title: Evaluation of smartphone oral contraceptive reminder applications.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Oral contraceptives (OCs) are the most widely used contraceptive method among women of reproductive age in the United States (US). Routine download and use of health-related smartphone applications (apps) continues to increase.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of English-language, smartphone-platform OC reminder apps currently available for download in the US.
  
  
  METHODS
  During June-July 2013, official Internet-based, mobile app platforms for the two major smartphone operating systems in the US-Android (Google Play Store) and iPhone (iTunes)-were searched. "Birth control," "the pill," and "contraception" were entered into the search-bar of each Smartphone store. Apps were assessed for the following: cost, health care professionals' involvement in app development, reminder mechanisms, and functionality.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of the 39 unique OC reminder apps meeting inclusion criteria, 7 (18%) did not operate as intended when downloaded. Most apps functioned without an Internet connection (97%) and included pop-up notifications (84%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Certain app features overcome common causes of missing an alarm, and hypothetically, may minimize likelihood of an OC user missing a daily pill. Health care providers should inform users of potential pitfalls and advise them that an OC reminder app should be not be used as a sole reminder method.
authors: The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43201, USA.
authors: Noga
authors: N
authors: Gal
authors: University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA.
authors: Nikki B
authors: NB
authors: Zite
authors: The Ohio State University, Department of Family Medicine, Columbus, OH 43201, USA. Electronic address: Lorraine.Wallace@osumc.edu.
authors: Lorraine S
authors: LS
authors: Wallace
mesh_terms: D003276:Contraceptives, Oral / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D063731:Mobile Applications / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards*; D017010:Reminder Systems / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards*; D012648:Self Care / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards; D000068997:Smartphone / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards*
chemical_list: D003276:Contraceptives, Oral
keywords: Adolescent; Oral contraceptives; Smartphone; Smartphone applications