Standard indicator temperature human body– 36.6°C, but if you dig deeper, this is not exactly the same number. It fluctuates throughout the day, as energy metabolism occurs in the body every minute. Some proteins, fats and carbohydrates break down, while others are formed. These processes are caused by the release of thermal energy, which is concentrated in the intercellular substance and body cells.

Most of these processes occur in the liver, so this organ is the hottest - 38°C. Temperature in the rectum and oral cavity varies from 37.3 to 37.6°C, and skin at the same moment it is much cooler: 36.6 in the axillary zone and approximately 28 ° C in the heel area.

Basal temperature demonstrates the amount of heating human body only internal organs. Without taking into account the heat that the muscles produce when the lower muscles work, upper limbs and torso. Simply put, basal temperature is the body temperature recorded immediately after waking up only the brain, and not the entire body as a whole. You need to measure it immediately after sleep, lying in bed with your eyes still closed.

Basal temperature can be measured to:

• Determine ovulation and favorable days to conceive a child;
• Determine the days on which you can not use protection during sex;
• Diagnose pregnancy at an early stage;
• Assess the woman's hormonal state.

Today this is the most effective, accessible and cheap method of determining hormonal imbalance and ovulation. For early diagnosis it is not very suitable for pregnancy, only if the woman has healthy body and a stable menstrual cycle.

Basal body temperature is measured every morning at the same time (± 30 minutes), without getting out of bed and using a regular mercury thermometer;

• Sleep before the measurement should last at least 4-6 hours;
• The thermometer is inserted into the rectal opening (rectum), or can be inserted into the vagina or mouth. The most accurate readings will be if you insert the thermometer into the rectal opening. In the oral cavity, the temperature is only 0.25-0.5°C higher than in the armpit. This method used in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases;
• Measurement time – 7-10 minutes. You can't take your temperature every day in different ways. If you decide to measure in the vagina, then throughout the entire time you need to measure only there. BT is not measured under the arm. You cannot change thermometers;
• For the reliability of the indicators, it is advisable to quit smoking, taking alcoholic drinks, avoid stress. Inaccurate readings may be caused by insomnia, oral contraceptives, sleeping pills, various diseases(inflammation), frequent flights or moving, sexual intercourse several hours before waking up, overeating at night;
• To prevent your efforts from being in vain, do not forget to place the broken thermometer next to the bed in the evening, so that you can easily reach it with your hand;
• Indicators for 3-4 cycles of measurements are entered into a chart, which must then be presented to the doctor. The graph represents two coordinate axes: temperature and day of the month. A few days' worth of information is enough to determine pregnancy.

Basal temperature increases with each additional hour of sleep, so it should be measured at the same time and preferably before 8 am. During the day, the temperature of the body and internal organs of a person constantly changes and this is normal. It depends on physical activity, food intake, emotional stress experienced, clothing and other factors. external environment.

Finding the optimal time for measurement during the day is almost impossible. If in the evening and in the morning biological activity body is moderate, then during the day it can approach the maximum value.

BT in the evening is always higher than morning readings; measuring it at this time of day is not recommended. But if you are awake at night, you can measure BT during the day after sleeping for at least 5 hours.

The basal temperature recorded in the morning when you wake up may differ from the temperature in the evening by one degree. For medical analysis This is quite a big discrepancy. It is the morning value that is the norm from which women and the doctors treating them start.

Keep a schedule basal temperature You can start when planning a pregnancy and end observations after the first trimester. It provides relatively reliable information about the functioning of the ovaries and the state of the uterine epithelium. The functioning of these organs is controlled by the hormones progesterone and estrogen, periodically increasing and decreasing on certain days.

The “thermometer method” is often criticized: failure to follow the measurement rules leads to blurred results and confuses the woman during the analysis. Undoubtedly, medical examination much more reliable, but there is nothing wrong with independently monitoring your own health during pregnancy. There will be no harm from additional precautions unless mandatory medical support is avoided.

Due to evening loss of energy, basal temperature during pregnancy can drop by 0.1-0.2°C. Daytime temperature is not taken into account, from varying degrees The activity of the body tends to decrease and increase every hour.

How does temperature change during a cycle?

The menstrual cycle consists of two phases. Basal temperature varies depending on the phase. In the first phase of the cycle, estrogen exerts its influence, and after ovulation (second phase), progesterone begins to act. During menstruation, the temperature is always elevated (37°C). At the end of menstruation it decreases to 36.2 - 36.7°C. Ovulation occurs with a jump to 36.9-37.2°C over three days, so it can be easily calculated and the date of release of the egg next month can be found out. The second phase of the cycle is due to elevated temperature, and a week before the next menstruation there is a decrease to the previous value - 36.2-36.7. If BT continues to remain at 37°, then the hormone progesterone has begun to prepare the uterus to receive a fertilized egg. This is the first sign of pregnancy before the delay.

However, it must be taken into account that in addition to pregnancy, increased BT at the end of the second phase can be caused by infectious diseases. gynecological diseases, exercise and some medications. Increased rate persists throughout almost the entire pregnancy.

There is an opinion that before a miscarriage or fetal death, a decrease occurs. There is no need to take this information seriously. A one-time decrease may be associated with the general condition of the body or measurement error during pregnancy. But if there is a persistent decrease, then you can play it safe and consult a doctor. An increase to 37.8°C or higher may also be alarm signal the body about the occurrence of inflammation processes during pregnancy.

Measuring basal body temperature (BBT or BBT) - home diagnostic method, which allows you to obtain information about the phase of the menstrual cycle, the approach and onset of ovulation, the state of hormonal levels, confirms pregnancy and gives an idea of ​​​​the nature of its course. It is also used as natural way contraception. BT is the lowest temperature level that the body reaches in a state of complete rest, in particular during sleep.

Today, measuring basal temperature and analyzing graphs obtained during ovulation in medical practice used infrequently. Modern equipment and the availability of ultrasound reduce the relevance this study. However, the method is suitable for self-control and is easy to use at home. Reviews from women confirm this.

What is the method based on?

A woman’s body temperature depends on many factors, the main one of which is changes in the concentration of sex hormones during the menstrual cycle. Moreover, fluctuations can be observed not even by weeks, but by hours and minutes.

• First phase of the cycle. It is caused by the work of estrogens, under the influence of which the egg matures. During ovulation, the levels of these hormones, regulated by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), reach their peak. As a result, the mature egg is released from the follicle for fertilization. Increased concentration inhibits estrogen metabolic processes. Accordingly, the temperature in the tissues of the pelvic organs decreases.
• Second phase of the cycle. Regulated by progestins. After ovulation, the concentration of these hormones increases and affects the formation of the endometrium. Progesterone is also responsible for the normal course of the gestation period, which is why it received the name “pregnancy hormone”. It stimulates thermoregulatory processes, which causes increased basal temperature during pregnancy, before menstruation.

By regularly measuring your basal temperature over several months, you can determine how the phases of the menstrual cycle change, when ovulation occurs and the most likely days of conception. And also find out whether it took place.

To do this, BT indicators are entered into a special chart every day. You can create it yourself or use separate calendars and electronic applications.

Basal temperature indicators are quite relative, since the concentration of sex hormones constantly changes in absolute values. But that doesn't stop me this method to be one of the most common when planning pregnancy due to its accessibility and information content. Also, knowing how basal temperature changes, a woman can calculate “safe” days for intimacy. Of course, provided the cycle is stable.

What does basal temperature show?

BT data are informative not only for the patient, but also for doctors. At correct decoding The basal temperature chart can determine pregnancy, as well as:

• relative concentration of estrogens and gestagens;
• approach and onset of ovulation;
• deviations in menstrual cycle;
• pathology of pregnancy in the 1st trimester:
• suspicion of infertility;
• inflammatory processes in the genital organs.

6 rules for accurate results

Basal temperature is a very sensitive indicator and can be affected by various factors. Therefore, the reliability of the conclusions depends only on the accuracy of the measurements. To achieve this, you need to prepare to build a BT schedule. Here are the main recommendations:

• limit sex - a few hours before measuring the BTT indicator;
• avoid stress- physical and emotional at the time of measurements;
• follow a diet - it is useful to limit the consumption of salty, fatty, fried foods;
• rest - before measuring your basal temperature, you need to sleep for at least three hours.

To measure basal temperature to determine ovulation, it is necessary to adhere to the following six rules.

1. Measurement frequency. Temperature readings should be recorded at the same time every day, noting them in a special chart (table). BBT measurements should also be taken before and during menstruation.
2. Method. BTT is measured rectally - in the rectum. Oral and vaginal methods are not standard for this procedure and do not provide accurate results.
3. Times of Day . The procedure is carried out in the morning. Before it, the woman must be in a state of complete rest (preferably sleep) for at least three hours. If there was a night shift at work the day before, you should make a note, as this may affect the result. There is no point in conducting research in the evening - it is uninformative at this time. Any physical actions. It is not even recommended to shake the thermometer before measuring. Any activity changes the basal temperature readings, so the procedure is carried out at the moment of awakening and before getting out of bed.
4. Thermometer. Measurements should be carried out with the same thermometer, without changing mercury to electronic and vice versa. The most reliable readings are provided by a mercury thermometer. It needs to be brought down to a minimum level the night before, so as not to put effort into it immediately before the procedure.
5. Duration. It is acceptable if a woman does not ovulate every month, especially closer to 40 years of age. Therefore, measurements should be carried out over a long period of time (at least 12 weeks). During pregnancy, it makes sense to measure up to the 2nd trimester; in the 3rd trimester, the hormonal profile “at its own discretion” changes the temperature.
6. Recording indicators. It is best to note the obtained result immediately in the graph: since the difference in indicators can be tenths of a degree, they are easy to forget or confuse. As basal temperature markers are set, it is recommended to connect them with lines. The graph should also note any factors that could affect the changes and reliability of the data.

BT indicators: normal...

There are relative norms for basal temperature, according to which you can, without the help of a specialist, calculate what phase the cycle is in and the days of highest female fertility.

• First phase (downgrade). Regulated by estrogens. Occurs on days 1-13 of the cycle. Immediately after menstruation, the basal temperature drops to 36.6-36.2°C.
• Ovulatory phase (fluctuations). Peak activity of estrogen, FSH and LH. Lasts up to three days. A day or two before ovulation, BT reaches 36.6-36.7°C. Basal temperature during ovulation rises by 0.1-0.4°C. After the follicle ruptures and the egg is released, the indicator is 37-37.4°C.
• Second phase (increase). Regulated by progesterone and occurs on days 16-28 of the cycle. During this period, BT is increased, its values ​​vary between 37-37.4°C.

A few days before the onset of menstruation after ovulation, progesterone levels rapidly decrease and a low basal temperature is again noted (within 36.8-36.6 ° C).

... and deviations

The basal temperature chart is a kind of indicator of a woman’s health status. Deviations from the norm in BT indicators may indicate the following.

• Inflammation . If an elevated basal temperature is recorded before and during menstruation, this may indicate an inflammatory process in the organs of the reproductive system.
• Disadvantage of the second phase. BBT levels in the luteal phase of the cycle below normal indicate progesterone deficiency.
• Individual characteristics of the body. Small deviations (in tenths of a degree) that persist throughout the entire cycle may be individual manifestations of the body’s functioning.
• Ovulation offset. Moving the BT jump horizontally according to the schedule (to the right or left side) indicates early or late ovulation. Only a specialist can judge its success.
• Double ovulation. It is characterized by two peaks of temperature increase. Moreover, the second one is possible in the late second phase, superimposed on the main value and therefore difficult to notice.

No ovulation

If the cycle has passed without ovulation, several options for basal temperature charts are possible.

• High temperature in the first phase. When in the first half of the cycle the temperature is more than 36.6°C, this indicates that estrogen levels are low. There are not enough of them to control the temperature, so the egg cannot mature.
• Smooth rather than rapid rise in temperature. Such dynamics of BT during ovulation indicates the inferiority of the egg, which is why the follicle does not rupture.
• Sudden drop and then rise in temperature. In the second phase, this indicates that the egg has died.
• Smooth temperatures throughout the entire cycle. Complete absence jumps in basal temperature indicate a lack of ovulation.

Application hormonal drugs(for example, Duphaston, oral contraceptives) changes basal temperature. The jumps depend on what type of hormones were used.

Values ​​during pregnancy

Often women resort to the method of measuring basal temperature to increase their chances of conceiving. Many people rely on BBT readings to determine whether a pregnancy has occurred and how it is progressing. This method is effective (including for twins and triplets), but only in the early stages - more modern and reliable diagnostic methods are available from the 2nd trimester.

Basal temperature during pregnancy may have the following indicators.

• Current pregnancy. If fertilization has occurred, after ovulation until menstruation is delayed, an increase in basal temperature is observed, which will subsequently remain at a high level. This is due to the influence of progesterone. If menstruation does not occur and the temperature has dropped, this indicates a cyclic failure. The normal basal temperature in early pregnancy is within 37-37.5°C.
• Frozen pregnancy. If the fact of conception is established, but is observed sharp decline BT during early pregnancy, which subsequently remains at the same level, indicates the death of the embryo.
• Ectopic pregnancy. Most often, in the early stages, such cases do not affect the basal temperature and the schedule corresponds to the developing pregnancy.
• Threat of miscarriage. Often the cause of miscarriage is progesterone deficiency, as indicated by low basal temperature both before and after the delay. If at the same time there appeared spotting, you need to sound the alarm and seek medical help.

The basal temperature chart during pregnancy can be influenced by many factors, so it should only be an auxiliary, and not the main method of monitoring health during this period.

Every woman has probably heard the term “basal temperature”. What this is, everyone has their own concept, but most will say that this is an indicator that is needed to track ovulation when planning a pregnancy. In general terms, yes, but this topic needs to be explored more fully so that there are no blank spots left in it. We will start with a definition and touch on measurement and graphing techniques. In addition, I would like to consider how basal temperature changes during pregnancy.

Basic knowledge

We will start from the very beginning, that is, with the definition of “basal temperature”. What this is will now become clear. This is a temperature that is measured rectally. There are two points that are important to consider. To obtain accurate and reliable information, measurements must be taken strictly at the same time and after a long rest. That is, the optimal time is 6 o'clock in the morning, when you just woke up.

What are these indicators for? To analyze hormonal levels. Moreover, all changes are in force biological factors and the causes occur only locally, so putting a thermometer under your arm is pointless. There is one more point that needs to be taken into account: if a person is overheated or sick, the basal temperature also changes. It is unnecessary to add that this may cause data distortion.

You need to know this

Why will you conduct the research? Taking a single measurement in itself does not give anything. But the totality of data over several months allows us to get a fairly bright and clear picture. Another important point. By taking measurements, women achieve exactly one thing: they can clearly see how their menstrual cycle progresses, when the egg matures and ovulation occurs.

But if you take hormonal contraceptives, then this technique stops working for the simple reason that the cycle is regulated by the hormones you take, and not by your own. Moreover, their action is aimed at preventing the eggs from maturing. Therefore, no matter how long you plot the graphs, the basal temperature will always be the same. You already guessed that this is completely uninformative.

Learning to measure temperature

Once again remembering the basic rules, you must complete the entire procedure early in the morning, without getting out of bed even to get a thermometer. That is, we set an alarm clock within reach and, barely opening our eyes, measure it. Only in this case can the indicators be considered informative. Let us emphasize once again that the body must be at rest. Do not stretch or sit up in bed, and do not throw back the blanket. Just bend your legs slightly and insert the tip of the thermometer into anus. You need to lie still for about 5 minutes.

After that, put it on a pre-prepared napkin and you can calmly fill it up or get up. Basal temperature during the day is not measured for the simple reason that physical activity makes the indicators completely uninformative. Even if you build a graph based on the results of many months of measurements, you will not be able to see anything from it. So we digress a bit. The result obtained should be immediately entered into a notebook, or better yet, immediately transferred to a simple graph, where one axis is the date, and the second is BT.

Measurements during the day

Sometimes, wanting to get the most reliable data, a woman begins to take measurements every two hours. This not only does not add information, but is also confusing. The result is a huge amount of data, which is more difficult to process, since the indicators contradict each other. Depending on physical activity, emotional state, food intake and other environmental factors, the numbers will change constantly. Finding the optimal time for measurement during the day is almost impossible.

Plotting a graph

Most often, women begin to take measurements in order to track ovulation and not to watch for the onset of pregnancy. Basal temperature during early pregnancy really changes a lot. As we said above, you can't say anything until you have several months of information accumulated. Only then will you be able to clearly assess the cyclicity and determine which of the peaks ovulation occurs at. Based on the results, you can calculate the days of ovulation and determine the period of greatest fertility.

First of all, this information is important for couples who are planning a child. This method is also used by those who want to avoid unwanted pregnancy. However, doctors recommend in this case the additional use of other methods of contraception. During early pregnancy, basal temperature rises sharply, after which it remains at approximately 37.2 for some time.

Technical details

So let's get down to practice. You will need a squared notebook, a pen and a thermometer, preferably digital and not mercury, so as not to be afraid of accidentally breaking it when you wake up. Prepare the coordinate axes in advance. The horizontal axis shows the number of the day of the cycle. There are some nuances here. The countdown should be started from the first day of menstruation. By taking it as a starting point, you will create the most accurate graph. On one axis you will plot your measurements daily. It is important to maintain accuracy to 0.1 degrees.

What the graph allows you to see

Basal temperature readings must be entered daily. Miss just one day, and reliable information will no longer be available. In just a couple of months it will be necessary to reliably determine:

Fluctuations in the graph are normal

It is important to be able not only to construct, but also to read the graph correctly. To do this, it is not at all necessary to have a medical education; it is enough to carefully familiarize yourself with this material. Once again we draw your attention to the fact that we are talking about indicators healthy woman, any disease can distort information.

From the first day of the cycle, BT decreases. From 37.2 it reaches 36.5. You can easily see these fluctuations on your monthly chart. Around the middle of the cycle, the egg matures and is released. It is at this time that the temperature slowly rises to 37.1-37.3 degrees over 3-4 days. It is this long, smooth rise that you will see on the vertical axis.

After this, the most stable period begins, the line remains at the same level throughout the entire second half of the cycle. The indicators remain at the level of 37.2-37.4. The next changes are expected 2-3 days before the start of menstruation. Now you are recording the indicators that were at the beginning of the cycle (36.9). Basal temperature during early pregnancy remains consistently high; this characteristic decrease is not observed.

Waiting for a miracle

Let's look again at how to determine that you are really expecting a baby. Let us remember that we are talking about those periods when only the most sensitive tests can correctly diagnose conception. The basal temperature at an early stage, when life is just beginning to emerge in you, noticeably changes its character. Indicators that were supposed to decline will remain at the same level as throughout the entire second half of the cycle. The temperature will remain at 37.2 throughout the entire period of the expected menstruation.

Pathological basal temperature

However, it also happens that successful conception you can accept completely different indicators. That is why we say that even the best schedule cannot replace competent consultation with a specialist. The average BT should remain at 37.2 degrees. In some cases, it is permissible to increase it to 38. However, this is already the upper limit of the norm. If BT reaches these levels or rises higher, you should immediately consult a doctor.

A high basal temperature before menstruation can not only indicate conception, but also indicate the presence various kinds inflammatory diseases. But you shouldn’t diagnose yourself. Better consult a doctor. Don't forget about the possibility that you may simply take measurements incorrectly, resulting in unreliable results.

How to measure the temperature of pregnant women correctly

Even after interesting situation woman is confirmed, the doctor may recommend continuing to carry out her observations. Sometimes this is done because, based on the examination, the gynecologist can only assume the presence of pregnancy, and additional data is required to confirm the diagnosis.

Basal temperature in the early stages is very indicative. Analyzing the table, you can see the following patterns:

• The increase in indicators lasts at least 3 days longer than on standard charts. This is the time when the temperature remains high for several days after ovulation.
• If, while reading the chart, you see that the corpus luteum phase lasts more than 18 days.
• In a standard, two-phase graph, you see a third peak.

From the point of view of diagnosing BT, the first 2 weeks of pregnancy are reliable. After that hormonal background is changing. Therefore, the basal temperature after the first delay will have little benefit for the patient herself. However, if the doctor asks to continue monitoring, it is worth listening to him.

Developments

This is already quite reliable signs onset of pregnancy. You'll soon notice more obvious symptoms which are familiar to every woman. What basal temperature should be in the first trimester? To answer this question, we need to delve a little deeper into physiology.

The trained reader knows well what causes the increase in BT indicators. Hormones are to blame for this, which are designed to prepare the walls of the uterus and secure the fertilized egg. When pregnancy occurs, hormones continue to be produced in large quantities, so for the first three months the graph will show an almost flat line, at the level of 37.1-37.3. After about 20 weeks of pregnancy it begins to decline.

Possible reasons for the decrease in BT

Indicators are considered low if their value is below 37 degrees. This may mean that there are complications during pregnancy. Therefore, in this case, you need to take measurements the next day, and if the readings are low again, consult a doctor. In addition, it is recommended to take additional measurements during the day and compare them with morning readings.

If doctors diagnose low progesterone levels, the woman is hospitalized for conservation. Sometimes a decrease in BT indicates fetal fading. In this case corpus luteum ceases to perform its functions. However, a diagnosis cannot be made only on the basis of the graph, since sometimes even in the presence of a frozen pregnancy, the temperature remains high. This once again emphasizes the fact that any data must be analyzed by a specialist, checking it with examination results and laboratory tests.

Instead of a conclusion

If you want to get to know your body better and understand the processes that take place in it, then we advise every woman to start measuring BBT. Just 4-5 months of regular measurements will give you a wealth of material on the basis of which you can plan future pregnancy or it is more effective to avoid it.

Measuring basal temperature has become truly folk remedy pregnancy planning.

Why measure basal temperature

Basal or rectal temperature(BT)– This is the body temperature at rest after at least 3-6 hours of sleep, the temperature is measured in the mouth, rectum or vagina. The temperature measured at this moment is practically not affected by environmental factors. Experience shows that many women perceive the doctor’s demands to measure basal temperature as a formality and basal temperature does not solve anything, but this is far from the case.

The method of measuring basal body temperature was developed in 1953 by the English professor Marshall and refers to research methods that are based on the biological effect of sex hormones, namely on the hyperthermic (increase in temperature) action of progesterone on the thermoregulation center. Measuring basal body temperature is one of the main tests functional diagnostics ovarian function. Based on the results of BT measurements, a graph is constructed; an analysis of basal temperature graphs is given below.

Measuring basal temperature and charting is recommended in gynecology in the following cases:

If you have been trying to get pregnant for a year without success
If you suspect yourself or your partner is infertile
If your gynecologist suspects you have hormonal disorders

In addition to the above cases, when charting basal body temperature is recommended by a gynecologist, you can measure basal body temperature if:

Do you want to increase your chances of pregnancy?
You are experimenting with methods of planning the gender of your child
You want to observe your body and understand the processes taking place in it (this can help you communicate with specialists)

Experience shows that many women perceive the doctor’s demands to measure basal temperature as a formality and it does not solve anything.

In fact, by measuring your basal body temperature, you and your doctor can find out:

Does the egg mature and when does this happen (accordingly, highlight “dangerous” days for the purpose of protection or, conversely, the possibility of getting pregnant);
Did ovulation occur after the egg matured?
Determine the quality of your work endocrine system
Suspect problems gynecological nature, for example, endometritis
When to expect your next menstruation
Whether pregnancy occurred due to delay or unusual menstruation;
Assess how correctly the ovaries secrete hormones according to the phases of the menstrual cycle;

A graph of basal temperature, drawn up according to all measurement rules, can show not only the presence of ovulation in a cycle or its absence, but also indicate diseases of the reproductive and endocrine systems. You must measure your basal temperature for at least 3 cycles so that the information accumulated during this time allows you to make accurate predictions about the expected date of ovulation and the most favorable time of conception, as well as conclusions about hormonal disorders. Only a gynecologist can give an accurate assessment of your basal temperature chart. Drawing up a basal temperature chart can help a gynecologist determine deviations in the cycle and suggest the absence of ovulation, but at the same time, the gynecologist makes a diagnosis only and exclusively by looking at the basal temperature chart without additional tests and examinations most often indicate medical unprofessionalism.

It is necessary to measure the basal temperature, and not the body temperature at the armpit. General increase temperature as a result of illness, overheating, physical activity, eating, stress, naturally affects basal temperature indicators and makes them unreliable.

Thermometer for measuring basal temperature.

You will need a regular medical thermometer: mercury or electronic. Using a mercury thermometer, measure your basal temperature for five minutes. electronic thermometer it must be removed after the signal about the end of the measurement. After it squeaks, the temperature will continue to rise for some time, since the thermometer records the moment when the temperature rises above very slowly (and don’t listen to the nonsense about the thermometer not being in good contact with the muscles of the anus). The thermometer must be prepared in advance, in the evening, by placing it next to the bed. Do not place mercury thermometers under your pillow!

Rules for measuring basal temperature.

You should measure your basal temperature every day if possible, including on your period.

Measurements can be taken in the mouth, vagina or rectum. The main thing is that the measurement location does not change throughout the entire cycle. Measuring armpit temperature does not provide accurate results. At orally measuring basal temperature You place the thermometer under your tongue and measure with your mouth closed for 5 minutes.
For vaginal or rectal method enter measurements narrow part thermometer into the anus or vagina, measurement duration is 3 minutes. Measuring temperature in the rectum is the most common.

Measure your basal temperature in the morning, immediately after waking up and before getting out of bed.

It is necessary to measure basal temperature at the same time (a difference of half an hour to an hour (maximum one and a half hours) is acceptable). If you decide to sleep longer on the weekend, make a note about it in your schedule. Keep in mind that every extra hour of sleep raises your basal temperature by about 0.1 degrees.

Continuous sleep before measuring basal temperature in the morning should last at least three hours. Therefore, if you take your temperature at 8 am, but got up at 7 am to go, for example, to the toilet, it is better to measure your BBT before that, otherwise, at your usual 8 o’clock it will no longer be informative.

You can use either a digital or a mercury thermometer to measure. It is important not to change the thermometer during one cycle.
If you use mercury thermometer, then shake it off before going to sleep. The effort you use to shake off the thermometer immediately before measuring your basal temperature can affect your temperature.

Basal temperature is measured while lying still. Do not make unnecessary movements, do not turn, activity should be minimal. Do not under any circumstances get up to take a thermometer! Therefore, it is better to prepare it in the evening and place it near the bed so that you can reach the thermometer with your hand. Some experts advise taking the measurement without even opening your eyes, as daylight can increase the release of certain hormones.

Readings from the thermometer are taken immediately after it is removed.

It is best to immediately record your basal temperature after measurement. Otherwise you will forget or get confused. The basal temperature is approximately the same every day, differing by tenths of degrees. Relying on your memory, you can get confused in the readings. If the thermometer readings are between two numbers, record the lower reading.

The graph must indicate the reasons that could lead to an increase in basal temperature (ARI, inflammatory diseases etc.).

Business trips, travel and flights, sexual intercourse the night before or in the morning can significantly affect your basal temperature.

In case of illnesses accompanied by elevated body temperature, your basal temperature will be uninformative and you can stop taking measurements for the duration of your illness.

Various medications, such as sleeping pills, sedatives and hormonal drugs, can affect basal temperature.
Measuring basal temperature and simultaneous use of oral (hormonal) contraceptives does not make any sense. Basal temperature depends on the concentration of hormones in the tablets.

After drinking a large amount of alcohol, the basal temperature will be uninformative.

When working at night, basal temperature is measured during the day after at least 3-4 hours of sleep.

The basal body temperature (BT) recording table should contain the following lines:

Day of the month
Cycle day
BT
Notes: Heavy or moderate discharge, deviations that can affect BT: general disease, including with an increase in temperature, diarrhea, intercourse in the evening (and even more so in the morning), drinking alcohol the day before, measuring BT at an unusual time, going to bed late (for example, I went to bed at 3 o’clock and measured it at 6), taking sleeping pills, stress, etc.

All factors that in one way or another could affect the change in basal temperature are entered in the “Notes” column.

This form of recording is very helpful for both the woman and her doctor to understand possible reasons infertility, cycle disorders, etc.

Rationale for the basal body temperature method

Basal body temperature changes during the cycle under the influence of hormones.

During the maturation of the egg against the background of a high level of estrogen (the first phase of the menstrual cycle, hypothermic, “low”), the basal temperature is low; on the eve of ovulation it drops to its minimum, and then rises again, reaching a maximum. At this hour, ovulation occurs. After ovulation, a phase of high temperature begins (the second phase of the menstrual cycle, hyperthermic, “high”), which is caused by low levels of estrogen and high level progesterone. Pregnancy under the influence of progesterone also occurs entirely in a high temperature phase. The difference between the “low” (hypothermic) and “high” (hyperthermic) phases is 0.4-0.8 °C. Only when precise measurement basal body temperature can record the level of “low” temperature in the first half of the menstrual cycle, the transition from “low” to “high” on the day of ovulation, and the level of temperature in the second phase of the cycle.

Usually during menstruation the temperature remains at 37°C. During the period of follicle maturation (the first phase of the cycle), the temperature does not exceed 37°C. Just before ovulation it decreases (the result of the action of estrogen), and after it the basal temperature rises to 37.1 ° C and higher (the influence of progesterone). Until the next menstruation, the basal temperature remains elevated and decreases slightly by the first day of menstruation. If the basal temperature in the first phase, relative to the second, is high, then this may indicate a low amount of estrogen in the body and requires correction medicines containing female sex hormones. On the contrary, if in the second phase, relative to the first, a low basal temperature is observed, then this is an indicator low level progesterone, and here drugs are also prescribed to correct hormonal levels. This should be done only after passing the appropriate hormone tests and a doctor’s prescription.

A persistent two-phase cycle indicates ovulation, which has taken place, and the presence of a functionally active corpus luteum (the correct rhythm of the ovaries).
The absence of a rise in temperature in the second phase of the cycle (monotonic curve) or significant temperature swings, both in the first and second half of the cycle with the absence of a stable rise, indicates inoculation (lack of release of the egg from the ovaries).
Delayed rise and its short duration (hypothermic phase for 2-7, up to 10 days) is observed with a shortening of the luteal phase, insufficient rise (0.2-0.3 ° C) - with insufficient functioning of the corpus luteum.
The thermogenic effect of progesterone leads to an increase in body temperature by at least 0.33 ° C (the effect lasts until the end of the luteal, that is, the second, phase of the menstrual cycle). Progesterone levels peak 8-9 days after ovulation, which roughly corresponds to the time the fertilized egg implants into the uterine wall.

By charting your basal temperature, you can not only determine when you ovulate, but also find out what processes are occurring in your body.

Interpretation of basal temperature charts. Examples

If the basal temperature chart is constructed correctly, taking into account the measurement rules, it can reveal not only the presence or absence of ovulation, but also some diseases.

Covering line

The line is drawn over 6 temperature values ​​in the first phase of the cycle preceding ovulation.

This does not take into account the first 5 days of the cycle, as well as days on which the temperature could be affected by various negative factors (see rules for measuring temperature). This line does not allow any conclusions to be drawn from the graph and is for illustrative purposes only.

Ovulation line

In order to judge the onset of ovulation, the rules established by the World Health Organization (WHO) are used:

Three temperature values ​​in a row must be above the level of the line drawn over the previous 6 temperature values.
The difference between the center line and the three temperature values ​​must be at least 0.1 degrees on two days out of three and at least 0.2 degrees on one of those days.

If your temperature curve meets these requirements, then an ovulation line will appear on your basal temperature chart 1-2 days after ovulation.

Sometimes it is not possible to determine ovulation using the WHO method due to the fact that there are high temperatures in the first phase of the cycle. In this case, you can apply the “finger rule” to the basal temperature chart. This rule excludes temperature values ​​that differ from the previous or subsequent temperature by more than 0.2 degrees. Such temperature values ​​should not be taken into account when calculating ovulation if, in general, The basal temperature chart is normal.

The most optimal time For conception, the day of ovulation and 2 days before it are considered.

Menstrual cycle length

The total length of the cycle should normally not be shorter than 21 days and should not exceed 35 days. If your cycles are shorter or longer, then you may have ovarian dysfunction, which is often the cause of infertility and requires treatment by a gynecologist.

Second phase length

The basal temperature chart is divided into the first and second phases. The division takes place where the ovulation line (vertical) is marked. Accordingly, the first phase of the cycle is the segment of the graph before ovulation, and the second phase of the cycle is after ovulation.

The length of the second phase of the cycle is normally from 12 to 16 days, most often 14 days. In contrast, the length of the first phase can vary greatly and these variations are the individual norm. At the same time, in a healthy woman in different cycles there should be no significant differences in the length of the first phase and the second phase. The total length of the cycle normally changes only due to the length of the first phase.

One of the problems identified on the graphs and confirmed by subsequent hormonal studies is the failure of the second phase. If you measure your basal temperature over several cycles, following all the measurement rules, and your second phase is shorter than 10 days, this is a reason to consult a gynecologist. Also, if you regularly have sexual intercourse during ovulation, pregnancy does not occur and the length of the second phase is at the lower limit (10 or 11 days), then this may indicate insufficiency of the second phase.

Temperature difference

Normally, the difference in average temperatures of the first and second phases should be more than 0.4 degrees. If it is lower, this may indicate hormonal problems. Get a blood test for progesterone and estrogen and consult a gynecologist.

An increase in basal temperature occurs when serum progesterone levels exceed 2.5-4.0 ng/ml (7.6-12.7 nmol/l). However, monophasic basal temperature has been identified in a number of patients with normal level progesterone in the second phase of the cycle. In addition, monophasic basal temperature is observed in approximately 20% of ovulatory cycles. A simple statement of two-phase basal temperature does not prove normal function corpus luteum. Basal temperature also cannot be used to determine the time of ovulation, since even during luteinization of an unovulated follicle, a two-phase basal temperature is observed. However, the duration of the luteal phase in accordance with basal temperature data and low speed a rise in basal temperature after ovulation is accepted by many authors as criteria for diagnosing luteinization syndrome of a non-ovulating follicle.

Classic gynecological manuals describe five main types of temperature curves.

Such graphs indicate an increase in temperature in the second phase of the cycle by at least 0.4 C; a noticeable “preovulatory” and “premenstrual” drop in temperature. The duration of the temperature increase after ovulation is 12-14 days. This curve is typical for a normal two-phase menstrual cycle.

The example graph shows a pre-ovulatory drop on the 12th day of the cycle (the temperature drops significantly two days before ovulation), as well as a premenstrual drop starting from the 26th day of the cycle.

There is a slight rise in temperature in the second phase. The temperature difference in the first and second phases is no more than 0.2-0.3 C. Such a curve may indicate estrogen-progesterone deficiency. See examples of graphs below.

If such graphs are repeated from cycle to cycle, then this may indicate hormonal imbalances which are the cause of infertility.

Basal temperature begins to rise only shortly before menstruation, and there is no “premenstrual” drop in temperature. The second phase of the cycle can last less than 10 days. This curve is typical for a two-phase menstrual cycle with insufficiency of the second phase. See examples of graphs below.

Pregnancy in such a cycle is possible, but it is under threat from the very beginning. At this moment, the woman still cannot know about the pregnancy; even gynecologists would find it difficult to make a diagnosis at this stage. early. With such a schedule, we may not be talking about infertility, but about miscarriage. Be sure to contact your gynecologist if this schedule repeats for you for 3 cycles.

In a cycle without ovulation, the corpus luteum, which produces the hormone progesterone and affects the increase in basal body temperature, does not form. In this case, the basal temperature chart does not show a rise in temperature and ovulation is not detected. If there is no ovulation line on the graph, in this case we're talking about about the anovulatory cycle.

Every woman can have several anovulatory cycles per year - this is normal and does not require medical intervention, but if this situation repeats from cycle to cycle, then be sure to consult a gynecologist. Without ovulation, pregnancy is impossible!

A monotonous curve occurs when there is no pronounced rise throughout the entire cycle. This schedule is observed during an anovulatory (no ovulation) cycle. See examples of graphs below.

On average, a woman has one anovulatory cycle per year and there is no reason to worry in this case. But anovulatory patterns that are repeated from cycle to cycle are a very serious reason to consult a gynecologist. Without ovulation, a woman cannot become pregnant and we are talking about female infertility.

Estrogen deficiency

Chaotic temperature curve. The graph shows large temperature ranges; it does not fit into any of the types described above. This type of curve can be observed both with severe estrogen deficiency and depend on random factors. Examples of graphs are below.

A competent gynecologist will definitely require hormone tests and conduct an ultrasound examination before prescribing medications.

High basal temperature in the first phase

The basal temperature chart is divided into the first and second phases. The division takes place where the ovulation line (vertical line) is marked. Accordingly, the first phase of the cycle is the segment of the graph before ovulation, and the second phase of the cycle is after ovulation.

Estrogen deficiency

In the first phase of the cycle in female body The dominant hormone is estrogen. Under the influence of this hormone, the basal temperature before ovulation averages between 36.2 and 36.5 degrees. If the temperature in the first phase rises and remains above this level, then estrogen deficiency can be assumed. In this case, the average temperature of the first phase rises to 36.5 - 36.8 degrees and is maintained at this level. To increase estrogen levels, gynecologists-endocrinologists will prescribe hormonal medications.

Estrogen deficiency also leads to elevated temperature in the second phase of the cycle (above 37.1 degrees), while the rise in temperature is slower and takes more than 3 days.

Using the example graph, the temperature in the first phase is above 37.0 degrees, in the second phase it rises to 37.5, the rise in temperature by 0.2 degrees on the 17th and 18th days of the cycle is insignificant. Fertilization in a cycle with such a schedule is very problematic.

Inflammation of the appendages

Another reason for the increase in temperature in the first phase may be inflammation of the appendages. In this case, the temperature rises only for a few days in the first phase to 37 degrees, and then drops again. In such graphs, calculating ovulation is difficult, since such a rise “masks” the ovulatory rise.

In the example graph, the temperature in the first phase of the cycle is kept at 37.0 degrees, the increase occurs sharply and also decreases sharply. A rise in temperature on the 6th day of the cycle can be mistaken for an ovulatory rise, but in fact it most likely indicates inflammation. That's why it's so important to measure your temperature throughout your cycle to rule out a scenario where your temperature rises due to inflammation, then drops again, and then rises due to ovulation.

Endometritis

Normally, the temperature in the first phase should decrease during menstrual bleeding. If your temperature at the end of the cycle drops before the start of menstruation and rises again to 37.0 degrees with the beginning of menstruation (less often on the 2-3rd day of the cycle), then this may indicate the presence of endometritis.

Characteristically, the temperature drops before menstruation and rises with the beginning of the next cycle. If there is no drop in temperature before the start of menstruation in the first cycle, i.e. the temperature remains at this level, then pregnancy can be assumed, despite the bleeding that has begun. Take a pregnancy test and contact a gynecologist who will perform an ultrasound to make an accurate diagnosis.

If the basal temperature in the first phase rises sharply for one day, then this does not mean anything. Inflammation of the appendages cannot begin and end in one day. Also, a lack of estrogen can only be assumed by assessing the entire graph, and not a separate temperature in the first phase. For diseases accompanied by high or elevated body temperature, measuring basal temperature, much less judging its nature and analyzing the graph, makes no sense.

Low temperature in the second phase of the menstrual cycle

In the second phase of the cycle, the basal temperature should differ significantly (by about 0.4 degrees) from the first phase and be at 37.0 degrees or higher if you measure the temperature rectally. If the temperature difference is less than 0.4 degrees and the average temperature of the second phase does not reach 36.8 degrees, then this may indicate problems.

Corpus luteum deficiency

In the second phase of the cycle, the female body begins to produce the hormone progesterone or the hormone of the corpus luteum. This hormone is responsible for raising the temperature in the second phase of the cycle and preventing the onset of menstruation. If this hormone is not enough, the temperature rises slowly and the resulting pregnancy may be in jeopardy.

The temperature with corpus luteum deficiency rises shortly before menstruation, and there is no “premenstrual” drop. This may indicate hormonal deficiency. The diagnosis is made based on a blood test for progesterone in the second phase of the cycle. If its values ​​are reduced, then the gynecologist usually prescribes a progesterone substitute: utrozhestan or duphaston. These drugs are taken strictly after ovulation. If pregnancy occurs, use continues until 10-12 weeks. Abrupt withdrawal of progesterone in the second phase during pregnancy can lead to the threat of termination of pregnancy.

Particular attention should be paid to charts with a short second phase. If the second phase is shorter than 10 days, then one can also judge that the second phase is insufficient.

Situations when the basal temperature remains elevated for more than 14 days occur during pregnancy, the formation of an ovarian corpus luteum cyst, as well as during an acute inflammatory process of the pelvic organs.

Estrogen-progesterone deficiency

If, in combination with low temperature in the second phase, your chart shows a slight rise in temperature (0.2-0.3 C) after ovulation, then such a curve may indicate not only a lack of progesterone, but also a lack of the hormone estrogen.

Hyperprolactinemia

Due to an increase in the level of the pituitary hormone, prolactin, which is responsible for maintaining pregnancy and lactation, the basal temperature graph in this case may resemble the graph of a pregnant woman. Menstruation, just like during pregnancy, may be absent. An example of a basal temperature chart for hyperprolactinemia

Basal temperature chart for ovulation stimulation

When ovulation is stimulated, in particular by clomiphene (clostilbegit) with the use of duphaston in the second phase of the cycle, the basal temperature graph, as a rule, becomes “normal” - two-phase, with a pronounced phase transition, with quite high temperature in the second phase, with characteristic “steps” (the temperature rises 2 times) and a slight drop. If the temperature graph during stimulation, on the contrary, is disrupted and deviates from normal, this may indicate an incorrect selection of the dose of drugs or an inappropriate stimulation scenario (other medications may be needed). An increase in temperature in the first phase upon stimulation with clomiphene also occurs with individual sensitivity to the drug.

Special cases of basal temperature chart

Low or high temperature in both phases, provided that the temperature difference is at least 0.4 degrees, is not a pathology. This individual feature body. The measurement method can also affect the temperature values. Typically, with an oral measurement, the basal temperature is 0.2 degrees lower than with a rectal or vaginal measurement.

When to contact a gynecologist?

If you strictly follow the rules for measuring temperature and observe the described problems on your basal temperature chart in at least 2 cycles in a row, consult a doctor for additional examinations. Beware of your gynecologist making diagnoses based solely on charts. What you need to pay attention to:

anovulatory schedules
regular delays cycle without pregnancy
late ovulation and failure to become pregnant for several cycles
controversial charts with unclear ovulation
graphs with high temperature throughout the cycle
graphs with low temperature throughout the cycle
schedules with a short (less than 10 days) second phase
graphs with high temperature in the second phase of the cycle for more than 18 days, without the onset of menstruation and negative test for pregnancy
unexplained bleeding or heavy discharge in the middle of the cycle
heavy menstruation lasting more than 5 days
graphs with a temperature difference in the first and second phases of less than 0.4 degrees
cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
charts with clearly defined ovulation, regular intercourse during ovulation and no pregnancy occurring for several cycles

Signs of probable infertility according to the basal temperature chart:

The average value of the second phase of the cycle (after the temperature rise) exceeds the average value of the first phase by less than 0.4°C.
In the second phase of the cycle, there are temperature drops (the temperature drops below 37°C).
The rise in temperature in the middle of the cycle continues for more than 3 to 4 days.
The second phase is short (less than 8 days).

Determining pregnancy by basal temperature

The method of determining pregnancy by basal temperature works provided there is ovulation in the cycle, since with some health problems the basal temperature can be elevated for an arbitrarily long time, and menstruation may be absent. A striking example Such a disorder is hyperprolactinemia, caused by increased production of the hormone prolactin by the pituitary gland. Prolactin is responsible for maintaining pregnancy and lactation and is normally elevated only during pregnancy and lactation (see Examples of graphs for normal conditions and various disorders).

Fluctuations in basal temperature different phases menstrual cycle due to different levels hormones responsible for phases 1 and 2.

During menstruation, basal temperature is always elevated (about 37.0 and above). In the first phase of the cycle (follicular) before ovulation, the basal temperature is low, up to 37.0 degrees.

Before ovulation, basal temperature decreases, and immediately after ovulation it increases by 0.4 - 0.5 degrees and remains elevated until the next menstruation.

In women with different lengths of the menstrual cycle, the duration of the follicular phase is different, and the length of the luteal (second) phase of the cycle is approximately the same and does not exceed 12-14 days. Thus, if the basal temperature after the jump (which indicates ovulation) remains elevated for more than 14 days, this clearly indicates pregnancy.

This method of determining pregnancy works provided there is ovulation in the cycle, since with some health problems the basal temperature can be elevated for an arbitrarily long time, and menstruation may be absent. A striking example of such a disorder is hyperprolactinemia, caused by increased production of the hormone prolactin by the pituitary gland. Prolactin is responsible for maintaining pregnancy and lactation and is normally elevated only during pregnancy and lactation.

If a woman is pregnant, then menstruation will not occur and the temperature will remain elevated throughout pregnancy. A decrease in basal temperature during pregnancy may indicate a lack of hormones that maintain pregnancy and the threat of its termination.

When pregnancy occurs, in most cases, implantation occurs 7-10 days after ovulation - the introduction of a fertilized egg into the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus). IN in rare cases early (before 7 days) or late (after 10 days) implantation is observed. Unfortunately, it is impossible to reliably determine the presence or absence of implantation either on the basis of a chart or with the help of ultrasound at an appointment with a gynecologist. However, there are several signs that may indicate implantation has taken place. All these signs can be detected 7-10 days after ovulation:

It is possible that these days there are small discharge, which pass within 1-2 days. This may be so-called implantation bleeding. When the egg implants into the inner lining of the uterus, the endometrium is damaged, which leads to minor discharge. But if you experience regular discharge in the middle of the cycle, and pregnancy does not occur, then you should contact a gynecology center.

A sharp decrease in temperature to the midline level for one day in the second phase, the so-called implantation retraction. This is one of the signs most often observed in charts with confirmed pregnancy. This retraction can occur for two reasons. Firstly, the production of the hormone progesterone, which is responsible for raising the temperature, begins to decrease from the middle of the second phase; with pregnancy, its production resumes again, which leads to temperature fluctuations. Secondly, during pregnancy, the hormone estrogen is released, which in turn lowers the temperature. The combination of these two hormonal shifts leads to the appearance of implantation retraction on the graph.

Your graph has become three-phase, which means that you see a rise in temperature on the graph, similar to ovulation, during the second phase of the cycle. This rise is again due to the increased production of the hormone progesterone after implantation.

The example graph shows implantation retraction on the 21st day of the cycle and the presence of the third phase, starting from the 26th day of the cycle.

Such early signs pregnancy, such as nausea, chest tightness, frequent urination, intestinal upset or just the feeling of pregnancy also do not provide an accurate answer. You may not be pregnant if you have all of these signs, or you may be pregnant without any symptoms.

All these signs can be a confirmation of pregnancy, but you should not rely on them, since there are many examples in which the signs were present, but pregnancy did not occur. Or, conversely, when pregnancy occurred there were no signs. The most reliable conclusions can be drawn if there is a clear rise in temperature on your chart, you had sexual intercourse 1-2 days before or during ovulation, and your temperature remains high 14 days after ovulation. In this case, the time has come to take a pregnancy test, which will finally confirm your expectations.

Measuring basal temperature is one of the main methods of tracking fertility, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). You can read more about this in the WHO document “Medical eligibility criteria for the use of contraceptive methods” page 117.

When you use the basal temperature method to protect against unwanted pregnancy, you need to take into account that not only the days of ovulation according to the basal temperature schedule can be dangerous. Therefore, during the period from the beginning of menstruation until the evening of the 3rd day after the rise in basal temperature, which occurs after ovulation, it is better to use additional measures to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Our regular reader, Natalya Gorshkova, has compiled a form for you to quickly fill out and automatically plot your basal temperature chart, which you can print out and show to your doctor. You can download it from the link: schedule form.

The charts are discussed on the forum

Attention! Making any diagnoses based solely on basal temperature charts is impossible. Diagnoses are made based on additional examinations performed by a gynecologist.

The Basal Temperature (BT) method is one way to track fertile days which are considered most favorable for conception. Many women use it successfully when planning pregnancy. It is also interesting because it can determine the presence or absence of ovulation, evaluate the functioning of the ovaries, suggest a possible pregnancy a few days after ovulation, and also monitor its development for the first 12-14 weeks.

What is basal temperature

Basal temperature is the temperature measured with a thermometer orally, vaginally, or, most often, rectally (in the rectum) at rest after a night's sleep. During the menstrual cycle, body temperature changes under the influence of certain hormones.

In the first phase of the cycle (follicular), from the end of menstruation until the beginning of ovulation, estrogen hormones predominate in the body. During this period, the egg matures. The average basal temperature of the first phase is in the range of 36 - 36.5C. And its duration depends on the time of maturation of the egg. For some it may take 10 days to ripen, for others it may take 20.

The day before ovulation, the BT value for one day decreases by 0.2-0.3 C. And during ovulation itself, when the mature egg leaves the follicle and enters the body large number hormone progesterone, BT in one or two days should make a jump by 0.4-0.6 C, reach 37.0-37.2 C and stay within these limits throughout the luteal phase.

During the ovulation period, the dominant role of hormones changes (estrogens give way to progesterone). The most successful period for conception is considered to be 3-4 days before ovulation (sperm viability time) and 12-24 hours after ovulation. If during this period the egg does not fuse with the sperm, it dies.

The second, luteal phase, occurs under the influence of the hormone progesterone. It is produced by the corpus luteum, which appears at the site of a burst follicle. The luteal phase lasts from 12 to 16 days. BT throughout the entire phase remains above 37.0 C, and if pregnancy has not occurred, a day or two before the start of menstruation, it decreases by 0.2-0.3 C. During menstruation, expulsion from the body of an unfertilized egg along with the endometrial layer that is unnecessary in this cycle.

It is believed that normally the difference between the average values ​​of the two phases of the menstrual cycle should be at least 0.4 C.

How to measure basal temperature correctly

According to the rules, basal temperature is measured in the morning, at the same time (a deviation of 20-30 minutes is allowed), without getting out of bed, avoiding sudden movements. Therefore, you need to prepare a thermometer - shake it off and put it near the bed - in the evening.

If you have chosen any method of measuring basal temperature, for example, rectal, you must adhere to it throughout the entire cycle. The thermometer is held for 5-7 minutes. It is better to start measuring temperature from the sixth day after the first day of menstruation.

Data can be written down on a piece of paper, and then, by connecting the dots, you can get a graph. Or keep charts on the Internet. There are special programs for this that are convenient to use. The most difficult thing that will need to be done is to correctly measure BT and enter the indicators into a spreadsheet. Next, the program itself will calculate the time when ovulation occurred (if it occurred), draw a graph, and calculate the temperature difference between the two phases.

If you had to get out of bed at night, you should measure BT after 5-6 hours. Otherwise, the indicators will be uninformative and can not be taken into account that day. It is also worth not taking into account days when you were sick and your body temperature was increased.

It would be much easier if you could measure simple body temperature rather than basal temperature. The difficulty is that the body’s temperature during the day can change due to stress, cold, heat, physical activity, etc. Therefore, it is very difficult to catch a period when body temperature would be informative. Therefore, it was decided to measure basal temperature - after 5-6 hours of sleep at rest.

Basal temperature during pregnancy

As mentioned above, the most favorable period for conception is a few days before and one day after ovulation. If pregnancy has occurred, the corpus luteum will produce progesterone up to 12-14 weeks. The basal temperature will remain above 37C all this time; it will not fall before the days of menstruation.

Some women stop measuring BT when they become pregnant. It is not recommended to do this, because... BT during this period is very informative and allows you to control pregnancy.

When pregnancy occurs, BT remains above 37C, the permissible deviation is 0.1-0.3C. If BT values ​​fall below normal for several days in a row in the first 12-14 weeks, it is likely that the embryo is at risk. Progesterone deficiency may be present. You should immediately consult a doctor to take appropriate measures. It would not be a bad idea to be examined using an ultrasound machine.

If BT has risen above 38C, this also does not bode well. May indicate the presence of infections in a woman’s body or the beginning of inflammatory processes. It is not worth drawing conclusions based on a one-time decrease or increase in BT, because Perhaps errors were made when measuring it, or extraneous factors influenced the value - stress, general condition body, etc.

After 12-14 weeks, you can no longer measure your basal temperature, because the indicators are not informative, because by this time the hormonal background of the pregnant woman changes. The mature placenta begins to produce progesterone, and the corpus luteum fades into the background.

Basal temperature chart during pregnancy

If you record your basal temperature readings on paper, or keep a chart on the Internet, you can pay attention to certain signs that signal that pregnancy has occurred:

- on days 5-10 (usually 7) after ovulation, BT decreases by 0.3-0.5 C for one day. What is called implantation retraction occurs. At this time, the embryo first tries to penetrate the endometrium of the uterus, i.e. find a place and settle down. Often during this period, women notice minor bleeding for 1-2 days, which is called implantation bleeding. Sometimes it looks more like a cream or light brown daub;

— the temperature of the second phase tends to above 37C;

- before the expected critical days, the basal temperature does not fall, but rises by 0.2-0.3 C, this is highlighted on the graph as the third phase;

— critical days did not arrive on time, BT continues to remain at a high level for more than 16 days after ovulation. You can do the first test and see the result. It is likely that it will show two stripes.

Don't be upset if your schedule doesn't look like a classic pregnant one. There are charts that make it impossible to determine the signs of pregnancy, but it has occurred nonetheless.

Increased or decreased basal temperature

Ideal schedule The BT should look like a flying bird with outstretched wings. The temperature difference between the two parts should be at least 0.4 C. Sometimes there are deviations from the ideal, which may indicate certain problems in the woman’s body.

If the readings of the second phase of the cycle are normal, and the readings of the first phase are above normal, this indicates estrogen deficiency. And if it is significantly lower than normal, then on the contrary, there is an excess of estrogen. Which is one of the causes of infertility. Only in the first case does this indicate thin endometrium, and in the second – about the existence follicular cysts.

If the values ​​of the first phase are normal, and the values ​​of the second phase are below normal, this indicates a lack of progesterone (pregnancy hormone). In this case, pregnancy may occur, but not be maintained. Therefore, to correct the situation, medications containing progesterone are prescribed, which should be taken strictly under the supervision of a doctor.

If both phases of the cycle are higher or lower than normal, but the difference between the average temperatures remains at least 0.4 C, in this case there are no pathologies or deviations in health. This is how the individual characteristics of the body manifest themselves.

Although the BBT measurement method is simple and accessible for determining pregnancy or diagnosing health, it should not be the only factor for diagnosis. Therefore, it must be combined with other methods. For example, to determine ovulation, you can additionally use test strips or ultrasound monitoring, to confirm pregnancy you can donate blood for hCG or test, and to diagnose health problems, take into account laboratory data.