Throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle, natural biometric fluctuations occur. Previous algorithms that powered Oura’s Readiness Score did not take these normal fluctuations into account. As a result, many members found that their Readiness Scores misrepresented their bodies’ signals during the luteal phase.
Today, we’re proud to announce that Readiness at Oura now takes your cycle into account.
“The menstrual cycle has a profound impact on women’s health and overall well-being, which is why we’re dedicated to ensuring our app features accurately reflect the latest scientific understanding of the physiological changes women experience,” says Holly Shelton, Chief Product Officer at Oura. “By grounding our product in rigorous research, we’re empowering women to confidently navigate their unique cycles with the most accurate and personalized information possible.”
| Member Tip: To experience this update, opt into Cycle Insights, which provides detailed data and insights about cycle phases, cycle stats, fertility signals, and more. To opt in, tap the menu icon in the upper-left corner of your Oura App > Select Settings > Women’s Health. There, you can toggle the feature on or off. |
Oura’s Readiness Score Now Considers Your Cycle
Our newly improved algorithm reduces the likelihood that members who’ve opted into Cycle Insights will see disproportionately low Readiness Scores when their biometrics fluctuate due to their cycle.
Now, Oura’s Readiness algorithm will more accurately represent physiological changes throughout the cycle—without misinterpreting certain signs of strain. You’ll see an even more reliable picture of your readiness, so you can feel confident about your scores and insights.
“Our goal in making these changes is not to ignore the natural physiological differences women experience across their cycles,” says Neta Gotlieb, PhD, Women’s Health Senior Product Manager at Oura. “Rather, we aim to ensure your Oura Scores more accurately reflect your health.”
With this update:
- Cycling members will experience an 81% decrease in days with disproportionately low Readiness Scores during the luteal phase.
- For members who experience disproportionately low Readiness Scores, scores will increase by 4–5 points on average, with some cases seeing even greater improvements.
- 35% of cycling members will no longer see a disproportionately negative impact on their Readiness Score during the luteal phase.
Biometric Changes During the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle can be divided into two main phases: follicular, which includes menstruation and ovulation, and luteal. The hormone estrogen rises during the follicular phase, while progesterone rises during luteal.
The varying levels of these hormones impact a woman’s biometrics, including respiratory rate, resting heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and body temperature trends. These changes follow a predictable pattern throughout the month. (Note that this does not happen for women on hormonal birth control.)
Previously, for many female Oura members, these changes in biometrics signaled signs of strain in the body during the luteal phase, which contributed to a disproportionately lower Readiness Score during this time of the cycle.
READ MORE: Using Oura Temperature Trends To Track Your Menstrual Cycle
What’s Next
“We’re constantly developing new cycle-respecting features and experiences throughout the app and refining existing ones,” says Dr. Gotlieb. “This update is a testament to our dedication to women’s health, integrating science and a deep understanding of the menstrual cycle to create an algorithm that honors women’s unique physiology. This is a step towards a truly cycle-aware experience, providing women with the knowledge and insights to manage their cycles with confidence and achieve their health goals. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every female Oura member has a valuable and validating experience.”