One of the ways technology can be assistive is if it helps better monitor certain aspects of life. From things like water intake apps and banking apps to calendars and task managers, technology gives people better access to the various parts of their lives. For a disabled person, digital tools can be more accessible in the sense that a virtual to-do list, for example, could be more approachable than using a pen and notepad.
The team at 28 is making menstrual health more accessible to women.
“28 is a revolutionary app that offers hyper-personalized support based on the user’s menstrual cycle,” said Brittany Hugoboom in an interview with me last month over email. “As the founder of 28, I envisioned a platform that caters to women’s unique needs and empowers them to optimize their health and well-being throughout their cycle.”
28, with apps on iOS and Android, works by using proprietary technologies, including an algorithm, data modeling, and scientific information to provide users with what Hugoboom described as a “hyper-personalized experience.” The impetus for creating 28, Hugoboom told me, came from the team having a realization that there was increased demand for a comprehensive solution that aids women in tracking their cycle. Hugoboom called 28 a “one-stop shop” for this, telling me the software “[provides] them with the necessary tools and resources tailored to their specific cycle phase.” These tools, she added, includes solutions for fitness, nutrition, and other insights—recommendations all based on the individual’s particular cycle.
Asked about what separates 28 from its competitors in the marketplace, Hugoboom reiterated the app’s ability to provide the aforementioned suggestions for fitness and nutrition based upon a woman’s cycle. This holistic approach, she said, “optimize their lives by aligning with their body’s natural rhythms.” Of course, 28 exists to empower all women in monitoring their hormonal health, but from a disability perspective, a disabled woman looking to track their body in this way may well find 28 immensely useful in more ways than one. From a logistical standpoint, it’s highly plausible that using 28 to help keep tabs on one’s cycle is easier to do than other methods for a variety of reasons. Whether visual or cognitive or motor-related or some combination thereof, the fact 28 lives on your smartphone indeed may be 28’s best feature of all.
“We take pride in offering a comprehensive solution that empowers women to achieve their health and well-being goals efficiently,” Hugoboom said to me of 28’s value proposition.
Speaking of medical conditions, a big focus of Hugoboom and team is helping women who cope with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. Endometriosis is a condition whereby uterine tissue grows outside of the uterus, which can cause pain, inflammation, and other complications. As for PCOS, it’s a hormonal disorder that disrupts ovulation and can lead to problems such as the formation of cysts. Hugoboom explained 28 gives women “invaluable assistance” in managing both conditions, saying in part the app has been well-received by users for its ability to help in “significant pain reduction and improved management of their conditions.”
On feedback from the community, Hugoboom went on to tell me the team has been “overwhelmed” by the positive reception, adding the kind words have been “truly amazing and motivating” for everyone at 28.
“Many women have reported remarkable improvements in various aspects of their health since using the app,” she said of the response to 28. “Some have experienced clearer skin, significant weight loss, and pain-free periods. Additionally, users have expressed their appreciation for the Evenstar insights feature, which provides personalized guidance that feels like it understands their lives on a deeper level.”
28’s website showcases a slew of testimonials. One person, identified as Kyleigh D, expressed gratitude for 28 helping her “fall back in love with working out and taking care of my body.” Another, Krysty N, wrote 28 is “an amazing app [that’s] helped me understand my body better.”
As to the future, Hugoboom said 28 is “actively working” on a line of nutraceutical products designed to, she said, “[alleviate] painful cramps and enhancing women’s overall well-being throughout their menstrual cycle.” Generally, however, the overarching goal for Hugoboom and team is continuing their work towards the empowerment of women.
“Our ultimate goal is to empower women to realize that their periods don’t have to be a source of pain and discomfort, enabling them to thrive every day of the month,” Hugoboom said of 28’s North Star. “We are committed to continually innovating and expanding our offerings to support women’s health and wellness journeys.”
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