Basal temperature charts with examples and explanation. Download basal temperature chart in excel. Print out the basal temperature chart.  Basal temperature chart: examples and explanation Download the ovulation application based on basal temperature

Having figured out what BT is and how to measure it, let's move on to the topic of basal temperature chart. Let's find out how to build it correctly and what can be analyzed based on the results of this graph.

What happens to BT during one cycle

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 endocrine system
Suspect gynecological problems, for example, endometritis
When to expect your next menstruation
Whether pregnancy occurred due to delay or unusual menstruation;
Assess how correctly the ovaries secrete hormones according to the phases of the menstrual cycle;

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

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

Thermometer for measuring basal temperature.

You will need a regular medical thermometer: mercury or electronic. The basal temperature is measured with a mercury thermometer for five minutes, but the electronic thermometer 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.

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

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

Low temperature in the second phase of the menstrual cycle

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

Corpus luteum deficiency

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

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

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

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

Estrogen-progesterone deficiency

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

When stimulating ovulation, in particular with clomiphene (clostilbegit) with the use of duphaston in the second phase of breast cancer, 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 the temperature graph during stimulation, on the contrary, is disrupted and deviates from normal, this may indicate an incorrect selection of the dose of drugs or an inappropriate stimulation scenario (other medications may be needed). An increase in temperature in the first phase upon stimulation with clomiphene also occurs with individual sensitivity to the drug.

Special cases of basal temperature chart

Low or high temperature in both phases, provided that the temperature difference is at least 0.4 degrees, is not a pathology. This is an individual feature of the 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 a high temperature in the second phase of the cycle for more than 18 days, without the onset of menstruation and a negative pregnancy test
unexplained bleeding or heavy discharge mid-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 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 (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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Graphs are discussed at

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

Previously, it was believed that it was possible to determine a possible pregnancy, ovulation or gynecological disease only after passing a huge number of tests.

Today, such a myth will help dispel a simple basal temperature chart that any woman can independently draw up. He will not give an exact answer, like a doctor, but he will show him and you what is happening to the female body. This article will provide graphs of basal temperature with examples and explanations, as well as why basal temperature is needed and what it means.

• when you can’t get pregnant for many months;
• risk of possible infertility;
• hormonal disorders.

In addition, measuring BT helps increase the chances of successful conception and the ability to plan the gender of the child. A template or sample basal temperature chart can be downloaded online.

Many women do not take basal temperature measurement seriously, believing that it is a mere formality that is of no benefit. However, this is not the case. Thanks to the BT readings, the doctor can determine the following points:

• establish how the egg matures;
• determine the ovulatory period;
• approximate date of next menstruation;
• It is not uncommon for BT readings to determine possible endometritis.

It is necessary to measure BT over 3 cycles, this will provide more accurate information about the date of favorable conception. An experienced gynecologist will help you decipher the graph readings. You can also see an example of basal temperature graphs on the Internet online.

Thermometer for measuring BT

For the measurement, one type of thermometer is used; it is not changed during the measurement. Thus, it will be possible to see the norm or deviations on the basal temperature graph.

A mercury thermometer measures the temperature within 4-5 minutes, and an electronic one 2 times faster. Do not forget to wipe the device with an antiseptic before and after each measurement and let it dry before use.

Correct BT measurement

Accurate and effective plotting requires compliance with certain rules:

• BT measurement should be daily, if possible, during menstruation or at the time of respiratory illness;
• Temperature measurements are taken in the rectum, mouth or vagina. The main rule is that the measurement location does not change throughout the entire cycle. Doctors still strongly recommend measuring vaginal temperature. If BT is measured rectally or vaginally, then the narrow part of the device is carefully inserted into the desired location for 3-4 minutes;
• You need to measure BT immediately in the morning after waking up without getting up, this is a strict rule, and at the same time. Measuring basal temperature an hour after sleep or during the day may not give accurate results;
• The measurement is carried out only in a lying position. Therefore, you will need to prepare your thermometer in the evening and place it next to your bed. If you need to go to the toilet, you will also have to wait a couple of minutes here. Excessive activity will give unreliable results;
• After measuring BT, readings are taken immediately. If this was done after 2-5 minutes, then the result is considered invalid;
• keep in mind that intimate relationships in the evening or in the morning, as well as flights, too active sports and colds may incorrectly affect the correctness of the basal temperature result;
• BT must also be measured after 4 hours of continuous sleep.

BT information table

The table for determining BT should include the following items:

• day of the month, year;
• cycle day;
• measurement result;
• additionally: here you need to indicate all the parameters that can affect BT. These include: vaginal discharge, having sex the day before, allergic reactions, viral diseases, taking medications, etc.

A detailed description of these factors will help the doctor most accurately determine the time of conception. If desired, a basal temperature chart can be downloaded from any medical website related to gynecology.

Changes in BT relative to the cycle

Note that BT changes depending on the cycle, or rather its time.

So, during the first phase of the cycle, when only the maturation of the egg occurs, BT is low, gradually dropping to a minimum, then it rises again. The difference between the highest and lowest BT is from 04 to 0.8 degrees.

If measured at the time of menstruation, the temperature will be exactly 37 degrees, and after ovulation ends it rises to 37.1-37.1 under the influence of progesterone.

If the graph showed that BT in the first phase is much higher than in the second, then there is a clear lack of estrogen. You may need to take hormonal medications. In the case when the second phase is characterized by a low temperature in relation to the first, then we are talking about low progesterone.

When both cycles are persistent, this indicates ovulation has occurred. If in the second phase there is no increase in BT, then most likely there was no ovulation, i.e. the egg did not come out.

The BT chart is a fairly convenient and modern way to determine ovulation, which is an integral part of planning a successful pregnancy. The results of basal temperature will also be useful before going to the gynecologist.

Explanation and examples of BT charts

When the graph is constructed correctly and the woman followed all the recommendations in its preparation, it allows not only to determine the presence of ovulation, but also possible pathologies of the genital area.

On the graph you can see an overlapping line that is drawn on top of six temperature values, precisely in the first phase. This is what a normal basal temperature graph looks like, without pathologies or deviations. We do not take into account only those days where the result could be distorted under the influence of taking medications, viral diseases, sexual contact the day before, etc.

Effects of ovulation

To determine ovulation, you need to use standard rules:

pay attention to the midline and 3 BT results, the difference in two out of three cases should be at least 0.1 degrees. If these are the results in the table, then after 1-2 days you will be able to observe a clear ovulation line.

Duration of the second phase

As we found out, the BT graph is divided into two phases, we can see this in the photo above, where the vertical line is located. The normal cycle in the second phase is from 12 to 17 days, but most often 15.

As practice shows, quite often there is a deficiency in phase 2. If you note that this phase is 8-10 days shorter, then this is a serious reason to consult a doctor.

If we talk about the BT norm, then its difference between the first and second phases is about 0.4-0.5 degrees, but no more.

Two-phase cycle and its norm (normal two-phase schedule)

On this graph, it is necessary to note an increase in BT by no more than 0.4 degrees.

If you look at the example graph above, you can see that 2 days before ovulation, BT decreases.

Hormonal deficiency: progesterone estrogen

With this deficiency, you will notice a significantly weak rise in BT, and the difference in the first and second phases will be no more than 0.2 degrees. When a similar phenomenon is observed for more than three cycles in a row, then we can talk about serious hormonal imbalances. As for pregnancy itself, it can occur, but at the same time there is a high risk of miscarriage.

Also, do not forget about anovulatory cycles. This can happen in a woman’s life up to three times a year. However, if the number of such cycles exceeds 3-4, then this is a serious reason to consult a doctor.

In the graph below you can clearly see the absence of ovulation:

Hormonal deficiency: estrogens

If at the end of the graph, a woman observes large differences in BT, and the line itself is in a chaotic state, then we can talk about a lack of estrogen.

A deficiency of this hormone can also be noticed by an increase in temperature in the second phase to 37.2, sometimes to 37.3.

Note that the increase in temperature is very slow and can last up to 5 days. In this case, it cannot be said that this basal temperature will be perceived by the doctor as normal.

Below in the graph you can see how estrogen deficiency manifests itself.

Having figured out what BT is and how to measure it, let's move on to the topic of basal temperature chart. Let's find out how to build it correctly and what can be analyzed based on the results of this graph.

What happens to BT during one cycle

During each menstrual cycle, a woman’s BBT changes under the influence of certain hormones.

In the first phase, when the egg grows and matures, estrogen activity predominates. At this stage, BT is considered “low”, and this period is called hypothermic. A day or two before the onset of BT reaches its lowest value (36.7-36.9).

When ovulation occurs, the corpus luteum begins to work at the site of the ruptured follicle, which produces the pregnancy hormone progesterone. It affects the thermoregulation structures and BT begins to increase.

After the release of the egg, the second half of the menstrual cycle begins, the stage of “high” temperature or hyperthermic rise of the curve. It is characterized by low values.

The temperature difference between these two periods can be 0.5-1 degrees. During bleeding during menstruation, BT fluctuates within 37 degrees, and then begins to decrease and this two-phase cycle repeats again.

The figure shows what a normal basal temperature graph looks like.

How to create such a schedule yourself

In order to draw a graph, the patient will need a special form or a pre-prepared template, where she will enter the results obtained daily. You can print such a template by downloading it from the Internet, or draw it yourself by hand.

The figure shows what a template for plotting a graph looks like.

Every day at the same time in the morning, a woman takes BBT measurements and records them in this table. The table takes into account not only the measurement results; additional information must be entered in a separate column about what could have caused an unscheduled increase or decrease in BT, for example, alcohol intake or a viral infection.

After completing one cycle, the woman connects the points obtained and, together with a specialist, analyzes the results of the graph.

Important! Considering that even normally a woman experiences anovulatory cycles, BBT measurements should be carried out for at least 3-4 months in a row to monitor the dynamics of the process.

How to Evaluate Basal Temperature Charts

Let us recall once again what the calendar of an ideal two-phase schedule looks like.

Now let’s look at examples of various deviations from the norm in the first and second phases and find out what they can mean.

Lack of estrogen and progesterone

In these situations, in the second phase there is either no increase in the curve or it is very weak by 0.3-0.4 degrees.

If such results are constantly recorded, then this may indicate a problem in the body, which leads to secondary infertility.

Important! A woman can conceive a child even with this pathology, but low progesterone levels can cause spontaneous miscarriage. Therefore, even pregnant women should understand their BT schedule.

Insufficiency of the second phase in the II-phase cycle

A calendar with such a schedule is characterized by a short second period, and the curve of the schedule begins to rise only before menstrual bleeding. This happens when progesterone production is disrupted.

Anovulatory cycle

It is characterized by the absence of changes in the graph curve in both the first and second phases. The egg does not leave the follicle and, accordingly, conceiving a baby is impossible.

Normally, once a year or less often a woman may experience this situation, but its repetition for several months in a row indicates the presence of pathology in the body.

Atypical curve graphics

The calendar shows the ups and downs of the graph curve, which are not typical for any type. It happens when and under the influence of random causes (virus, medications, etc.).

What causes high temperature in the first phase

We found out that the first period is a phase of low values ​​(36.7-36.9), let’s consider in what situations a deviation from the norm may be observed:

• insufficiency of female hormones (estrogens). At this time, estrogens have a predominant effect. If their synthesis is reduced, then in the first phase BT may rise above the usual values, and in the second phase it continues to increase and remains at an elevated level as progesterone begins to work;
• inflammatory processes in the ovaries. Inflammation can cause an abnormally high curve in the first phase. It is very easy to miss on a graph like this because the rise in temperature due to inflammation is mistakenly confused with ovulation, and then the true temperature peak during ovulation is missed. The picture shows what this might look like;

• inflammation of the lining of the uterus (endometriosis). This process is characterized by the absence of a decrease in temperature after menstrual bleeding, and it continues to remain at a high level (37.1-37.3). The first period begins with an elevated temperature, which gradually decreases and rises again at the time of ovulation;
• during pregnancy. If the egg has been fertilized successfully, the corpus luteum continues to intensively produce progesterone, which maintains a high temperature at the time when, according to calculations, the first period should begin. Measurements of an increase in BT in the first phase are accompanied by a delay in menstrual bleeding.

Important! One-time increases or decreases in temperature are unlikely to signal inflammation. It cannot begin and end in one day. Such errors are most likely due to incorrect measurement of BT or other random reasons.

Why is there low temperature in phase II?

The second phase, unlike the first, is considered a period of high temperature values ​​(37.1-37.3 degrees). Let's look at when BT does not increase in the second phase:

Correct construction and analysis of BT charts helps to suspect the presence of various pathological processes and calculate the time of favorable days for conception. This research method is simple, but diagnostically inaccurate, so if you have any doubts, you should consult a doctor for additional examination

This article will help you understand what basal temperature is, how to measure it, and how to use a basal temperature chart to calculate your ovulation day.

Basal temperature chart

It's very easy to plot your basal temperature. All you need to do is take your temperature every day and enter the data into a table or computer program. All you need to do is notice the change in temperature, which is usually 0.4 - 0.6 degrees, which occurs after ovulation. This way, you can determine the day of ovulation when conception is most likely.

Measuring basal temperature (BT) is necessary so that the doctor can determine whether a woman is ovulating, since during ovulation the temperature in the vagina and rectum drops, sometimes even to 36.2-35.9 ° C. And after 2-3 days it should rise to a level of 37°C or slightly higher. After such a jump in temperature, the second phase of the menstrual cycle begins. Measuring basal temperature reflects the functioning of the ovaries much more accurately than hormonal tests and ultrasound folliculometry.

The construction of the schedule should begin from the first day of the menstrual cycle, that is, from the first day of menstruation. The temperature changes in the rectum in the morning, on an empty stomach, immediately after waking up. That is, at 7-8 o’clock in the morning, without getting out of bed, use a simple mercury thermometer, inserting its mercury tip into the anus for 5 minutes. Don't forget to record the current date on the chart. Continue building the graph until the next menstruation begins. With the beginning of a new menstruation (new cycle), start building a new schedule. To catch the pattern, you need to measure your temperature over three menstrual cycles and record the data daily.

A woman must register every sexual intercourse and all events accompanying ovulation. It is very important to take into account the psycho-physical state of a woman. Poor or inadequate sleep, stress, nervous tension, overwork during the work week, illness - all this affects the menstrual cycle. Therefore, it is advisable to mark these factors on the chart with special icons.

Some women, for example, at the moment the egg is released from the ovary, feel a short pain (sharp prick) in the area of ​​the right or left ovary. In some cases, a few drops of blood or copious mucus may be discharged from the vagina. Observing these phenomena during a rise in temperature helps the doctor in determining the fact of ovulation.

Basal temperature charts:

rice. A- during normal ovulation.

rice. B- in the absence of ovulation.

rice. IN- during ovulation with subsequent conception and pregnancy.

Three months later, the woman brings a sheet with temperature data. If there is no dysfunction of the ovaries (or other endocrine glands), and ovulation occurs normally, then further examination is carried out. If ovulation is absent, it is necessary to find and eliminate the cause of this deviation.

To create basal temperature charts yourself, you can download a file from me with a form to fill out with your daily temperature readings. All you have to do is print it out and start filling it out. On the first line you specify the current date of the month. And in the temperature grid of the form, draw your graph of basal temperatures.

Measuring basal temperature has become a truly popular means of pregnancy planning.

Why measure basal temperature

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

The method of measuring basal body temperature was developed in 1953 by the English professor Marshall and refers to research 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 for the functional diagnosis of ovarian function. 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 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, a gynecologist’s diagnosis based solely on the basal temperature chart without additional tests and examinations most often indicates medical unprofessionalism.

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

Thermometer for measuring basal temperature.

You will need a regular medical thermometer: mercury or electronic. The basal temperature is measured with a mercury thermometer for five minutes, but the electronic thermometer 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.

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

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

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

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

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

This form of recording greatly helps both the woman and her doctor to understand the possible causes of 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 with an accurate measurement of basal body temperature can one 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 with medications 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 of low progesterone levels and 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 the overall basal temperature chart is normal.

The most optimal time for conception is the day of ovulation and 2 days before it.

Menstrual cycle length

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

Second phase length

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

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

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

Temperature difference

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

An increase in basal temperature occurs when serum progesterone levels exceed 2.5-4.0 ng/ml (7.6-12.7 nmol/l). However, monophasic basal temperature has been identified in a number of patients with normal progesterone levels 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 that cause 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 patterns that are repeated from cycle to cycle are a very serious reason to consult a gynecologist. Without ovulation, a woman cannot become pregnant and we are talking about female infertility.

Estrogen deficiency

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

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

High basal temperature in the first phase

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

Estrogen deficiency

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

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

Low temperature in the second phase of the menstrual cycle

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

Corpus luteum deficiency

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

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

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

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

Estrogen-progesterone deficiency

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

Hyperprolactinemia

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

Basal temperature chart for ovulation stimulation

When stimulating ovulation, in particular with clomiphene (clostilbegit) with the use of duphaston in the second phase of breast cancer, 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 the temperature graph during stimulation, on the contrary, is disrupted and deviates from normal, this may indicate an incorrect selection of the dose of drugs or an inappropriate stimulation scenario (other medications may be needed). An increase in temperature in the first phase upon stimulation with clomiphene also occurs with individual sensitivity to the drug.

Special cases of basal temperature chart

Low or high temperature in both phases, provided that the temperature difference is at least 0.4 degrees, is not a pathology. This is an individual feature of the 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 a high temperature in the second phase of the cycle for more than 18 days, without the onset of menstruation and a negative pregnancy test
unexplained bleeding or heavy discharge mid-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 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 (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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Graphs are discussed at

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

Previously, it was believed that it was possible to determine a possible pregnancy, ovulation or gynecological disease only after passing a huge number of tests.

Today, such a myth will help dispel a simple basal temperature chart that any woman can independently draw up. He will not give an exact answer, like a doctor, but he will show him and you what is happening to the female body. This article will provide graphs of basal temperature with examples and explanations, as well as why basal temperature is needed and what it means.

• when you can’t get pregnant for many months;
• risk of possible infertility;
• hormonal disorders.

In addition, measuring BT helps increase the chances of successful conception and the ability to plan the gender of the child. A template or sample basal temperature chart can be downloaded online.

Many women do not take basal temperature measurement seriously, believing that it is a mere formality that is of no benefit. However, this is not the case. Thanks to the BT readings, the doctor can determine the following points:

• establish how the egg matures;
• determine the ovulatory period;
• approximate date of next menstruation;
• It is not uncommon for BT readings to determine possible endometritis.

It is necessary to measure BT over 3 cycles, this will provide more accurate information about the date of favorable conception. An experienced gynecologist will help you decipher the graph readings. You can also see an example of basal temperature graphs on the Internet online.

Thermometer for measuring BT

For the measurement, one type of thermometer is used; it is not changed during the measurement. Thus, it will be possible to see the norm or deviations on the basal temperature graph.

A mercury thermometer measures the temperature within 4-5 minutes, and an electronic one 2 times faster. Do not forget to wipe the device with an antiseptic before and after each measurement and let it dry before use.

Correct BT measurement

Accurate and effective plotting requires compliance with certain rules:

• BT measurement should be daily, if possible, during menstruation or at the time of respiratory illness;
• Temperature measurements are taken in the rectum, mouth or vagina. The main rule is that the measurement location does not change throughout the entire cycle. Doctors still strongly recommend measuring vaginal temperature. If BT is measured rectally or vaginally, then the narrow part of the device is carefully inserted into the desired location for 3-4 minutes;
• You need to measure BT immediately in the morning after waking up without getting up, this is a strict rule, and at the same time. Measuring basal temperature an hour after sleep or during the day may not give accurate results;
• The measurement is carried out only in a lying position. Therefore, you will need to prepare your thermometer in the evening and place it next to your bed. If you need to go to the toilet, you will also have to wait a couple of minutes here. Excessive activity will give unreliable results;
• After measuring BT, readings are taken immediately. If this was done after 2-5 minutes, then the result is considered invalid;
• keep in mind that intimate relationships in the evening or in the morning, as well as flights, too active sports and colds may incorrectly affect the correctness of the basal temperature result;
• BT must also be measured after 4 hours of continuous sleep.

BT information table

The table for determining BT should include the following items:

• day of the month, year;
• cycle day;
• measurement result;
• additionally: here you need to indicate all the parameters that can affect BT. These include: vaginal discharge, having sex the day before, allergic reactions, viral diseases, taking medications, etc.

A detailed description of these factors will help the doctor most accurately determine the time of conception. If desired, a basal temperature chart can be downloaded from any medical website related to gynecology.

Changes in BT relative to the cycle

Note that BT changes depending on the cycle, or rather its time.

So, during the first phase of the cycle, when only the maturation of the egg occurs, BT is low, gradually dropping to a minimum, then it rises again. The difference between the highest and lowest BT is from 04 to 0.8 degrees.

If measured at the time of menstruation, the temperature will be exactly 37 degrees, and after ovulation ends it rises to 37.1-37.1 under the influence of progesterone.

If the graph showed that BT in the first phase is much higher than in the second, then there is a clear lack of estrogen. You may need to take hormonal medications. In the case when the second phase is characterized by a low temperature in relation to the first, then we are talking about low progesterone.

When both cycles are persistent, this indicates ovulation has occurred. If in the second phase there is no increase in BT, then most likely there was no ovulation, i.e. the egg did not come out.

The BT chart is a fairly convenient and modern way to determine ovulation, which is an integral part of planning a successful pregnancy. The results of basal temperature will also be useful before going to the gynecologist.

Explanation and examples of BT charts

When the graph is constructed correctly and the woman followed all the recommendations in its preparation, it allows not only to determine the presence of ovulation, but also possible pathologies of the genital area.

On the graph you can see an overlapping line that is drawn on top of six temperature values, precisely in the first phase. This is what a normal basal temperature graph looks like, without pathologies or deviations. We do not take into account only those days where the result could be distorted under the influence of taking medications, viral diseases, sexual contact the day before, etc.

Effects of ovulation

To determine ovulation, you need to use standard rules:

pay attention to the midline and 3 BT results, the difference in two out of three cases should be at least 0.1 degrees. If these are the results in the table, then after 1-2 days you will be able to observe a clear ovulation line.

Duration of the second phase

As we found out, the BT graph is divided into two phases, we can see this in the photo above, where the vertical line is located. The normal cycle in the second phase is from 12 to 17 days, but most often 15.

As practice shows, quite often there is a deficiency in phase 2. If you note that this phase is 8-10 days shorter, then this is a serious reason to consult a doctor.

If we talk about the BT norm, then its difference between the first and second phases is about 0.4-0.5 degrees, but no more.

Two-phase cycle and its norm (normal two-phase schedule)

On this graph, it is necessary to note an increase in BT by no more than 0.4 degrees.

If you look at the example graph above, you can see that 2 days before ovulation, BT decreases.

Hormonal deficiency: progesterone estrogen

With this deficiency, you will notice a significantly weak rise in BT, and the difference in the first and second phases will be no more than 0.2 degrees. When a similar phenomenon is observed for more than three cycles in a row, then we can talk about serious hormonal imbalances. As for pregnancy itself, it can occur, but at the same time there is a high risk of miscarriage.

Also, do not forget about anovulatory cycles. This can happen in a woman’s life up to three times a year. However, if the number of such cycles exceeds 3-4, then this is a serious reason to consult a doctor.

In the graph below you can clearly see the absence of ovulation:

Hormonal deficiency: estrogens

If at the end of the graph, a woman observes large differences in BT, and the line itself is in a chaotic state, then we can talk about a lack of estrogen.

A deficiency of this hormone can also be noticed by an increase in temperature in the second phase to 37.2, sometimes to 37.3.

Note that the increase in temperature is very slow and can last up to 5 days. In this case, it cannot be said that this basal temperature will be perceived by the doctor as normal.

Below in the graph you can see how estrogen deficiency manifests itself.

A correctly constructed basal temperature (BT) chart allows you to determine the day of ovulation, and will also help identify its absence or other gynecological problems, if any.

Ovulation line. The onset of ovulation can be determined using the WHO method. You should take points on the chart for the last 9 days. Find the highest basal temperature value for the first 6 days of the selected period and draw a horizontal line through this point. If the temperature over the last three days of the selected period was above this line and at least two points lie 0.1 o C higher than this line, then this indicates the onset of ovulation. The ovulation line passes on the day the temperature begins to rise. The optimal time for conception is the day of ovulation, two days before and after it. If BT is high in the first phase of the cycle, then it will not be possible to determine ovulation using the WHO method. If you measure your BBT for three months, you can then determine which day of the cycle you ovulate. This will allow you to calculate in advance the most favorable period for conception.

Menstrual cycle length Normally it is 21–35 days. The duration of the first phase can vary greatly, which is the individual norm. However, in a healthy woman, the first and second phases last approximately the same number of days. If cycles are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days, or one phase is noticeably shorter than the other, there is a possibility of ovarian dysfunction. The reasons for the malfunction of the ovaries can be very different, so if a woman measures her BT in order to become pregnant, then in such a situation she should visit a gynecologist and discuss the problem with him.

Second phase length(after ovulation). The second phase begins after ovulation, it is marked on the graph with a vertical line). The second phase of the cycle lasts 12–16 days. If over several cycles the length of the second phase is less than 10 days, you should consult a gynecologist.

Temperature difference the first and second phases should average 0.4 degrees. If the indicator is lower, then this indicates hormonal problems. It is necessary to take a blood test for estrogen and progesterone.

How to determine pregnancy by BT

Daily measurement of BT allows you to determine pregnancy in the early stages, when pharmacy tests do not yet work. However, it is possible to accurately establish the fact of pregnancy only if the previous three months of indicators were reflected daily in the basal body temperature chart. Normally, on the day of ovulation, BT increases from 36.3-36.6°C to 37.0-37.3°C. It stays at this level for more than seven days, dropping only 3-4 days before menstruation. If 1-2 days before the expected date of menstruation the temperature has not decreased, we can talk about pregnancy.

Anovulatory cycle

If ovulation does not occur, then the basal temperature throughout the entire cycle is in the range of 36.5–36.9 0 C. The graph of basal temperature during an anovulatory cycle is not a horizontal line. Rather, it will resemble a saw - the temperature on different days can either increase by 0.1-0.3 C or decrease. Several anovulatory cycles per year are considered acceptable. However, if the situation repeats itself consistently from cycle to cycle, then this is a reason to visit a gynecologist.

Prolactinemia

With this condition, the level of the hormone prolactin (pituitary hormone) in the blood is increased, which regulates many processes. However, excess prolactin production can interfere with pregnancy. In this case, the basal temperature measurement chart may look the same as the chart of a pregnant woman. Menstruation, as during pregnancy, may be absent.

Estrogen deficiency

Estrogen lowers the temperature during the first phase of the cycle and “sets” the optimal temperature for ovulation - 36.2–36.5 ° C. Therefore, if menstruation has begun and the temperature continues to remain at 37 o C, or during ovulation and in the second phase the temperature “jumps” above 37.1 o C, then the body does not produce enough estrogen, which may be the cause of infertility. The basal temperature chart for estrogen deficiency is predominantly above 37 o C.

Corpus luteum deficiency

During the second phase of the cycle, the body produces the corpus luteum hormone, or progesterone. It is responsible for raising the temperature and preventing the onset of menstruation. Therefore, a too smooth rise in temperature in the second phase of the cycle indicates the need for a progesterone test. If conception has occurred, then if there is a lack of progesterone, pregnancy will be at risk.

If in the second phase of the cycle the rise in temperature is weakly expressed, that is, the difference in temperature in the first and second phases is 0.2-0.3 degrees, then we can talk about estrogen-progesterone insufficiency. If such a schedule of changes in basal temperature is repeated every cycle, then this does not indicate a one-time failure, but serious hormonal disorders. If you receive this type of BT schedule, be sure to visit a gynecologist.

Inflammation of the appendages (ovaries)

An increase in temperature to 37°C in the first phase of the cycle indicates not only the onset of ovulation. The temperature may rise due to inflammation of the appendages. The increase occurs for a couple of days, then there is a decline. In this case, several temperature rises will be observed during one cycle, rather than just one. Using this graph of a woman’s basal temperature, it will not be possible to calculate ovulation. This is why BT should be measured throughout the entire cycle so as not to mistake inflammation of the appendages for ovulation.

Signs of infertility

You can talk about infertility only after unsuccessful attempts to get pregnant within 12 months. Women over 35 years of age are diagnosed with infertility after 6 months of unsuccessful attempts to become pregnant.

Signs of infertility that can be seen on the BBT chart:

• Lack of a regular cycle.
• Lack of ovulation.
• Estrogen deficiency.
• Lack of corpus luteum.
• Estrogen-progesterone deficiency
• Prolactinemia

I like the program on the Babyplan website most of all.

Program:

Calculates the probability of pregnancy as a percentage,

Shows similar graphs,

• under each day you can make notes (discharge, menstruation, sexual intercourse, results of ovulation and pregnancy tests, taking pills),
• Under the chart you can keep a diary for the entire cycle, you can also post photos there

Days of probable ovulation and cycle length (except for the first cycle) are automatically calculated.

On the site you will also find a gallery with positive tests and liar tests, photos of pregnant bellies and ultrasound images, you can look at the BT charts of other users, make friends and contact the forum with any questions related to planning and pregnancy.

Here on this site - http://www.eovulation.ru/ovulation-calendar-online/ - you can calculate your ovulation (approximate date) by entering the average length of your menstrual cycle and the date of your last period.

You can build such a schedule on the website babyplan.ru or www.my-bt.ru. In the video you can see instructions on how to compile it, that is, how to use the program. And you can learn to understand the meaning of the graph by following the link on the same site or.

Here you can plot your basal temperature:

Here you can learn a lot about charts:

http://mamochka-club.com/bt/ here is a good site

It is better to chart your basal temperature from the first day of the menstrual cycle, i.e. from the first day of your period. Rectal temperature is measured daily in the morning and recorded in the basal temperature chart (a dot is placed at the level of the temperature value). It is necessary to record the current date on the basal temperature (BT) chart. The construction of a basal temperature chart should be continued until the start of the next menstruation. After the start of the next menstruation, start building a new BT schedule.

There is a good website where you can plot your basal temperature and then watch the graph of changes. Also on this site you can read about how to draw up this schedule correctly. Website my-bt.ru

You can plot your basal temperature online without registration at pinkcalendar.com. You can read about decoding here. But to build a graph and get a transcript of it, I found only a paid program. On the sites above, everything is clear and easily written about decryption, and you can easily do it yourself without purchasing paid programs.

He has access to web pages that allow you to plot your basal temperature:

http://pinkcalendar.com/index.php?action=basal_temperature

http://ovulation.org.ua/forum/topic5941.html