ASSESSING THE FEASIBILITY OF OVULATION TRACKING USING WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY: QUALITATIVE PATIENT INSIGHTS FROM A PILOT STUDY.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the feasibility and patient perspectives in using non-invasive wearable technology throughout cycle monitoring as an alternative to traditional, invasive monitoring methods. Design: A longitudinal observational pilot study was conducted in patients undergoing intrauterine insemination or intercourse cycles using continuous physiological monitoring with wearable textile-integrated sensors. Materials and Methods: This study was a partnership between Myant Corporation and a single university-affilitated fertility clinic in Ontario, Canada. Participants wore a wearable textile-based system (bra or chest band) which continuously collected electrocardiogram, and basal body temperature data. Eligibility criteria included regular cycles and healthy participants. Patients were recruited at their first treatment visit. Qualitative insights were obtained through patient interviews. Results: In total, 31 participants were recruited. Body temperature remained lower during the follicular phase, reached a minimum prior to ovulation, and increased by approximately 0.28°C to 0.6°C following ovulation, remaining elevated throughout the luteal phase before declining prior to menstruation. Thematic analysis from phone interviews (n=20) highlighted key barriers and motivators shown in Table 1. Barriers Number of Participants (n=20 (%)) Data Connectivity 9 (45%) Comfort Concerns 8 (40%) Other 3 (15%) Motivators Altruistic contribution to research 13 (65%) Empowered in accessing personal data 8 (40%) Preventing future invasive monitoring 5 (25%) Conclusions: Wearable technology shows potential for identifying menstrual cycle phases and ovulation. Participants valued access to personal data and potential to reduce invasive monitoring. Barriers included data connectivity and comfort concerns. Future validation studies are required. Support: Myant Corporation and ONE Fertility provided in-kind support.