Graphs of basal temperatures 3 cycles. Examples of basal temperature charts with decoding
Basal temperature - This resting body temperature after at least 6 hours of sleep. In different phases of the menstrual cycle, the basal temperature in a woman is constantly changing under the influence of hormonal changes in the female body.
Measurement of basal body temperature BT - a simple functional test that every woman can learn at home. The method is based on the hyperthermic (temperature) effect of progesterone on the thermoregulatory center located in the hypothalamus.
Why you need a basal temperature chart
By drawing up a graph of fluctuations in basal temperature, you can absolutely accurately predict not only the phase of the menstrual cycle at the moment, but also suspect possible deviations from the norm. Let's list what exactly you might need basal body temperature measurement skill in everyday life:
1. If you want to get pregnant and cannot predict when ovulation occurs - a favorable moment for conceiving a child - the release of a mature egg capable of fertilization from the ovarian follicle into the abdominal cavity;
or vice versa - you do not want to get pregnant, thanks to the basal temperature (BT) you can predict “dangerous days”.
2. To determine pregnancy in the early stages with a delay in menstruation.
3. With regular measurement of basal temperature, you can determine the possible reason for the delay in menstruation: pregnancy, lack of ovulation or late ovulation.
4. If your gynecologist suspects that you have hormonal disorders, you or your partner is infertile: if after one year of regular intercourse pregnancy has not occurred, the gynecologist may recommend that you measure your basal body temperature (BT) to determine the possible causes of infertility.
5. If you want to plan the gender of your unborn child.
How to measure basal temperature (BT) correctly
As you can see, the correct measurement of basal temperature (BT) helps to answer many important questions. Most women know why they need to measure basal temperature (BT), but few know how to properly conduct a study. Let's try to deal with this issue.
Firstly, you need to immediately understand for yourself that no matter what the obtained indicators of basal temperature (BT) are, this is not a reason for self-diagnosis, and even more so for self-treatment. Only a qualified gynecologist should deal with the interpretation of basal temperature charts.
Secondly, there is no need to draw any fleeting conclusions - basal body temperature (BT) needs at least 3 menstrual cycles to more or less accurately answer questions - when do you ovulate, do you have hormonal disorders, etc. d.
Basic rules for measuring basal temperature (BT)
1. It is necessary to measure basal temperature (BT) from the first day of the menstrual cycle (from the first day of menstruation), otherwise the graph will not reflect the full dynamics of changes.
2. You can measure basal temperature (BT) in the mouth, in the vagina or in the anus, the latter is more preferable. Many gynecologists believe that it is the rectal method that is more reliable and gives fewer errors than all the others. In the mouth, you need to measure the temperature for about 5 minutes, in the vagina and in the rectum for about 3 minutes.
If you measured your basal temperature (BT) in one place, then the location of the thermometer and the duration of the measurement cannot be changed the next time you take a measurement. Today in the mouth, tomorrow in the vagina, and the day after tomorrow in the rectum - such variations are not appropriate and can lead to false diagnosis. Underarm basal temperature (BT) cannot be measured!
3. It is necessary to measure the basal temperature (BT) at the same time, preferably in the morning, immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed.
4. Always use the same thermometer - digital or mercury. If using mercury, be sure to shake well before use.
5. Write down the results immediately, while making notes if there was something on that day or the day before that could affect the basal temperature (BT) indicators: alcohol intake, flight, stress, acute respiratory infections, inflammatory diseases, increased physical activity , sexual intercourse the night before or in the morning, taking medications - sleeping pills, hormones, psychotropic drugs, etc. All these factors can affect the basal temperature and make the study unreliable.
When taking oral contraceptives, measuring BBT does not make any sense!
Thus, in order to make a complete chart of basal body temperature (BT) fluctuations, you will need to label the indicators:
- date of the calendar month;
- day of the menstrual cycle;
- indicators of basal temperature;
- the nature of the discharge from the genital tract on a certain day of the cycle: bloody, mucous, viscous, watery, with yellowness, dry, etc. It is important to note this for the sake of completeness on the chart, as the discharge from the cervical canal becomes more watery during ovulation;
- notes as necessary by a certain day: we enter there all the provoking factors listed above, which may affect the change in BT. For example: I took alcohol the day before, didn’t sleep well or had sex in the morning before the measurement, etc. Notes must be made, even insignificant ones, otherwise the resulting graphs will not correspond to reality.
Generally speaking, your basal temperature records should look like this in a table:
Date Day mts BT Highlights Notes
5 July 13th 36.2 Watery, transparent Drank wine the day before
July 6 14th 36.3 viscous, transparent _________
July 7 15th 36.5 white, viscous _________
Normal basal temperature chart
Before you start drawing up a schedule for basal temperature (BT), you need to know how the basal temperature should normally change under the influence of hormones?
The menstrual cycle in a woman is divided into 2 phases: follicular (hypothermic) and luteal (hyperthermic). In the first phase, the follicle develops, from which the egg is subsequently released. In the same phase, the ovaries intensively produce estrogens. During the follicular phase, BT is below 37 degrees. Then ovulation occurs - in the middle of 2 phases - approximately on the 12-16th day of the menstrual cycle. On the eve of ovulation, BBT drops sharply. Further, during and immediately after ovulation, progesterone is released and BT rises by 0.4-0.6 degrees, which is a reliable sign of ovulation. The second phase - luteal, or it is also called the corpus luteum phase - lasts about 14 days, and if conception does not occur, it ends with menstruation. In the phase of the corpus luteum, very important processes take place - a balance is maintained between low levels of estrogen and high levels of progesterone - thus the corpus luteum prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. In this phase, the basal body temperature (BT) is usually kept at around 37 degrees and above. On the eve of menstruation and in the first days of the cycle, the basal body temperature (BT) again drops by about 0.3 degrees and everything starts anew. That is, normally, every healthy woman should have fluctuations in basal temperature (BT) - if there are no ups and downs, then we can talk about the absence of ovulation, and as a result, infertility.
Consider examples of basal temperature (BT) graphs, as they should be in normal and pathological conditions. The basal temperature (BT) graph that you see below reflects two normal physiological states that a healthy woman can have: 1-lilac curve - basal temperature (BT), which should be during a normal menstrual cycle, ending with menstruation; 2 - light green curve - basal temperature (BT) of a woman with a normal menstrual cycle, we will end in pregnancy. The black line is the ovulation line. The burgundy line is a mark of 37 degrees, it serves for visualization of the graph.
Now let's try to decipher this chart of basal temperature. Please note that a mandatory sign of basal temperature (BT) is normally a two-phase menstrual cycle - that is, both the hypothermic and hyperthermic phases should always be clearly visible on the graph. In the first phase, basal temperature (BT) can range from 36.2 to 36.7 degrees. We observe these fluctuations on this chart from days 1-11 of the cycle. Further, on the 12th day, BBT drops sharply by 0.2 degrees, which is a harbinger of the onset of ovulation. On the 13-14th day, a rise is visible immediately after the fall - ovulation occurs. Further, in the second phase, the basal temperature (BT) continues to rise by 0.4-0.6 degrees compared to the first phase - in this case, up to 37 degrees and this temperature (marked with a burgundy line) is kept until the end of the menstrual cycle and before the start menstruation falls - on the 25th day of the cycle. On the 28th day of the cycle, the line breaks, which means that the cycle has ended and a new menstrual cycle has begun. But another option is also possible - the light green line, as you can see, does not fall, but continues to grow to 37.1. This means that a woman with a light green line on the basal temperature (BT) chart is most likely pregnant. False-positive results of measuring basal temperature (an increase in basal temperature in the absence of a corpus luteum) can occur with acute and chronic infections, as well as with some changes in the higher parts of the central nervous system.
Important to know when charting your basal temperature!
1. Normally, the menstrual cycle in a healthy woman is from 21 to 35 days, most often 28-30 days, as in the graph. However, for some women, the cycle may be shorter than 21 days, or vice versa, longer than 35. This is a reason to contact a gynecologist. Maybe it's ovarian dysfunction.
2. The graph of basal temperature (BT) should always clearly reflect ovulation, which divides the first and second phases. Always immediately after the preovulatory temperature drop in the middle of the cycle, a woman ovulates - on the chart this is the 14th day, marked with a black line. Therefore, the most optimal time for conception is the day of ovulation and 2 days before it. Using this chart as an example, the most favorable days for conception will be days 12, 13 and 14 of the cycle. And one more nuance: you may not detect a preovulatory decrease in basal temperature (BT) immediately before ovulation, but only see an increase - there is nothing to worry about, most likely ovulation has already begun.
3. The length of the first phase can normally change, lengthen or shorten. But the length of the second phase should not vary normally and is approximately 14 days (plus or minus 1-2 days). If you notice that the second phase is shorter than 10 days, this may be a sign of insufficiency of the second phase and requires a consultation with a gynecologist. In a healthy woman, the duration of the 1st and 2nd phases should normally be approximately the same, for example, 14 + 14 or 15 + 14, or 13 + 14, and so on.
4. Pay attention to the temperature difference between the averages of the first and second phases of the graph. If the difference is less than 0.4 degrees, this may be a sign of hormonal disorders. You need to be examined by a gynecologist - take a blood test for progesterone and estrogen. In approximately 20% of cases, such a monophasic graph of BT-basal temperature without a significant temperature difference between the phases is a variant of the norm, and in such patients the hormones are normal.
5. If you have a delay in menstruation, and the hyperthermic (increased) basal temperature of BT lasts more than 18 days, this may indicate a possible pregnancy (light green line on the graph). If menstruation nevertheless came, but the discharge is rather meager and at the same time the basal temperature of BT is still elevated, you urgently need to contact a gynecologist and take a pregnancy test. Most likely - these are signs of a miscarriage that has begun.
6. If the basal temperature of BT in the first phase rose sharply for 1 day, then fell - this is not a sign of concern. This is possible under the influence of provoking factors that affect changes in basal temperature (BT).
Now let's look at examples of BT basal temperature charts for various gynecological pathologies:
The graph is monophasic, i.e. almost without significant temperature fluctuations of the curve. If the rise in basal temperature (BT) in the second phase is mild (0.1-0.3 C) after ovulation, then these are possible signs of a lack of hormones - progesterone and estrogen. You need to take a blood test for these hormones.
If ovulation does not occur and the corpus luteum produced by progesterone does not form, then the basal temperature (BT) curve is monotonous: there are no pronounced jumps or falls - ovulation does not occur, respectively, and a woman with such a basal temperature (BT) schedule cannot become pregnant. An anovulatory cycle is normal in a healthy woman if such a cycle occurs no more than once a year. Accordingly, during pregnancy and lactation, the absence of ovulation is also the norm. If all of the above does not apply to you and this situation is repeated from cycle to cycle, you definitely need to contact a gynecologist. Your doctor will prescribe hormone therapy for you.
The basal temperature of BT rises a few days before the end of the cycle due to hormonal deficiency and does not decrease immediately before menstruation, there is no characteristic preovulatory retraction. The second phase lasts less than 10 days. It is possible to get pregnant with such a schedule of basal temperature (BT), but there is a high probability of miscarriage. We remember that the hormone progesterone is normally produced in the second phase. If the hormone is not synthesized in sufficient quantities, then BT rises very slowly, and the pregnancy may be terminated. With such a schedule of basal temperature (BT), it is necessary to pass an analysis for progesterone in the second phase of the cycle. If progesterone is lowered, then hormonal preparations - gestagens (Utrozhestan or Duphaston) are necessarily prescribed in the second phase. Pregnant women with low progesterone are prescribed these drugs for up to 12 weeks. With a sharp withdrawal of drugs, a miscarriage may occur.
In the first phase, the basal temperature of BT under the influence of estrogens is kept within 36.2-36.7 C. If the basal temperature of BT in the first phase rises above the indicated mark and if you see sharp jumps and rises on the graph, then most likely there is a lack of estrogens. In the second phase, we see the same picture - ups and downs. On the graph, in the first phase, the basal temperature of BT rises to 36.8 C, i.e. above the norm. In the second phase, there are sharp fluctuations from 36.2 to 37 C (but with a similar pathology they can be higher). Fertility in these patients is drastically reduced. For the purpose of treatment, gynecologists prescribe hormone therapy. Seeing such a graph, there is no need to rush to draw conclusions - such a picture can also be observed in inflammatory gynecological diseases, when everything is in order with estrogens, for example, with inflammation of the appendages. The chart is shown below.
You can see on this graph with sharp ups and downs that, due to the inflammatory process, it is problematic to determine when ovulation occurred, since the basal temperature of BT can increase both during inflammation and during ovulation. On the 9th day of the cycle, we see a rise, which can be mistaken for an ovulatory rise, but this is most likely a sign of an inflammatory process that has begun. This basal temperature (BT) chart proves once again that it is impossible to draw conclusions and make diagnoses based on the basal temperature (BT) chart of one cycle.
We remember that at the beginning of the menstrual cycle, the basal temperature of BT is lowered. If the temperature at the end of the previous cycle decreased, and then rose sharply to 37.0 with the onset of menstruation and does not decrease, as can be seen on the graph, it may be a formidable disease - endometritis and you urgently need treatment from a gynecologist. But if you have a delay in menstruation and at the same time the basal temperature of BBT remains elevated for more than 16 days from the start of the rise, you are probably pregnant.
If you notice that during 3 menstrual cycles you have stable changes on the chart that do not correspond to the norm, you need to consult a specialist.
So, what should alert you when compiling and deciphering basal temperature (BT) charts:
Graphs of basal temperature (BT) with low or high temperature throughout the cycle;
- cycles less than 21 days and more than 35 days. This may be a sign of ovarian dysfunction, clinically manifested by bleeding in the middle of the menstrual cycle. Or there may be a different picture - the cycle is always lengthened, which is expressed in constant delays in menstruation for more than 10 days, while there is no pregnancy;
- if you observe a shortening of the second phase according to the charts;
- if the schedules are anovulatory or the manifestations of ovulation are not clearly expressed on the schedule;
- graphs with high temperature in the second phase for more than 18 days, while there is no pregnancy;
- monophasic graphs: the difference between the first and second phase is less than 0.4 C;
- if the BT schedules are absolutely normal: ovulation occurs, both phases are complete, but pregnancy does not occur within a year with regular unprotected intercourse;
- sharp jumps and rises in BT in both phases of the cycle.
If you follow all the rules for measuring basal temperature, you will discover a lot of new things. Always remember that you do not need to draw any conclusions on the basis of the obtained graphs. This can only be done by a qualified gynecologist, and then only after additional research.
Obstetrician-gynecologist, Ph.D. Christina Frambos.
Measurement of basal temperature is quite often used by women as a method of determining the date of ovulation in order to choose the optimal time for conception, as well as to monitor their menstrual cycle. In our article, we will consider which basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle is the norm, and how its values \u200b\u200bchange in different situations.
Temperature standards
Properly made measurements and a well-designed schedule help to notice a failure in the body in time when comparing indicators with the standard.
Basal temperature 36.2- 36.5°
In the first half of the cyclic period, the values \u200b\u200bare kept at around 36.2-36.5 ° C due to estrogen. On the eve of ovulation, there is a decrease, and then an increase within 3 days to a mark of 37.0 ° C or slightly higher.
Basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle 37.0 to 37.5 ° C
In the second period, the level of progesterone produced by the corpus luteum begins to rise. This hormone maintains an optimal environment for fertilization and pregnancy development and ensures that the basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle is in an elevated state in the range from 37.0 to 37.5 ° C, as nature intended for the normal course of the childbearing process.
These numbers decrease on the eve of the next menstruation, and in the case of conception, they continue to stay at the same level. A shift to one side or the other indicates a problem with the fetus.
Scheduled conception confirmation
When intercourse took place during ovulation and a woman registers an increased basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle, and does not fall on the eve and after the delay, this is the first assumption of a successful pregnancy.
Symptoms and signs
A test will help to establish this fact, which in such a situation will show clear two stripes, as well as the addition of other signs:
- Nausea;
- Change in taste preferences;
- Change of mood;
- Enlargement and soreness of the mammary glands.
The fall in basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle
Examining the graph, in some women you can see a slight drop in basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle, marked on days 7-10. This phenomenon indicates the attachment of the fetal egg to the endometrial layer. This is how many days the embryo needs to reach the uterus after fertilization.
Embryo implantation causes a decrease in thermometer readings by a few tenths of a degree for just a day, then the numbers again take their original value and continue to stay almost at the same level. This phenomenon is individual and not every woman can mark it on her curve. Sometimes the process proceeds quite smoothly, without visible fluctuations.
Graph decline after fertilization
Low basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle
A low basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle, with its value less than 36.9 ° C, indicates a missed pregnancy. This means that the fetus has stopped developing due to some reasons caused by:
- infectious diseases;
- Problems with the uterus (endometriosis, fibroids);
- Underdevelopment of the embryo;
- Diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease;
- Hormonal disorders, lack of progesterone;
- The age of the future mother is over 30 years old.
The disappearance of pregnancy symptoms will be an indirect sign of an ongoing deviation. This situation requires medical intervention. With timely action, the fetus can be saved.
High basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle
The output of the thermometer readings beyond 37.0-37.5 ° C indicates a deviation either in the health of the mother or a problem with the development of the child.
But an even higher basal temperature is possible in the second phase of the cycle - up to 38.0 ° C. High rates indicate an inflammatory process in the body caused by an infection in the genitals, and possibly an ectopic pregnancy. With it, a rupture of the place of attachment of the fetal egg, for example, the fallopian tube, occurs, which is accompanied by bleeding into the abdominal cavity, and this causes an increase in temperature.
An unnoticed missed abortion may also show an increase in the graph when the decomposition of the deceased fetus begins. First, there is a decrease in the numbers on the chart, then an increase, but already to high values. This organism is struggling with intoxication caused by decay products of fetal tissues.
The basal temperature of the second phase of the cycle of 37 ° C and a little higher is considered normal. Even if conception has not occurred, such temperature values \u200b\u200bare kept until menstruation, then they decrease. An increase in indicators during them, provided that conception is impossible, speaks of endometriosis, inflammation of the uterine mucosa.
Conclusion
A delay in critical days and a non-falling basal temperature in the second phase of the cycle are sure signs of pregnancy, especially if there are other signs of an interesting situation. The temperature figures of the second period do not have a clearly established standard. Each woman has her own indicators during ovulation and during the onset of pregnancy.
One can mark in the graph numbers from 37.0 and not higher than 37.3 ° C, while the other values \u200b\u200bare characteristic of 37.3-37.5 ° C. The main thing is that they do not go beyond the boundaries indicated by statistics, either upwards or downwards.
Basal body temperature (BT) is the lowest body temperature measured at rest. Determining the level of basal temperature allows you to predict the onset of ovulation and determine pregnancy at its earliest stages. The technique is also included in the scheme of natural regulation of conception and is used to detect various gynecological diseases.
Measurement Rules
When determining the basal temperature, certain rules must be followed, otherwise the data obtained may be misinterpreted:
- BT is determined only in the rectum. Measurement of temperature under the armpit or in the mouth does not give reliable results.
- Measurements are taken in the morning, without getting out of bed, before any physical activity. For convenience, keep a thermometer handy.
- Before starting the study, at least 4 hours of restful uninterrupted sleep should pass.
- Measurement of BT is carried out with an electronic thermometer - the same. You can use a mercury thermometer, but with great care.
- The study should take place at approximately the same time of day. Deviations of 30-60 minutes in any direction are allowed.
- The study time is at least 5 minutes.
- There is no break during menstruation.
The data obtained is entered daily into a table. In the future, on the basis of the results obtained, it will be possible to draw certain conclusions. To assess the menstrual cycle and identify gynecological pathology, it is recommended to measure basal temperature for at least 3 consecutive months. It is advisable to start the study on the first day of the menstrual cycle (i.e. the first day of menstruation).
Is it possible to measure basal temperature during the day? Yes, after 4 hours of sleep. Unfortunately, such results are often unreliable, so it is not recommended to rely on them. If a woman works on a night shift, she can conduct research during the day, provided that this is her usual, practically unchanged regime of work and rest for many months.
Indications for measuring basal temperature
The study is carried out in such situations:
- Menstrual disorders (if you suspect an imbalance of hormones).
- Diagnosis of pregnancy at an early stage.
- Determination of the time of ovulation.
- As part of the MCI (fertility recognition method as a natural method of contraception).
- Assessment of the hormonal background in some gynecological diseases (including infertility).
In most cases, the measurement of basal temperature is prescribed when planning pregnancy and identifying the causes of infertility. This examination will also be useful when looking for factors that lead to menstrual irregularities (delayed menstruation, lengthening or shortening of the cycle, etc.).
Measurement of basal temperature is not carried out in such situations:
- If a woman is not able to measure the temperature at about the same time (special work schedule, etc.).
- In the presence of acute inflammatory processes or exacerbation of chronic pathology, leading to an increase in overall body temperature.
In the latter case, the study will be non-informative. It is recommended to wait for recovery and only after that return to the measurement of basal temperature.
Important Aspects
There are factors that affect the level of basal temperature:
- poor sleep (frequent awakenings, the need to get up in bed at night);
- stress;
- diseases of the digestive tract (including diarrhea);
- ARVI (even without an increase in armpit temperature);
- alcohol intake;
- intimacy;
- long flights;
- change of time zones, climate;
- taking medications (including hormonal, sedative, sleeping pills).
All these factors should be noted in the table and taken into account when interpreting the results.
Basal temperature and menstrual cycle
Determination of basal temperature plays a big role in assessing a woman's menstrual cycle. Consider the change in parameters using the example of a normal 28-day female cycle.
The first (folliculin) phase of the menstrual cycle lasts from days 1 to 14 and is under the influence of estrogen. At this time, the follicles mature and the dominant one is isolated among them. The BT level during this period remains in the range from 36.1 to 36.7 °C.
Ovulation with a 28-day cycle occurs on the 13-14th day. The maturation and release of the egg coincides with the peak level of LH (luteinizing hormone). The day before ovulation, the basal temperature drops by 0.5 °C. Immediately at the time of ovulation, BBT rises again, reaches 37.0 - 37.4 ° C and remains at this level throughout the second phase of the cycle.
The second (luteal) phase takes place under the influence of progesterone. The endometrium grows, preparing for the possible implantation of the fetal egg. If fertilization does not occur, a corpus luteum forms at the site of the burst follicle. From days 14 to 28 of the cycle, the basal body temperature remains above 37.0 °C. The decrease in indicators occurs only before the menstruation itself, in 24-48 hours. During monthly bleeding, BBT remains low (from 36.1 to 36.7 ° C).
Basal temperature and pregnancy
If a child is conceived, the basal temperature remains high throughout the first trimester. It keeps at around 37.0 - 37.4 ° C, and only after 14 weeks begins to gradually decrease. In the II and III trimesters, the basal temperature is fixed within 36.4-36.7 °C.
An increase in basal temperature during pregnancy indicates the following conditions:
- inflammatory process in the appendages and uterus, pelvic organs, intestines;
- general infectious process.
A low level of basal temperature occurs in such situations:
- the threat of termination of pregnancy;
- a miscarriage that has begun;
- regressive pregnancy.
In all these situations, there is a decrease in the level of progesterone, which determines the change in basal temperature. Any deviations from the norm should be reported to the doctor.
Deciphering the results
With the correct measurement of basal temperature, a woman can find answers to the most important questions for herself:
- Is the menstrual cycle normal, and are there any deviations.
- Does the maturation of the follicles occur, is it worth expecting ovulation.
- Was there ovulation in this cycle, and on what day did it occur.
- Whether the conception of a child has occurred or the onset of menstruation should be expected (you can determine its arrival 24-48 hours before the onset of bleeding).
Deviations from the normal schedule make it possible to suspect endocrine pathology, suggest the causes of infertility and timely identify some complications that occur in the early stages of pregnancy.
Normal performance
To assess the menstrual cycle, it is necessary to chart the basal temperature for at least three months in a row. The graph is lined up on a sheet in a box. A coordinate axis is drawn, where the basal temperature indicators will be vertically, and the days of the cycle will be horizontally. Each day of the cycle will have its own mark on the graph - the level of basal temperature. At the bottom, under each day of the menstrual cycle, factors that could affect the temperature (stress, sexual intercourse, illness, etc.) must be indicated.
Normal indicators of the menstrual cycle:
- The total length of the cycle is 21-35 days (from the first day of one menstruation to the first day of another).
- The duration of the second phase of the cycle is always 12-14 days.
- The duration of the first phase of the cycle may vary. Its minimum duration is 7 days.
Normal values of basal temperature are presented in the table: 
Temperature curve options
There are several varieties of the schedule when measuring BT:
I type
Characteristics:
- There is a stable increase in BBT in the second phase of the cycle by at least 0.4 °C.
- There is a preovulatory and premenstrual decrease in BBT.
Such a schedule corresponds to a normal two-phase menstrual cycle (it was discussed in detail above).
II type
Characteristics:
- There is a slight increase in BBT in the second phase of the cycle: no more than 0.2-0.3 °C.
- The duration of the second phase is 12-14 days.
- There is a slight preovulatory and premenstrual decrease in BBT.
Such a schedule indicates estrogen-progesterone deficiency and requires a mandatory examination by a doctor. It is necessary to assess the level of major hormones in each phase of the cycle and find out the reason for such changes. This condition often leads to infertility.
III type
Characteristics:
- There is an increase in BBT in the second phase of the cycle shortly before the onset of menstruation by 0.4 °C.
- The second phase lasts less than 10 days.
- There is no premenstrual decrease in BBT.
Such a graph indicates insufficiency of the second phase of the cycle (luteal insufficiency) and indicates a low level of progesterone (absolute or relative with a high concentration of estrogen).
Possible reasons for the insufficiency of the second phase:
- Ovarian pathology: resistant or depleted ovary syndrome, ovarian hyperinhibition syndrome, polycystic ovaries, etc.
- Diseases of the thyroid gland.
- Pathology of the pituitary gland: hyperprolactinemia, pituitary hypogonadism.
- Organic diseases of the genital organs: endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine fibroids, polyps, tumors.
- Inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages: endometritis, salpingo-oophoritis.
- Pathology of other organs: hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, etc.
- Condition after abortion, curettage of the uterine cavity for other reasons.
- A sharp decrease in body weight (prolonged fasting, diets, diseases of the digestive tract).
- Strong stress.
- A sharp change in climate, time zones.
- Excessive physical activity.
- Taking narcotic drugs.
Insufficiency of the luteal phase threatens infertility or miscarriage. To correct this condition, it is necessary to find out the cause of the failure. According to the indications, hormonal therapy is carried out. During pregnancy, progesterone supplementation is needed.
IV type
A monotonous curve is noted on the graph: BT remains within 36.1 - 36.7 ° C throughout the entire cycle. There is no ovulation. Such a cycle is considered anovulatory.
The anovulatory cycle is a variant of the norm. It is believed that every healthy woman can have 1-2 cycles per year without ovulation. With age, the number of anovulatory cycles increases. During puberty and with the onset of menopause, most of the cycles pass without ovulation. It is impossible to conceive a child this month.
Frequent anovulatory cycles in a woman of reproductive age is a pathology. The cause may be various endocrine diseases, ovarian pathology, etc. For an accurate diagnosis and development of a treatment regimen, a complete examination by a gynecologist-endocrinologist is necessary.
V type
A chaotic temperature curve is observed. The range of indicators does not fit into any of the known options and does not lend itself to any logic. A similar schedule occurs with estrogen deficiency. The onset of pregnancy with estrogen deficiency is a big question.
A single chaotic schedule should not frighten a woman. Such a failure can occur during stress, climate change, exacerbation of various extragenital diseases. If the schedule returns to normal in the future, no treatment is required. A chaotic temperature curve for two or more months requires a mandatory examination by a specialist.
Measurement of basal temperature is a simple and affordable method for assessing the condition of the female reproductive system. Regular scheduling helps to predict the onset of ovulation and menstruation, detect pregnancy early and identify menstrual irregularities. Determining the level of basal temperature is practiced in the diagnosis of endocrine infertility and other gynecological diseases.
Every woman has probably heard such a term as "basal temperature". What it 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 more fully disclosed so that there are no white spots left in it. We will start with the definition, touch on the technique of measurement and plotting. In addition, I would like to consider how the basal temperature changes during pregnancy.
Basic knowledge
We will start from the very beginning, that is, with the definition of "basal temperature". What it is, now it will become clear. This is the temperature that is measured rectally. There are two points here that are important to consider. To obtain accurate and reliable information, measurements must be performed strictly at the same time and after a long rest. That is, the optimal time is considered to be at 6 o'clock in the morning, when you just woke up.
What are these indicators for? For hormonal analysis. Moreover, all changes due to biological factors and causes occur only locally, so putting a thermometer under the arm is pointless. There is one more thing to consider: if a person is overheated or sick, the basal temperature also changes. It is needless to add that this may cause data distortion.
It needs to be known
Why will you conduct research? By itself, performing a single measurement does not give anything. But the totality of data for several months allows you 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 goes, 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 taken, and not at all by your own. Moreover, their action is aimed at ensuring that the eggs do not mature. Therefore, no matter how long you build charts, the basal temperature will always be the same. That this is completely uninformative, you have already guessed yourself.
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 for a thermometer. That is, we set an alarm clock within reach and, as soon as we open our eyes, we measure. Only in this case, the indicators can be considered informative. Once again, we emphasize that the body must be at rest. Do not stretch or sit up in bed, nor should you throw back the covers. Just bend your legs slightly and insert the tip of the thermometer into the anus. You need to lie still for about 5 minutes.
After that, lay it out on a pre-prepared napkin and you can safely fill 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 little. The result obtained must be immediately entered in a notebook, but it is better to immediately transfer it 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 content, but also confuses. It turns out a huge array 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. It is almost impossible to find the optimal time for measurement during the day.
Plotting
Most often, women begin to take measurements in order to track ovulation and not guard the onset of pregnancy. The basal temperature during early pregnancy really changes a lot. As we said above, you cannot say anything until you have accumulated information for several months. Only then will you be able to visually assess the cyclicity and determine which of the peaks accounts for ovulation. 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 to additionally use other methods of contraception. The basal temperature during pregnancy in the early stages rises sharply, after which it stays at about 37.2 for some time.
Technical subtleties
So let's get down to practice. You will need a checkered notebook, a pen and a thermometer, preferably digital, not mercury, so as not to be afraid to accidentally break it when you wake up. Prepare the coordinate axes in advance. The number of the day of the cycle is plotted on the horizontal axis. There are some nuances here. The countdown should be carried out from the first day of menstruation. Taking it as a starting point, you will create the most accurate graph. On one axis, you will be posting your measurements daily. It is important to maintain an accuracy of up to 0.1 degrees.
What allows you to see the graph
Basal temperature readings should be recorded daily. Miss just one day, and reliable information will no longer work. In a couple of months it will be necessary to reliably determine:
Graph fluctuations are normal
It is important to be able not only to build, but also to read the chart 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 the indicators of a healthy woman, any disease can distort information.
From the first day of the cycle, BBT goes down. From an indicator of 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 leaves. It is at this time that the temperature slowly rises to 37.1-37.3 degrees for 3-4 days. It is this long, smooth rise that you will see on the vertical axis.
After that comes the most stable period, the line goes at the same level throughout the 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 fix the indicators that were at the beginning of the cycle (36.9). The basal temperature during early pregnancy remains stably high, this characteristic decrease is not observed.
Waiting for a miracle
Let's once again dwell on how to determine that you are really expecting a baby. Recall that we are talking about those periods when only the most sensitive tests can correctly diagnose conception. Basal temperature at an early stage, when life is just beginning to emerge in you, noticeably changes its character. Indicators that should have been declining will remain at the same level as throughout the 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 you can take completely different indicators for a successful conception. That is why we say that even the best schedule cannot replace competent specialist advice. The average BT should be kept at 37.2 degrees. In some cases, it is permissible to increase it to the level of 38. However, this is already the upper limit of the norm. If BBT has reached such indicators or risen above, you should immediately consult a doctor.
A high basal temperature before menstruation can not only talk about conception, but also suggest the presence of various kinds of inflammatory diseases. But it's not worth diagnosing yourself. Better see a doctor. Be aware of the possibility that you may simply be measuring incorrectly, resulting in unreliable results.
How to measure the temperature during pregnancy
Even after the interesting position of the woman has been confirmed, the doctor may recommend that you continue to conduct your observations. Sometimes this is done because, based on the examination, the gynecologist can only assume the presence of pregnancy, and additional data are 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 a high temperature persists for several days after ovulation.
- If, by reading the graph, you see that the corpus luteum phase lasts more than 18 days.
- In the standard, two-phase chart, you see the third peak.
From the point of view of diagnosing BT, the first 2 weeks of pregnancy are reliable. After that, the hormonal background changes. Therefore, the basal temperature after the first delay will not give much to the patient herself. However, if the doctor asks to continue monitoring, he should be listened to.
Development of events
These are already quite reliable signs of pregnancy. You will soon notice more obvious symptoms that are familiar to every woman. What basal temperature should be in the first trimester? To answer this question, you need to delve a little into physiology.
The prepared reader is well aware of the reasons for the increase in BT. Hormones are to blame for this, which are designed to prepare the walls of the uterus and fix the fertilized egg. When pregnancy occurs, hormones continue to be produced in large quantities, so 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
Low indicators are considered 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 indicators are low again, then consult a doctor. In addition, it is recommended to take additional measurements during the day and compare them with the morning readings.
If doctors diagnose a low level of progesterone, then the woman is hospitalized for preservation. Sometimes a decrease in BBT indicates the fading of the fetus. In this case, the corpus luteum ceases to perform its functions. However, it is impossible to make a diagnosis only on the basis of the schedule, 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 them with the results of an examination 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. Only 4-5 months of regular measurements will give you the richest material on the basis of which you can plan a future pregnancy or avoid it more effectively.
So, you armed yourself with a thermometer and the readiness to wake up every morning at the same time, look at the mercury column with bated breath and torment your girlfriends with questions whether ovulation was)
To make life easier for your beloved girlfriends, let's figure out what basal temperature is and how to cook it properly)))
Rules for measuring basal temperature:
- You can start measuring your basal temperature on any day of your cycle, but it's best if you start measuring at the beginning of your cycle (on the first day of your period).
- Measure the temperature always in the same place. Oral, vaginal or rectal methods can be selected. Armpit measurement does not give accurate results. It doesn't matter which measurement method you choose: it is important not to change it during one cycle.
- With the oral method, you put a thermometer under your tongue and measure 5 minutes with your mouth closed.
- With the vaginal or rectal method, the measurement time is reduced to at least 3 minutes.
- Take your temperature in the morning, immediately after waking up and before getting out of bed.
- Uninterrupted sleep before measurement should last at least 6 hours.
- The temperature is measured strictly at the same time. If the measurement time differs from the usual by more than 30 minutes, then such a temperature is considered not indicative.
- You can use both digital and mercury thermometers to measure. It is important not to change the thermometer during one cycle.
- If you use a mercury thermometer, shake it off before you go to sleep. The force you use to shake off the thermometer just before taking a measurement can affect the temperature.
- Write down your basal temperature every day in a notepad or use our charting website.
- Business trips, transfers and flights can significantly affect the basal temperature.
- In diseases accompanied by elevated body temperature, your basal temperature will not be indicative and you can stop measuring for the duration of the illness.
- Various medications, such as sleeping pills, sedatives, and hormonal medications, can affect basal body temperature.
- Measurement of basal temperature and the simultaneous use of contraception does not make any sense.
- After taking a large amount of alcohol, the temperature will not be indicative.
We have studied the rules, now we proceed directly to the study of the chart itself.
Ovulation line on a basal body temperature chart
To determine 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 midline and the three temperatures must be at least 0.1 degrees on two of the three days 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.
A little boring, but useful)))
Cycle length.
Smart doctors say that in general, the length of the cycle should be from 21 days to 35. In any other case, they are afraid of the possibility of ovarian dysfunction. So put your feet up and see a doctor if there are differences.
The length of the second phase on the basal temperature chart
The basal temperature chart is divided into two phases of the vertical ovulation line.
The first phase is the period before ovulation and the length of the first phase can vary greatly and these variations are an individual norm.
But the period after - this is exactly the time when each of us begins to wonder: "Is there life after ovulation?" - and is called the second phase of the cycle. It can last from 12 to 18 days. The total length of the cycle normally changes only due to the length of the first phase.
It is from the graphs that one can determine, and then confirm with subsequent hormonal studies, the insufficiency of the second phase. How can it be seen?
If you have been measuring your basal temperature for several cycles, following all the measurement rules, and your second phase is shorter than 10 days, this is a reason to consult a gynecologist. It is also a reason to go to the doctor 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 a failure of the second phase.
temperature difference
Normally, the difference between the average temperatures of the first and second phases should be more than 0.4 degrees. If it is lower, then this may indicate hormonal problems. What to do? Go take hormones for progesterone and estrogen and of course see a doctor for advice.
Five main types of temperature curves are described in classic gynecological manuals.
Normal biphasic cycle according to the basal temperature chart
An ideal schedule with an increase in temperature in the second phase of the cycle by at least 0.4 C; noticeable "preovulatory" and "premenstrual" temperature drop.
It is on such graphs that you can see the pre-ovulatory retraction on the 12th day of the cycle (the temperature drops significantly two days before ovulation), as well as the premenstrual drop, starting from the 26th day of the cycle.
A small note))) It has been experimentally proven that BT most often falls the day before ovulation. You do not trust me? Ask the measurement experts)))
If your temperature in the second phase does not rise by itself, neither by your prayers, nor by the persuasion of your friends, if the temperature difference in the first and second phases is no more than 0.2-0.3 C. This may indicate estrogen-progesterone deficiency.
Insufficiency of the second phase
The rise in BBT begins only a few days before menstruation, and there is no premenstrual temperature drop.
With such indicators of the schedule, pregnancy is possible, but there is a risk of miscarriage.
Anovulatory cycle according to the basal temperature chart
As trite as it sounds, ovulation does not occur in such a cycle. This means that there is no corpus luteum, which produces the hormone progesterone and affects the increase in body temperature, which means that the ovulation line will be absent.
Each woman can have several anovulatory cycles a year - this is normal and does not require medical intervention, but if this situation repeats from cycle to cycle, be sure to contact the gynecology center. Without ovulation - pregnancy is impossible!
estrogen deficiency
If your basal temperature jumps like a March hare, there are large temperature swings, it does not fit into any of the above types, then you may have estrogen deficiency.
A competent gynecologist is simply obliged to require testing for hormones, to examine for ultrasound, and only after these manipulations prescribe drugs.
As you know, the hormone prolactin (produced by the pituitary gland) is responsible for pregnancy. Due to the increase in this hormone (the body seriously thinks that it is pregnant), the BT schedule can be similar to the pregnant one. Menstruation, as well as during pregnancy, may be absent.
Another reason for an 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 charts, the calculation of ovulation is difficult, since such a rise "masks" the ovulatory rise.
The temperature in the first phase of the cycle from the 11th to the 15th day of the cycle is kept at 37.0 degrees, the increase occurs sharply and also falls sharply. A rise in temperature on day 9 of the cycle can be mistaken for an ovulatory rise, but in fact it most likely indicates inflammation. Therefore, it is so important to measure the temperature throughout the cycle in order to exclude such a scenario: the temperature rose due to inflammation, then fell again and then rose due to the onset of 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 onset of menstruation and rises again to 37.0 degrees with the onset of menstruation (less often on day 2-3 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 onset of menstruation in the first cycle, i.e., the temperature remains at this level, then pregnancy can be assumed, despite the onset of bleeding. Take a pregnancy test and consult a gynecologist who will conduct an ultrasound to make an accurate diagnosis.
I want to express my gratitude for the interesting proposal to write an article to Stas (Admin). And just a huge thank you to Natusik (Natusya Kharkiv), for being my inspirer, kicker and praiser, in general, a muse, in the full scope of this word)))
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