Basal temperature chart. Chart of basal temperature during pregnancy, normal and pathological menstrual cycle

Basal temperature - This body temperature at rest after at least 6 hours of sleep. IN different phases During the menstrual cycle, a woman’s basal temperature constantly changes under the influence hormonal changes in the female body.

Measurement basal temperature BT body - a simple functional test that every woman can learn at home. The method is based on the hyperthermic (temperature) effect of progesterone on the thermoregulation center located in the hypothalamus.

Why do you need a basal temperature chart?

By drawing up a graph of fluctuations in basal temperature, you can accurately predict not only the phase of the menstrual cycle at a given moment, but also suspect possible deviations from the norm. Let's list what exactly you might need skill of measuring basal temperature in everyday life:

1. If you want to get pregnant and cannot predict when ovulation occurs, a favorable moment for conceiving a child is the release of a mature, fertilizing egg from the ovarian follicle into the abdominal cavity;
or vice versa - you don’t want to get pregnant, thanks to basal temperature (BT) you can predict “ dangerous days”.
2. To determine pregnancy on early stages with a delay in menstruation.
3. By regularly measuring basal temperature, you can determine the possible cause of a delay in menstruation: pregnancy, lack of ovulation or late ovulation.
4. If your gynecologist suspects that you have hormonal disorders, you or your partner are infertile: if after one year of regular sexual activity pregnancy has not occurred, the gynecologist may recommend that you measure your basal temperature (BT) to determine 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, correct measurement of basal temperature (BT) helps answer many important questions. Most women know why they need to measure basal temperature (BT), but few know how to conduct the study correctly. Let's try to sort this issue out.

Firstly, you need to immediately understand for yourself that no matter what the basal temperature (BT) values ​​obtained are, this is not a reason for self-diagnosis, and even less so for self-medication. Only a qualified gynecologist should decipher basal temperature charts.

Secondly, there is no need to draw any quick conclusions - basal temperature (BT) needs at least 3 menstrual cycles to more or less accurately answer the 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, vagina or anus, the latter is more preferable. Many gynecologists believe that the rectal method is more reliable and produces fewer errors than all others. You need to measure the temperature in the mouth for about 5 minutes, in the vagina and rectum for about 3 minutes.
If you measured your basal temperature (BT) in one place, then the next time you take a measurement, the location of the thermometer and the duration of the measurement cannot be changed. 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. Basal temperature (BT) cannot be measured under the armpit!

3. You need to measure your 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 you use mercury, remember to shake before use.

5. Write down the results immediately, and make notes if there was anything that day or the day before that could affect basal temperature (BT): 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 basal temperature and make the study unreliable.

Upon admission oral contraceptives measuring BT makes no sense!

Thus, to compose full schedule fluctuations in basal temperature (BT) you will need to mark the indicators:
- date of the calendar month;
- day of the menstrual cycle;
- basal temperature indicators;
- the nature of discharge from the genital tract on a certain day of the cycle: bloody, mucous, viscous, watery, yellowish, dry, etc. It is important to note this to complete the picture of the chart, since during ovulation, discharge from cervical canal become more watery;
- notes as necessary for a specific day: we enter there all the provoking factors listed above that 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.

In general, your basal temperature records should look something like this in table form:

Date Day mts BT Highlights Notes

July 5 13th 36.2 Watery, transparent Drank wine the day before
July 6 14th 36.3 viscous, transparent _________
7 July 15th 36.5 white, viscous _________

Normal basal temperature chart

Before you start drawing up a basal temperature (BT) chart, you need to know how the basal temperature should normally change under the influence of hormones?

A woman’s menstrual cycle is divided into 2 phases: follicular (hypothermic) and luteal (hyperthermic). In the first phase, the follicle develops, from which the egg is subsequently released. During this same phase, the ovaries intensively produce estrogens. During the follicular phase, BT is below 37 degrees. Next, ovulation occurs in the middle of 2 phases - approximately on days 12-16 of the menstrual cycle. On the eve of ovulation, BT drops sharply. Further, during ovulation and immediately after it, progesterone is released and BT increases by 0.4-0.6 degrees, which serves reliable sign ovulation. The second phase - luteal, or also called the corpus luteum phase - lasts about 14 days and if conception has not occurred, it ends with menstruation. During the corpus luteum phase, very important processes occur - a balance is maintained between low levels of estrogen and high levels of progesterone - thus corpus luteum prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. During this phase, basal temperature (BT) usually remains at 37 degrees and above. On the eve of menstruation and in the first days of the cycle, basal temperature (BT) again drops by approximately 0.3 degrees and everything starts all over again. That is, it’s normal for everyone healthy woman there should be fluctuations in basal temperature (BT) - if there are no rises and falls, then we can talk about the absence of ovulation, and as a result, infertility.

Let's look at examples of basal temperature (BT) graphs, what they should be normally and in pathology. The basal temperature (BT) chart that you see below reflects two normal physiological conditions that a healthy woman may have: 1-lilac curve - basal temperature (BT), which should be at normal menstrual cycle, ending with menstruation; 2- light green curve - basal temperature (BT) of a woman with a normal menstrual cycle, ending in pregnancy. The black line is the ovulation line. The burgundy line is the 37 degree mark, used for clarity of the graph.

Now let's try to decipher this basal temperature graph. 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, BT sharply drops by 0.2 degrees, which is a harbinger of the beginning of ovulation. On the 13-14th day, a rise is visible immediately after the fall - ovulation occurs. Next - to the second phase - basal temperature (BT) continues to rise by 0.4-0.6 degrees compared to the first phase -c in this case up to 37 degrees and this temperature (marked with a burgundy line) remains until the end of the menstrual cycle and drops before the start of menstruation - on the 25th day of the cycle. On the 28th day of the cycle, the line is interrupted, 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 most likely a woman with a light green line on the basal temperature (BT) chart is pregnant. False Positives measurements of basal temperature (an increase in basal temperature in the absence of the corpus luteum) can be taken during 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 for a healthy woman ranges 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, conversely, longer than 35. This is a reason to contact a gynecologist. Perhaps this is ovarian dysfunction.

2. The basal temperature (BT) chart should always clearly reflect ovulation, which divides the first and second phases. Always immediately after a pre-ovulatory drop in temperature 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 graph as an example, the most favorable days For conception there will be 12,13 and 14 days of the cycle. And one more nuance: you may not detect a pre-ovulatory decrease in basal temperature (BT) immediately before ovulation, but only see an increase - there is nothing wrong with that, 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 your second phase is shorter than 10 days, this may be a sign of insufficiency of the second phase and requires 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 average values ​​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 basal temperature BT-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 BT temperature lasts more than 18 days, this may indicate a possible pregnancy (light green line on the graph). If menstruation does occur, but the discharge is quite scanty and the basal BT temperature is still elevated, you urgently need to see a gynecologist and take a pregnancy test. Most likely these are signs of an incipient miscarriage.

6. If the basal BT temperature 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 graphs of basal BT temperature for various gynecological pathologies:

The schedule is monophasic, i.e. almost without significant temperature fluctuations of the curve. If the rise in basal temperature (BT) in the second phase is weakly expressed (0.1-0.3 C) after ovulation, then this possible signs lack of hormones - progesterone and estrogen. You need to have 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 monotonic: there are no pronounced jumps or falls - ovulation does not occur, and accordingly, a woman with such a basal temperature (BT) curve cannot become pregnant. An anovulatory cycle is normal for 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 repeats from cycle to cycle, you definitely need to contact a gynecologist. The doctor will prescribe you hormonal treatment.

The basal temperature of the BT increases several 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 basal temperature (BT) schedule, but there is a high probability of miscarriage. We remember that normally the hormone progesterone is produced in the second phase. If the hormone is synthesized in insufficient quantities, BT rises very slowly and the pregnancy may be terminated. With such a basal temperature (BT) schedule, it is necessary to take a progesterone test in the second phase of the cycle. If progesterone is low, then it must be prescribed in the second phase hormonal drugs- gestagens (Utrozhestan or Duphaston). For pregnant women with low progesterone, these drugs are prescribed for up to 12 weeks. If the drugs are abruptly stopped, a miscarriage may occur.

In the first phase, the basal BT temperature under the influence of estrogens remains within 36.2-36.7 C. If the basal BT temperature in the first phase rises above the specified mark and if you see sharp jumps and rises on the graph, then most likely there is a lack of estrogen. In the second phase we see the same picture - ups and downs. On the graph, in the first phase, the basal temperature of the BT rises to 36.8 C, i.e. above normal. 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 such patients is sharply reduced. For treatment purposes, gynecologists prescribe hormone therapy. Having seen such a graph, there is no need to rush to draw conclusions - such a picture can also be observed with inflammatory gynecological diseases, when everything is in order with estrogens, for example, with inflammation of the appendages. The graph is presented below.

You see in this graph with sharp declines and rises that due to inflammatory process It is problematic to determine when ovulation occurred, since the basal temperature of the BT can increase both during inflammation and during ovulation. On the 9th day of the cycle, we see a rise, which can be mistakenly taken for an ovulatory rise, but this is most likely a sign of the onset of an inflammatory process. This basal temperature (BT) chart once again proves that you cannot 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 body temperature is lowered. If the temperature at the end of the previous cycle decreased, and then sharply rose to 37.0 with the beginning of menstruation and does not decrease, as can be seen on the graph, perhaps we are talking about a terrible disease - endometritis and you urgently need treatment from a gynecologist. But if you have a delay in your period and your basal BT temperature 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 in the graph 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:

Basal temperature (BT) charts with low or high temperature throughout the entire 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 by more than 10 days, while there is no pregnancy;
- if you observe a shortening of the second phase according to the graphs;
- if the graphs are anovulatory or the manifestations of ovulation are not clearly expressed on the graph;
- 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 charts are absolutely normal: ovulation occurs, both phases are full, but pregnancy does not occur within a year with regular unprotected sexual activity;
- 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 your own based on the obtained graphs. This can only be done by a qualified gynecologist, and then only after additional research.

Obstetrician-gynecologist, Ph.D. Christina Frambos.

Anovulatory schedule let's say 1-2 times a year even in completely healthy women. In other cases, we are talking about a hormonal disorder. You should immediately visit a doctor to begin timely treatment.

For endometritis

By analyzing basal temperature, you can identify the presence of a disease such as endometritis. Normal at the beginning of a new cycle the temperature should drop. If during menstrual flow If BT increases and remains at this level, then this is a clear symptom of the presence of the disease.

Along with this, the appearance of other symptoms of the disease is noted. These include the following:

• Painful sensations during sexual intercourse.
• Feeling worse.
• Cycle disruption.
• Purulent discharge.
• Uterine bleeding.

It is not recommended to determine deviations from the BT schedule yourself. This should be done Therapist. Treatment is prescribed based on the results of tests and other studies.

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 factors external environment. 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 techniques 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 work of the ovaries. Based on the results of measuring BT, 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 gynecological problems, such as 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 in 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. With the oral method of measuring basal temperature, you place the thermometer under your tongue and measure for 5 minutes with your mouth closed.
When using the vaginal or rectal method of measurement, insert the narrow part of the thermometer into the anus or vagina, the 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 BT before that, otherwise, at your usual 8 o’clock it will no longer be informative.

You can use both digital and mercury thermometer. It is important not to change the thermometer during one cycle.
If you use a mercury thermometer, 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, since 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 schedule must indicate the reasons that could lead to an increase in basal temperature (acute respiratory infections, inflammatory diseases, etc.).

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

For diseases accompanied elevated temperature body, 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 reception large quantity 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 levels of 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 is the day of ovulation and 2 days before it.

Menstrual cycle length

total length The normal cycle should 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 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- this is a 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 lower limit(10 or 11 days), 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 biphasic basal temperature does not prove the normal function of the 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. Nevertheless, the duration of the luteal phase in accordance with basal temperature data and the low rate of rise in basal temperature after ovulation are 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 cannot yet know about the pregnancy; even gynecologists would find it difficult to make a diagnosis at such an early stage. 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, then we are talking about an anovulatory cycle.

Each woman may 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 schedules that are repeated from cycle to cycle are very serious reason 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, the hormone estrogen dominates in the female body. 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 days 17 and 18 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 mistakenly taken 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 onset of 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 a fairly high temperature in the second phase, with characteristic “steps” (temperature rises 2 times) and slight depression. If temperature graph during stimulation, on the contrary, it 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 problems described 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 cycle delays when pregnancy does not occur
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 in different phases of the menstrual cycle are due to different levels of 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 small discharge appears these days, which disappears 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 chart has become three-phase, which means that you see a rise in temperature on the chart, 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 using 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.

Basal (or rectal) temperature is called body temperature at rest after 3-6 hours of sleep. The measurement is taken in the rectum, vagina or mouth.

The peculiarity of such measurements is absolute independence from environmental factors. The method was proposed more than half a century ago by the Englishman Marshall and is based on the biological effect produced by sex hormones, and more specifically, the hyperthermic effect that progesterone has on the thermoregulation center (i.e., it leads to an increase in temperature).

The method of measuring basal temperature is the most important test for the functional diagnosis of ovarian activity. Based on the data, they build basal temperature measurement charts.

Why measure?

BT (base temperature) measurement is carried out:

• to determine the onset of ovulation - the most favorable period for conception;
• to diagnose possible infertility;
• to determine the safe period for having unprotected sex;
• for diagnosing pregnancy at the earliest stages;
• to detect hormonal disorders.

Most women don't take things seriously this method and view it as a mere formality.

In fact, by measuring BT one obtains Lots of important information:

• about the normal course of the egg maturation process and the time of its release;
• about the quality of functioning of the endocrine system;
• about the presence of some gynecological diseases(for example, endometritis);
• about the time of the next menstruation;
• about the condition of the ovaries and the conformity of their activity to the norm.

How to measure basal temperature correctly

To obtain sufficient information and objective data, basal temperature must be recorded for at least three cycles in a row.

In this case, one should take into account the possibility general increase in temperature(including basal) due to:

• diseases;
• stress;
• overheating;
• eating;
• physical activity.

You can use a regular mercury or electronic thermometer. Using a mercury device, BT is measured within 5 minutes, but the electronic one can be taken out after the signal for the end of the measurement.

Rules for measuring BT

What is considered the norm?

Before you start drawing up a schedule, you need to know how BT changes normally under the influence of hormones. Monthly cycle women is two-phase:

• the first phase is hypothermic (follicular);
• the second is hyperthermic (luteal).

During the first, the follicle develops. Subsequently, an egg is released from it. During this period, increased synthesis of estrogen by the ovaries occurs. Base temperature is maintained below 37 degrees.

Approximately on the 12-16th day (between two phases) ovulation occurs. Immediately the day before it is observed sharp drop base temperature. During ovulation the temperature reaches a maximum, increasing by 0.4 - up to 0.6 degrees. By this sign, you can reliably judge the onset of ovulation.

The duration of the luteal phase (or corpus luteum phase) is approximately 14 days. It ends with menstruation (except in cases of pregnancy). This phase is very important because the corpus luteum prepares the female body for pregnancy by maintaining high levels of progesterone and low levels of estrogen. The BT indicator in this case is 37 degrees or more.

Right before menstruation, as well as in the first days of a new cycle, it is recorded decrease in BT by about 0.3 degrees, and the whole process is repeated.

At in good condition health must definitely be observed described temperature fluctuations. The absence of periods of rise with further declines indicates the absence of the ovulation process, which results in infertility.

Basal body temperature (BBT or BBT) is the temperature that is established after a person has substantially rested. Its measurement allows you to obtain comprehensive information about the functions of a woman’s body - to determine ovulation, the level of sex hormones and their balance, as well as possible pregnancy and its probability pathological course. How to correctly determine BT and build a graph? And is it possible to identify normality and pathology in this way?

The basal temperature is the temperature the body has at rest. A prerequisite for correct measurement is a previous rest of three to six hours. Therefore, it is optimal to determine readings after sleep. Despite the simplicity of the study, this method fully reflects hormonal fluctuations in a woman’s body, the function of the ovaries and the condition of the organs of the reproductive system. Therefore, constructing a curve based on the measured basal temperature is the first thing that needs to be done at home in order to determine ovulation and know how and when best to plan a pregnancy.

The essence of the method

Back in 1950, the role of sex hormones in the formation of a woman’s body temperature was experimentally proven. The concentration of the estrogen and progestogen components of the hormonal background changes throughout the cycle. The processes of ovulation and the formation of the endometrium (inner layer of the uterus) in the second phase depend on the level of sex hormones. A sufficient amount of them is important for the normal course of pregnancy, and a deficiency causes threat symptoms and detachment of the ovum.

Normally, an increase in the level of estrogen hormones leads to a decrease metabolic processes and, accordingly, the temperature of the pelvic organs, which is observed in the first phase of the cycle. Progesterone stimulates the thermoregulation center, leading to its slight increase in the second phase. On the curve being built, this is clearly expressed as an increase of half a degree or more.

The main disadvantage of the method is its relativity - normal schedule may be accompanied by a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels in absolute numbers. But the simplicity and accessibility of implementation at home, the information content allows for widespread use this method when planning pregnancy and for initial detection functional disorders in a woman.

What you can find out

• whether ovulation occurs (the release and maturation of an egg) and on what days;
• identify two-phase cycle or any deviations;
• approximate level of estrogen and progestogen fractions of hormones;
• infertility factor;
• when will you have your period;
• whether conception occurred;
• identify “safe” days for intimate relationships;
• suspect inflammatory processes in the uterus.

The basal temperature chart is visual material that can be provided to the doctor. Already at the first appointment, its decoding can be a great help for the appointment additional examination woman.

When is it useful to use the method

A schedule can be created for everyone, for example, for contraception. BT will increase on the day of ovulation; at this time, additional measures should be taken to protect against pregnancy. A change in BT is prescribed for diagnostic purposes:

• for problems with conception;
• in case of doubtful pregnancy;
• in order to increase the likelihood of conception.

Only a professional can correctly analyze the result. An obstetrician-gynecologist thoroughly knows how basal temperature changes during ovulation and pregnancy.

How to make your research accurate

It is important to know how to correctly measure and record the result of basal temperature, especially if this is necessary to determine ovulation. Essentially, this is a determination of the metabolic rate and heat transfer in the pelvic organs. To obtain the most accurate data, it is necessary to conduct research in the rectum. This way, even the slightest fluctuations can be recorded, which can affect the result and interpretation of the data. It is also recommended to follow the rules:

• rest for at least 3 hours right before the measurement;
• refrain from intimate contacts before measurement;
• avoid stress;
• limit the consumption of spicy and highly salted foods;
• keep an eye on normal operation intestines;
• use one thermometer (electronic or mercury).

How to do it correctly

BT measurement can be started at any time convenient time- before, during or after menstruation. Simple recommendations will help you get the most accurate result.

• Where to measure. For solutions gynecological problems It is necessary to measure the temperature in the rectum. Other areas will not be suitable, the result will be biased.
• On what days? It is necessary to determine the temperature on all days of the menstrual cycle. A special graph is used to record the results. There is no need to skip measurements on critical days.
• What time. It is optimal to conduct the study in the morning. A prerequisite is three hours of rest. It is not recommended to even shake the thermometer before measuring, much less get up to go to the toilet or just get out of bed. If a woman works at night, the measurement should be taken after three hours of sleep during the day or even in the evening. It is advisable to make notes about such shifts in the table chart. It is necessary to take measurements at the same time every day with intervals of no more than one and a half to two hours.
• How to prepare. If a girl begins to measure rectal temperature, she should make sure that the thermometer lies next to her bed every day, and she can conduct the examination without getting out of bed.
• Which weeks to measure by? To obtain reliable information, it is necessary to conduct the study according to plan for at least 10-12 weeks in a row (two to three months). Even normally, a woman does not ovulate every month, especially after 35 years.
• Which thermometer is better? It is considered more accurate mercury thermometer. It must first be brought down to the minimum readings in the evening, so as not to perform additional actions in the morning. You should not put a mercury thermometer under your pillow - it can easily break. The use of an electronic thermometer is allowed. It is easier and safer to handle, but may be somewhat inferior in accuracy.
• How to record the result. It is better to write down the testimony immediately, without relying on your memory. Daily differences will be tenths of a degree, so they can be easily confused. It is advisable to record additional factors, which could influence the result. For example, drinking alcohol, moving, illness, sleep disturbance.

Ideally basal temperature readings

Normally, the curve looks like “gull wings in flight.” This is a figurative expression that doctors often use in their practice. In order to be able to clearly track changes on the graph, it is necessary to adhere to a number of conditions:

• start from the first day of bleeding;
• enter parameters into the chart daily;
• Draw a line as you fill;
• find out the day of ovulation;
• additionally note the nature of the discharge;
• You can use developed programs for data entry.

Filling out the chart accurately will help make it as informative as possible. According to reviews from women who have long been practicing determining rectal temperature, it is simple and does not require special medical knowledge. You can compare the obtained indicators with the norm using the following table.

Table - Important values in the BT chart and normal options

If there is a balance of sex hormones, the readings of the second phase should be 0.4-0.6 °C greater than the first. Only a specialist can most accurately and reliably compare the information presented in the table and obtained during measurements.

Possible deviations

It is difficult to conduct an in-depth analysis of the basal temperature chart on your own; if ovulation is disrupted, it may have a non-standard appearance. Therefore, it is better to contact a gynecologist for a detailed explanation, especially if there are any problems (with pregnancy, conception).

Doctors and women have to deal with the following deviations.

• During critical days readings above. It could be double ovulation, but this is a rare occurrence. Most often, an increase in rectal temperature above 37 °C indicates the presence of a sluggish inflammatory process in the uterine cavity.
• Increased BT values ​​for the first 14 days. If the reading is above 36.6 °C, then the estrogen level is not enough to lower it. As a result, the egg does not mature.
• After ovulation, the rise is smooth, not sharp. This indicates the inferiority of the egg. She either does not have time to ripen, or she does not have enough hormone emissions for full ovulation.
• The second phase of the cycle is short. Normally, after ovulation, at least 12-14 days should pass before the onset of menstruation. A shortening of the period indicates insufficient hormonal support. Even if conception occurs at this time (the basal temperature chart during pregnancy will also have high numbers), the fertilized egg will not have enough hormonal support and will die. Duphaston (artificial gestagen) prescribed in a timely manner will help maintain pregnancy in such situations. Reviews from women whose “miracle” appeared thanks to this drug prove its effectiveness.
• A sharp drop, and then a slight rise in the second phase. Such “pits” are direct evidence of the sudden death of the egg.
• Small difference in the average readings of the first and second phases. If a low basal temperature is observed until the end of the cycle after ovulation, most likely the reason lies in the inadequate production of progesterone.
• Temperature high/low throughout the cycle. If a normal difference between the average values ​​remains (0.4-0.6), this may be an individual manifestation of increased or low temperature of the whole body.
• The temperature peak shifts to the right or left. This can be observed with early (for example, on days 5-7) or late ovulation(on days 21-23), the usefulness of such ovulation can be judged by the temperature jump. In this case, the second phase of the cycle will be shortened or lengthened accordingly.
• No climbs at all. The absence of peaks in basal temperature indicates that the cycles are without ovulation (anovulatory).
• While taking estrogen-progestogen tablets. There is no point in plotting when using hormonal contraceptives, as they create an anovulatory state in the body.

What changes are recorded during normal and pathological pregnancy?

When constructing curves, one is always interested in the question of how and when one can determine whether pregnancy has occurred based on basal temperature. After all, when tracking ovulation, most do this in order to increase the likelihood of conception.

The way basal temperature changes is important only in the early stages of pregnancy - in the 1st trimester. In the 2nd and 3rd trimesters there are others diagnostic signs and more reliable research. The following options are possible.

• With successful gestation. Normally, after conception, the basal temperature rises and remains elevated throughout pregnancy, which is especially clearly noticeable in the early stages of pregnancy, when women even notice a rise in the temperature of the whole body. Even before the delay, it will be possible to find out that conception has occurred. Moreover, it does not matter at all how many fruits a woman bears: one, twins or more. After all, the curve shows relative, not absolute values. If the curve has already decreased, but there are no periods, pregnancy is unlikely - this is a cycle failure.
• At ectopic pregnancy. The graph is influenced by the location of the ovum, and how intensely the corpus luteum produces progesterone. Therefore, if the embryo develops without deviations, BT during an ectopic pregnancy in the early stages will be the same as normal.
• During a frozen pregnancy. Just before the embryo stops developing further, a low basal temperature suddenly appears, which no longer rises during a given pregnancy.
• If there is a threat of miscarriage. Often the cause of the threat is a lack of progesterone. In this case, the basal temperature during pregnancy will fall or tend to decrease. If the reason is different, then there may be no changes in the graph. If, against the background of a high basal temperature, bloody issues, you need to urgently consult a doctor.
• Stimulation of ovulation in case of infertility. In this case, artificial hormonal background will create an ideal basal temperature curve before and after ovulation, including later in pregnancy if fertilization has occurred.

You shouldn’t talk about pregnancy prognosis based on basal temperature alone. The process of gestation may be influenced by other circumstances that are not always reflected on the graph (pathology of embryo development, infection).

Thus, measuring rectal temperature is an accessible and simple method for monitoring function. female body. This functional diagnostic test often helps to clarify infertility problems, various endocrine disorders. During pregnancy, basal temperature normally increases before menstruation, and if fertilization has not occurred, it decreases. If all recommendations are followed, this method is more reliable than any pregnancy test. It is informative and advisable to measure temperature only up to the 2nd trimester.

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