Just launched Dr. Core after 6 months of nights & weekends – here's what I learned building a "taboo" health app
Hey IH! 👋
I'm a fullstack dev (6 years, mostly React/Vue/Laravel) who decided to dive into React Native when my company started a mobile department. What began as curiosity turned into a 6-month side project journey that just went live.
The problem I'm solving: Pelvic floor dysfunction affects millions (especially after childbirth, aging, or medical conditions) but remains incredibly stigmatized. The existing apps are either overly clinical, poorly designed, or privacy nightmares. I saw a gap for something clean, effective, and truly private.
Meet Dr. Core – a privacy-first pelvic floor trainer for men and women.
🛠️ Tech stack:
React Native (Expo)
Supabase for optional account sync
AsyncStorage for local-first approach
Everything works offline, account creation is optional
Key decisions I made:
Privacy-first: All progress saved locally unless you want device sync
No account required: You can use it forever without signing up
Clean UX: Most competitors look like they're from 2010
Evidence-based: Worked with health professionals for exercise programs
Current status:
Live on both App Store & Google Play
Listed on Product Hunt & Indie Hackers
Early user feedback has been really positive
Still pre-revenue (figuring out monetization)
Biggest challenges:
App Store review process – health apps get extra scrutiny
Marketing a "taboo" topic – can't exactly post TikTok ads about kegels, but I stil do it xd
Balancing simplicity with effectiveness – health apps can get complicated fast
What I'm focusing on next:
User acquisition (biggest challenge right now)
Adding more advanced training programs
Figuring out sustainable monetization without compromising privacy
Questions for the communitys:
How do you market health apps in sensitive categories?
Any experience with health app monetization models?
What would make you trust a privacy-focused health app?
Would love any feedback, roasts, or advice! Building in public feels scary but exciting.
Take a look at the app and learn more at the following:
Thanks for reading! 🙏
