levels of illness-fighting immunoglobulin A, is associated with generosity and happiness, and makes your RealAge much younger.
Since the HealthKit app also lets you track your weight, physical activity, diet and mood, you can see how changes in those markers seem to correlate with your sexual activity. So we say, tonight tell your honey that you’re doing important health research, and enjoy what you discover!
Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. To live your healthiest, tune into “The Dr. Oz Show” or visit www.sharecare.com.
Comments