What is Basal Body Temperature (BBT)?
Basal body temperature is your body's temperature at complete rest. The body temperature rises slightly during ovulation. The most fertile days are usually the two to three days before this rise. Tracking these small changes daily can help you understand when you're most likely to conceive.In this article:
How does Basal Body Temperature Tracking Work for Conception?
After ovulation, your body temperature rises a little. This temperature rise happens because of progesterone (a hormone that prepares your uterus for pregnancy). The temperature change is small but steady enough to track.To use this method, you record your basal body temperature every morning for at least three cycles. Over time, you'll notice a pattern. This pattern will help you guess when you are likely to ovulate. If you want to conceive, having intercourse before ovulation is required.
How to Track Basal Body Temperature?
To track your basal body temperature, you will have to follow a few easy steps consistently. These steps include:Start with your period
To start tracking BBT, begin by tracking temperature on the first day of your period. Continue checking your temperature every morning until your next cycle starts. It may take a few cycles before you start noticing a clear pattern.Use the right thermometer
Choose a basal thermometer that measures to at least one-tenth of a degree. Digital oral thermometers can work too, but basal thermometers are more precise.Measure the temperature before getting out of bed
Keep your thermometer nearby. Once you wake up, take a note of your temperature before standing up or moving around.Stay consistent with timing
Check your temperature at the same time each day. Try to stay within 30 minutes of your usual time. To get accurate results, make sure you have had at least five hours of sleep.Pick one method and stick to it
You can measure your temperature orally, vaginally, or rectally. However, stick to the same method every day to keep your readings reliable.Record your temperature
Note down your reading daily on a chart or app. Over time, you'll notice a small rise, about 0.4°F (less than half a degree) after ovulation. If this rise continues for three days or more, it usually signals ovulation.Consider your fertile window
You're most fertile in the two to three days before your temperature rises. Since sperm can live inside your body for up to five days, plan to have intercourse in this window if you want to conceive. If you wish to avoid pregnancy, don't have unprotected intercourse until several days after your period.What are the Factors that can Affect Basal Body Temperature?
While fertility can impact basal body temperature, it is not the only factor. Temperature shifts in the body can happen for various reasons, such as:- Excessive stress
- Being sick
- Drinking alcohol
- Travelling
- Gynaecological disorders
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Effects of certain medications
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FAQs on Tracking Your Basal Body Temperature Can Help You Conceive: Here's How
- Can I use BBT tracking if I have irregular periods?
If you have irregular periods, then BBT tracking may not be the best method for you. Irregular cycles can make it difficult to track ovulation patterns accurately. - How long should I record my basal body temperature before seeing a doctor?
To see a proper pattern in your basal body temperature tracker, it may take about 3-4 months. Consult your doctor if you don't see your desired results or have irregular periods. - Are there any side effects of taking basal body temperature?
There are no physical side effects to measuring your basal body temperature. However, the method may be less reliable if your menstrual cycles are irregular or if you miss recordings. It's also important to note that this method does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
