Natural Cycles, a women’s health company known for developing the first birth control app, has secured $55 million in Series C funding. This new investment brings their total funding to over $95 million. The company plans to use the funds for commercial expansion, product development, and healthcare reimbursement automation. This milestone underscores the growing trust and reliance on digital health solutions specifically designed for women.
Natural Cycles was founded in 2013 by Dr. Elina Berglund Scherwitzl and Dr. Raoul Scherwitzl. Their app remains the only FDA-cleared digital birth control method available in the U.S. and other major markets. Over the past decade, the company has constantly evolved, adding features to support women through various stages of their fertility journey, including a new NC° Postpartum mode designed to aid new mothers.
Previous reports on Natural Cycles have highlighted its pioneering role in digital contraceptives and its rapid user growth. The company had previously faced skepticism regarding the efficacy of app-based contraception, which is now largely dispelled as regulatory approvals affirm its reliability. Earlier funding rounds focused on establishing market presence and regulatory compliance, while the latest round emphasizes scaling and innovation.
Natural Cycles also drew attention for integrating real-time data from wearable devices, enhancing the app’s accuracy. This approach significantly differentiates it from earlier contraceptive methods, which relied solely on user-provided data. The innovative integration aligns with broader trends in healthcare, where technology plays a crucial role in personalizing medical solutions.
Expansion Plans and Funding
The recent funding round was led by Lauxera Capital Partners, with contributions from Point72 Private Investments and a revolving debt facility from J.P. Morgan. Samuel Levy, founding partner of Lauxera, acknowledged Natural Cycles’ unique position in the market and expressed excitement about supporting the company’s future growth. As part of the investment, Levy will join the company’s Board of Directors.
Dr. Raoul Scherwitzl, co-founder and CEO, emphasized the company’s mission to make hormone-free birth control more accessible. The funding will help accelerate commercial efforts and innovate new products to address gaps in women’s healthcare. Natural Cycles has consistently aimed to reduce the side effects and compromises associated with traditional contraceptive methods.
Product Innovations
The NC° Postpartum mode, recently introduced, is the latest addition to the Natural Cycles app. This feature aims to support new mothers through physical and mental recovery after childbirth. It complements existing modes like NC° Birth Control, NC° Plan Pregnancy, and NC° Follow Pregnancy, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for women’s reproductive health.
This holistic approach underscores Natural Cycles’ commitment to providing end-to-end support for women. The app’s ability to adapt to different phases of the fertility journey makes it a versatile tool. The new funding will further enhance these capabilities, ensuring more women can benefit from personalized, science-backed healthcare solutions.
Key Insights
– Natural Cycles has secured significant funding for expansion and innovation.
– Regulatory approvals affirm the app’s reliability, overcoming initial skepticism.
– New features like NC° Postpartum enhance the app’s comprehensive support for women.
Investment in Natural Cycles highlights a growing trend towards digital health solutions tailored for women’s needs. The company’s ability to secure substantial funding reflects confidence in its innovative approach and future potential. By continually adding features and securing regulatory approvals, Natural Cycles has positioned itself as a leader in women’s digital healthcare. The focus on hormone-free solutions and integration with wearable technology aligns with broader healthcare trends, offering personalized and effective medical solutions.
