Calendar method

Have you ever wondered how most apps predict your menstrual cycle? They use a method called the calendar method, which averages out the length of your past cycles to predict when your next period might occur.

While this method can be helpful in predicting your cycle, it's not as accurate as the sympto-thermal method, which takes into account changes in your cervical mucus and basal body temperature.

That's why in Shekan, we offer both methods, with the calendar method being the fallback method with the bare minimum of accuracy that we rely on, when there's no better data available to predict the start of your next period.

How the calendar method works

The calendar method, also known as the rhythm method, involves tracking the length of your menstrual cycle and using that information to predict when you will ovulate and when your next period will occur. This method assumes that you have a regular cycle, which means that you ovulate consistently on the same day of each cycle. However, not all women have regular cycles, and even if you do, there are still external factors that can affect your cycle length, such as stress, illness, and extended travel.

The Calendar method in action with Shekan

The calendar method automatically starts calculating results for you, once you've added the period days necessary to determine the length of one full cycle. From that point on, it will be used for all predictions, unless you fulfill the requirements for the sympto-thermal method.

Upgrade to a more accurate method easily

Unlike the calendar method, which only tracks your period and cycle length, the sympto-thermal method tracks your cervical mucus and basal body temperature, which are two key indicators of ovulation. Cervical mucus changes in consistency throughout your cycle, becoming thinner and more elastic as you approach ovulation. Basal body temperature, which is your body temperature at rest, also changes throughout your cycle, peaking around ovulation.

By tracking your cervical mucus and basal body temperature, you can pinpoint the exact day of ovulation and predict when your next period will occur with greater accuracy. This method can also be used for family planning, as it can help you identify your fertility window and avoid / plan for pregnancy accordingly.

While the calendar method may be the default setting on many period tracking apps (including ours), it is important to explore the other options that are available to you, if you are willing to go go the extra mile for more accuracy.

By using the sympto-thermal method, which is also offered by Shekan, you can start tracking your cycle more accurately, get a better understanding of your own body and make informed decisions about your health and family planning.