All about basal temperature: how to measure it, examples of graphs with interpretation, norm and deviations. Where can I plot my basal temperature online or download the program? Basal temperature chart without ovulation

Plotting a graph basal temperature

Please note that only registered users can create BT charts online.

It is better to build a basal temperature chart from the first day of the menstrual cycle, i.e. from the first day of menstruation. 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.

Using the marks for the first 10 days of the cycle, it is necessary to determine the highest of the “low” temperatures. Do not take into account very high temperatures due to fever or other conditions.
Then you need to draw a line at the highest temperature level. This line is called the covering or temperature line.

The non-fertile phase begins in the evening; 3 days of temperature rise above the covering line.

For contraception, you should refrain from raising the temperature above the covering temperature until the evening of 3 days. Sexual intercourse is possible until 1 day of the next menstruation.

The main purpose of plotting basal temperature is to determine the period of ovulation in a certain cycle. To determine the days of ovulation, you need to carefully study the BBT chart.

Pre-ovulation temperatures are kept low by estrogen, and after ovulation, progesterone raises them to high levels. An increase in basal temperature means that ovulation has occurred. This sign is not considered a fact of approaching ovulation compared to two other signs - cervical fluid, the position of the cervix. It is also necessary to remember that a decrease in temperature during ovulation occurs in a small number of women. Since a sudden drop in temperature is extremely rare, such a sign cannot be absolutely reliable when determining the ability to conceive, which means that to determine the onset of ovulation it is worth using the other two above-mentioned signs.

Options for raising basal temperature

The standard type accurately reflects the level of low temperatures, then a sharp rise of at least 0.2 degrees and the next high temperature, remaining until the end of this cycle. The schedules are common for most women. Although there are three more different types basal temperature rise chart:

step rise. The temperature rises sharply, remains at the same level for three days, then makes one sharp jump;

gradual rise. It rises gradually. Increasing by 0.1 degrees per day. In this case, the day of ovulation is determined according to various additional criteria;

rise with return. It begins to rise, the next day it falls below the dividing line, after which it rises again.

What do you need to know when measuring BT and drawing up graphs?

The difference between the average basal temperature of the second phase and the basal temperature of the first phase should be no less than 0.4-0.5 (except for cases where a small temperature difference is only a feature of a woman’s body, but not an indicator of the presence of certain disorders).

Women may have different cycle lengths. The first phase can vary greatly in duration. But, despite this, the length of the second phase of the cycle is the same for this woman, 12-16 days.
Knowing that the second phase begins after ovulation, you can roughly calculate the day of ovulation based on the known duration of a woman’s cycles.

For example, if the cycle length is 24 days, then 24 days -14 days (second phase) = 10, that is, ovulation occurs on the 10th day.

Attention!

the first day of the cycle is the first day of menstruation;

the duration of the menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of menstruation to the first day of the next menstruation;

You should not measure your basal temperature when taking oral contraceptives;

low or high temperature in two phases, provided that the temperature difference is not less than 0.4, is not a pathology. This is a feature of the body;

high temperature in the 1st phase indicates estrogen deficiency (this is a reason to go for a consultation with a gynecologist-endocrinologist);

low temperature in the 2nd phase indicates poor progesterone function;

if the basal temperature rises during menstruation, this indicates chronic endometritis (inflammation of the uterine mucosa). One of the reasons for infertility, because even if pregnancy is not planned, you need to go to the doctor, because different inflammatory processes do not add to reproductive health and can have tragic consequences;

if there is no menstruation, but the temperature remains within the 2nd phase for more than 18 days, there may be pregnancy. If menstruation is scanty and the temperature remains high, conception is possible against the background of the risk of miscarriage;

if in the 2nd phase the basal temperature has one or several drops, then this indicates the death of the egg, or extraneous factors influenced the temperature readings;

if throughout the entire cycle the basal temperature remains at approximately the same level or the BT chart has a “fence” appearance (low temperatures alternate with high ones), this means that ovulation did not occur in this cycle - anovulation. A healthy woman is allowed several anovulatory cycles per year, but if this repeats in all cycles, you should consult a doctor.

We build a basal temperature chart online

A graph based on temperature measurements helps girls identify the day of ovulation. In addition, with its help you can promptly notice deviations and suspect some kind of disease. Let's look at what a typical basal temperature chart is with examples and interpretation for a normal cycle, when pregnancy is detected, and in some pathologies.

Rules for measuring basal temperature

Many girls, when drawing up a basal temperature chart, make comparisons with examples on forums, which is not always correct, because everyone’s body is individual. In addition, you need to remember that the temperature is influenced by many factors, and therefore the lines are different for everyone and contain atypical “jumps” and dips.

Therefore, first of all, you need to study the rules for taking measurements so that the result is reliable:

• Use one thermometer. Do not alternate electronic with mercury.
• Take measurements first thing after waking up. You need to prepare everything in the evening (thermometer, a piece of paper for writing) so as not to even get out of bed. Do not make sudden movements, maintaining a calm state as much as possible.
• The testing time should be the same every day.
• Avoid heavy physical activity, taking hormonal medications, drinking alcohol while planning pregnancy, try not to be nervous, because All these factors affect the temperature and can distort the graph.
• You need to conduct observations for several months to identify your standards and learn to decipher them.

As we have already mentioned, temperature is affected by various deviations from the normal rhythm of life, illness, stressful situations, flights, climate change, etc. Therefore, in the schedule you need to make notes about the presence of some situation on a specific day. This will allow you to exclude irrelevant indicators during decryption. By the way, sexual intercourse can also change the temperature. After it, the body returns to normal only after 10-12 hours.

Basal temperature chart with examples and explanation

Normal schedule with two phases

Considering a typical, normal basal temperature graph and an example of constructing a curve, the following points should be noted:

1. The first few values ​​taken during menstruation do not play a special role.
2. It is necessary to draw a line that will be the average of the first stage. Normally, about 6 days should have the same values ​​(a deviation of 0.1°C is considered normal). If there is a “leap”, but there is an explanation for it, this day is simply not taken into account.
3. On the eve of ovulation, there is a drop from the average value by 0.2-0.4°C. This lasts 1-2 days.
4. The moment the egg appears is marked by a sharp increase in temperature - by 0.4-0.6°C. Before this jump, you can draw a vertical line that indicates ovulation.
5. After ovulation, there is a slow increase in temperature or a constant stay at elevated values.
6. 3-5 days before menstruation there is a decline - 0.1°C daily or more sharp - 0.2°C in two days, for example.

Anovulatory schedule

Every girl can have a cycle without egg maturation. It's normal if it happens once a year. In case of more frequent or constant absence of an egg, you need to consult a doctor and identify the cause of the pathology in order to prevent infertility.

On the graph, the anovulatory period is characterized by the following features:

• There are no drops in the middle of the cycle. This means that the cell did not appear.
• In the second part the temperature is almost at the same level as in the first. This shows the absence of progesterone produced after the cell exits.

If the line is in the same plane all the time, ovulation has not occurred. Without it, fertilization is impossible, and therefore it is necessary to visit a doctor, observing such a picture for the second time. There is no need to delay in order to receive treatment in a timely manner.

Basal temperature charts during pregnancy (examples)

What does the graph show during pregnancy?

Charts of basal temperature during pregnancy, examples of which can be considered below, are somewhat different, because conception occurs, which cannot but affect the indicators. The changes on the graph are shown as follows:

• The first phase occurs similarly to the previous cycles.
• After a sharp jump (ovulation), a rise in temperature is observed, which lasts more than 14 days. The absence of a decline 3-5 days before the expected menstruation clearly indicates a new condition.
• A confirmation of the girl’s condition is the implantation sinking by 0.2-0.3°C. It occurs approximately 7 days after the cell is released and lasts 1-2 days. Afterwards the line returns to higher values.

Implantation decline is not noticeable in every girl, and therefore maintaining a constant elevated temperature is considered a more relevant confirmation of pregnancy. It remains at this level after the delay and lasts until childbirth.

If a woman is pregnant, then after elevated temperature after the day of ovulation, persist until childbirth, as in the example graph.

Examples of graphs for hormone deficiency

By looking at basal temperature charts with examples, you can identify many deviations, each of which can pose a threat to health or indicate the need for treatment.

The normal progression of processes is influenced by hormones typical for each stage of the cycle. When they are imbalanced, temperature deviations are also observed. Thus, the lack of estrogen that accompanies cell maturation is expressed as follows:

• The line in the first part stays above 36.5°C.
• After ovulation, the rise takes over 3 days.
• In the second part, the values ​​are higher than normal – from 37.1°C.

In this state of affairs, fertilization is quite problematic.

Corpus luteum deficiency

Insufficiency of the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone necessary to maintain fertilization and pregnancy, is detected as follows:

• The temperature rises slowly after ovulation.
• Before menstruation there is an increase, not a decrease.
• The second period is less than 12-14 days.

Estrogen-progesterone deficiency

In any of the described cases of imbalance, a visit to a specialist is necessary. After testing for hormones, the doctor prescribes their substitutes. The intake should be carried out strictly according to the prescribed course and should not be canceled independently if pregnancy is suspected. Abrupt withdrawal of the drug can cause fetal rejection.

For the first cycle, clostilbegit is often prescribed, for the second - utrozhestan or duphaston. Using stimulant medications, the girl is more likely to notice the return of the schedule to normal: two phases with a temperature difference of 0.4-0.6 ° C and with obvious ovulation at their border.

If the schedule remains non-standard, with increased performance, you need to tell your doctor. Probably, the selected dose is not suitable and you need to change the course.

Hyperprolactinemia - graph indicators

Separately, it is worth noting the atypical schedule for elevated level prolactin. More often this situation is typical for breastfeeding women. They show the same indicators as pregnant women. The basal temperature chart during pregnancy, examples of which we have examined, is characterized by constantly high levels and the absence of menstruation.

This condition is called hyperprolactinemia. If this is a nursing mother, then there is nothing to worry about. After the allotted time, the prolactin level will decrease and the cycle will return to normal. If this is observed in a nulliparous girl, you need to visit a doctor and identify the reason for such hormone levels.

An example of a graph of basal temperature during pregnancy indicating hyperprolactinemia

Examples of graphs showing diseases

The graph, in addition to ovulation and the normal passage of the cycle, can also reveal some diseases.

Inflammation of the appendages is characterized by an increase for several days to 37°C in the first period, after which there is a decline before ovulation. The jump occurs very sharply, most often on days 6-7, and after several days there is an equally sharp decline. Sometimes such growth is mistaken for ovulation. A visit to the doctor is necessary because... With untreated inflammatory processes, the normal course of pregnancy is problematic.

Endometritis on the example of a graph

Endometritis can be identified by comparing the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next.

Rules for measuring basal temperature (video)

The video describes the most popular rules for measuring basal temperature; these are the basic recommendations, if followed, you can be sure of the correct measurement.

conclusions

• If an unusual rise or fall is noticed for one day, there is no need to worry. Any deviation cannot occur as an isolated incident. Here it is more likely that the measurement rules are violated or that external factors(lack of sleep, stress, colds).
• If the readings are higher or lower than normal, but the difference between the phases is at least 0.4°C, this is a normal cycle. Simply due to the characteristics of the body, the girl’s indicators do not meet the standard.
• If you observe the same atypical picture for more than two cycles, you need to visit a doctor. Despite the availability of graphs, he will make a diagnosis only after testing.
• Infertility is suspected: retraction of the line in the second period, in the middle the rise is observed for more than 3 days, the difference between the average values ​​of the phases is less than 0.4°C.
• Graphs showing the absence of cell release, cycle duration less than 21 days, length of the second phase less than 10 days, menstruation more than 5 days, delays, late ovulation should be the basis for contacting a doctor.
• If, with normal ovulation and sexual intercourse on these days, conception does not occur for more than 2-3 months, you need to undergo an examination to identify the cause.
• If there is a delay, high values ​​over 18 days, but a negative test, you need to urgently visit a doctor. It is possible to develop an ectopic pregnancy.

These are the conclusions for girls planning to conceive or already pregnant, who have kept or are keeping basal temperature charts, are common in the field of gynecology and are recommended by specialists

Every woman should monitor her health. To do this, you need to visit a gynecologist once every six months, if there are no deviations in your health. Many diseases in initial stage development may be asymptomatic.

To identify possible system failures female body, it is recommended to draw a basal temperature chart. Any physiological and pathological changes will be able to identify the measurements being taken.

The concept of basal temperature

Basal temperature (BT) is the temperature of the body's blood during sleep. It is measured in the rectum. It can also be detected in the vagina or mouth. But cyclic fluctuations can be shown by rectal temperature. This occurs due to the peculiarities of the blood supply to the ovaries. Other measurement methods are also capable of capturing cyclical fluctuations, but only when they are pronounced.

Only rectal temperature can determine subtle changes in heat exchange in the ovarian vein. You need to understand two things:

1. If there is no opportunity (or desire) to regularly measure BT rectally, it is better not to use this method at all.
2. The basal (rectal) temperature chart is not used to make a diagnosis or prescribe treatment.

Any deviations from the standards should be discussed with a gynecologist.

Purpose of the method

To correctly understand what basal temperature is, you need to understand why this method is useful. Its main advantage is the ability to clearly define the processes of each phase of the cycle and identify possible deviations in the functioning of the body.

The norm established by medical specialists is an ideal. Each organism has its own characteristics. To take them into account and be able to draw a correct conclusion, observations are carried out for at least 3 months. It is recommended to plot your basal temperature for several reasons:

1. The method allows you to determine the moment of ovulation and highlight days favorable for conception.
2. Rectal temperature changes in a certain way during pregnancy. This suggests that the woman is in a position early stages.
3. Measuring BT helps determine the causes of infertility.
4. Makes it possible to identify the presence of pathologies in the body.
5. With its help you can check the quality of the endocrine system.

However, it is possible to achieve sufficient information content of the method only if the rules for constructing a BT graph are followed. In order to adequately draw it, it is necessary to clearly fulfill a number of requirements.

Data Collection Rules

Rectal temperature is measured according to certain rules. The correctness of the result depends on this. The method has a number of requirements:

1. Data collection is carried out at one time with a maximum deviation of 30 minutes.
2. The thermometer should be prepared in advance so that you do not have to get out of bed. You should move as little as possible, otherwise the temperature will increase by 0.1–0.2 thermometer divisions. This will affect the decoding of the result.
3. Measurements are taken daily, including the menstrual phase.
4. Continuous sleep before the next BT measurement should be at least 4 hours.
5. Illness, stress, increased loads affect the result. Therefore, if there are such facts, notes should be made in the notes.
6. You must use the same thermometer. A mercury device is preferable, although an electronic version can also be used.

All results are immediately recorded in the log. Based on them, a schedule is built.

Plotting a graph

To make data collection results easier to interpret, they are usually presented graphically. Deciphering such information should be done by a qualified specialist. A woman can independently construct such graphs in several cycles.

It is possible to complete the drawing manually or use an online program. This will make the diagnostic process easier for the gynecologist.

Charting technology

All measurements recorded in the log must be presented graphically. If it is preferable to make the drawing manually, you should take a piece of paper in a cell and draw an x-axis (X), on which each cell corresponds to a day of the menstrual cycle. Accordingly, the ordinate (Y) axis is assigned to degrees. One cell is equal to 0.1 thermometer division.

The entire cycle must fit on one sheet. You should not record readings for several periods on one chart. This leads to errors and difficulties during decoding.

A basal temperature of 37.0 is an important limit in this study. Therefore, at this level a line is drawn parallel to the abscissa axis. All measurement results are plotted on a graph in the form of points. They are then connected in series. The norm is determined only after several months of research.

There are a large number of programs on the Internet that simplify the process of plotting. The research results are entered online into the appropriate cells. The program will build a smooth graph. This approach is as informative as drawing by hand.

Notes on the chart

Basal temperature in early pregnancy and during the cycle without conception is different. However, to see this difference, you need to do the research correctly.

Any little thing that a woman might not have paid attention to before can affect the result. Therefore, it is necessary to record not only the thermometer readings, but also a number of additional data. Without them, basal temperature in early pregnancy can easily be perceived as an abnormality or go unnoticed altogether. Factors that can influence BT include a number of conditions:

• Diseases with increased general body temperature.
• Intimacy in the evening or at night.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Short period of sleep.
• Unusual measurement time.
• Taking sleeping pills.

A graph of basal temperature can be drawn by omitting single unreliable data. This should be noted in the notes. The type of discharge from the genital tract is also indicated here daily.

With the onset of pregnancy, gynecological diseases, and hormonal imbalances, their nature changes.

Normal chart type

The individual characteristics of a woman’s body affect the appearance of the graph. Each representative of the fair sex has her own norm. However, there are general principles, allowing you to understand what your basal temperature should be.

The following statements are considered examples of normal graphs. They are considered in the context of the cycle with conception and in its absence.

Normal schedule for a period without conception

To answer the question of what basal temperature a non-pregnant girl should have, we need to consider the features of the menstrual cycle. It consists of follicular and luteal phases.

During the maturation of the egg, estrogen is produced, and after its release into the fallopian tube, the amount of progesterone in the blood serum increases. From the first day of the cycle (the beginning of menstruation), BT drops to the limit of 36.3–36.5 degrees. It remains this way in the follicular phase.

2 weeks before the expected date of the next menstruation, a sharp increase in indicators is observed. A basal temperature of 37.0–37.2 indicates that ovulation has occurred.

Moreover, the difference between the second and first phases should be 0.4–0.5 degrees.

This process is influenced by progesterone, which is intensely produced in the luteal phase. It prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. If it has not occurred, then 24–48 hours before menstruation, measurements will show a gradual decrease to 36.8–37.0 degrees.

Normal during pregnancy

Many couples are interested in what basal temperature during pregnancy is considered normal. This is a really important indicator. When pregnancy occurs, progesterone is actively produced. He is responsible for the processes of the correct course of this state.

Rectal temperature during pregnancy in the first obstetric weeks is completely identical to the chart without conception having occurred. The normal BBT after ovulation in this case is recognized in the range of 37.0–37.2 degrees.

One of the first signs of successful conception is the absence of a decrease in this indicator before the day of the expected menstruation.

If there is a delay at a high level of the measured indicator, you should consult a doctor. After undergoing an appropriate examination, the gynecologist will be able to accurately diagnose the cause of this condition.

The graph will also clearly show the implantation temperature drop over several days. This is due to the attachment of the fertilized egg in the uterine cavity and the hormonal changes that occur. All these factors lead to a temporary recess of the curve on the graph.

Basal temperature during pregnancy remains high, which indicates a sufficient amount of progesterone.

Deviations from the standard schedule

The normal basal temperature indicators are determined after consultation with a doctor. Only a medical specialist, based on the examinations performed, will help to adequately understand the signals of the female body. Deviations in the course of various processes can be caused by various factors.

Hormonal disbalance

Improper production of progesterone and estrogen is shown in the drawing as the absence of a sharp jump in temperature in the middle of the cycle. If ovulation has not occurred this month, the indicator curve will not have any sharp rises or falls. Luteal phase deficiency is characterized by a duration of less than 12 days.

A basal temperature during pregnancy of 36.6–36.9 also indicates insufficient progesterone production. This threatens spontaneous abortion. You need to go to the hospital immediately.

But estrogen deficiency is determined high level temperatures in the follicular phase. If this indicator is above 36.7 before the middle of the cycle, you should consult a medical specialist.

Inflammatory processes

In addition to the violations listed above hormonal levels, the graph can show the presence of inflammatory processes. This situation is reflected in the form of fluctuations in the curve and an increase in temperature.

With inflammation of the appendages, such a picture will not even allow you to determine the moment of ovulation. Sharp declines and rises indicate deviations of an inflammatory nature.

An increase in rectal temperature before the next menstruation allows one to suspect the development of endometritis. The graph will show a slight decrease in the curve in last days cycle, and then its increase to 37.0.

If your period has not started, you may be pregnant. But in its absence, such a condition indicates a possible pathology.

Today, the method of determining basal temperature is recognized as a fairly reliable method for identifying various processes in the body.

By following all the rules for collecting data, a woman can get a true result with a large share probabilities. This will help her gynecologist quickly draw conclusions about the state of her health and, if necessary, take timely measures to prevent the development of pathology.

Measuring basal temperature (BT). Rules. Decoding basal temperature charts

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

Measuring basal body temperature BT - a simple functional test that every woman can learn at home. The method is based on the hyperthermic (temperature) effect of progesterone on the 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 in the early stages with a delay in menstruation.
3. By regularly measuring basal temperature, you can determine the possible cause of a missed period: 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 reasons 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 on that day or the day before that could affect basal temperature (BT): alcohol intake, flight, stress, acute respiratory infections, inflammatory diseases, increased exercise stress, sexual intercourse the night before or in the morning, reception medicines- sleeping pills, hormones, psychotropic drugs, etc. All these factors can affect basal temperature and make the study unreliable.

When taking oral contraceptives, measuring BT makes no sense!

Thus, to create a complete graph of 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 the discharge from the cervical canal becomes 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 as a reliable sign of 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 the 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, normally, every healthy woman should have 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 graph of basal temperature (BT), which you see below, reflects two normal physiological states that a healthy woman can have: 1-lilac curve - basal temperature (BT), which should be during a normal menstrual cycle, ending with menstruation; 2- light green curve - basal temperature (BT) of a woman with a normal menstrual cycle, 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. Then, in the second phase, the basal temperature (BT) continues to rise by 0.4-0.6 degrees compared to the first phase - in this case, up to 37 degrees, and this temperature (marked with a burgundy line) remains until the end of the menstrual cycle and before the start menstruation drops 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-positive results of measuring basal temperature (an increase in basal temperature in the absence of the corpus luteum) can occur with acute and chronic infections, as well as with some changes in the higher parts of the central nervous system.

Important to know when charting your basal temperature!

1. Normally, the menstrual cycle 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 chart as an example, the most favorable days for conception will be days 12, 13 and 14 of the cycle. And one more nuance: you may not detect a 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 these are possible signs of a 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 the range of 36.2-36.7 C. If the basal BT temperature in the first phase rises above the indicated mark and if you see sharp jumps and rises on the graph, then most likely there is a lack of 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 can see in this graph with sharp declines and rises that, due to the inflammatory process, it is problematic to determine when ovulation occurred, since the basal BT temperature 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 onset of menstruation and does not decrease, as can be seen in the graph, we may be talking about a serious 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

Not many women know how to correctly measure and chart basal temperature, but all representatives of the fairer sex should have this skill. After all, measuring basal temperature is necessary not only for any pathology, but will help you understand your body and shed light on many questions.

What does the term “basal temperature” mean?

Basal temperature is the lowest body temperature that was recorded after a long state of rest, that is, sleep. Basal temperature is measured in the rectum, vagina or mouth. Unlike true temperature, basal temperature is always slightly higher (just a couple of tenths of degrees). Gynecologists believe that the most indicative is the basal temperature measured in the rectum, which is why its other name is rectal temperature.

The need to measure basal temperature

Measuring basal temperature and charting it is one of the tests functional diagnostics. And although this method has been used for a long time, it has not lost its relevance to this day, since measuring basal temperature not only helps in diagnosing gynecological diseases, but the method itself is simple and cheap.

In what cases is basal temperature measurement indicated:

• desire to get pregnant, and this requires setting the day of ovulation;
• protection against unwanted pregnancy, that is, the definition of so-called safe days;
• How additional method diagnostics for inflammatory diseases pelvic organs;
• disruptions in hormonal regulation (, recurrent miscarriage, ovarian dysfunction);
• infertility (it doesn’t matter which partner is “guilty”);
• establishing the duration of the phases of the menstrual cycle and ovulation;
• delay of menstruation and establishing its cause (possibly pregnancy);
• threatened or incipient miscarriage (assessment of treatment effectiveness and positive/negative dynamics);
• calculate the time of the next menstruation;
• desire to become pregnant with a child of a certain gender.

In order for the compiled basal temperature chart to be as informative as possible, its measurement must be carried out over (at least) three menstrual cycles and without a break (the temperature was recorded one month, but not the next - incorrectly). Firstly, this need is due to the fact that during the course of a year, even a healthy woman can experience one or two anovulatory cycles, and, secondly, it is possible to identify the influence of certain circumstances in one cycle, which, accordingly, makes the graph non-indicative ( and for comparison there are several other menstrual cycles).

But the main thing that every woman should know is that measuring basal temperature while taking hormonal contraceptive pills is an absolutely waste of time, since the artificial hormones contained in the pills suppress both ovulation and the production of their own hormones.

How to measure basal temperature correctly

In order for the compiled graph to display the correct results, and therefore be able to help in diagnosing pathology, you need to know how to measure basal temperature correctly. The main condition for measuring temperature is responsibility and discipline. The list includes a few simple rules:

• temperature measurement is carried out immediately after waking up (preliminary “trips” to the toilet, drinking water, etc. are excluded);
• The duration of sleep should be at least 3 hours, and preferably 6;
• once the thermometer is installed, you should not move or reduce movements to a minimum for the duration of the measurement (physical activity increases the temperature);
• temperature measurement must be carried out at a certain time (plus or minus an hour);
• A mercury thermometer is preferable for measuring basal temperature;
• the thermometer should be “at hand” (on the bedside table or table);
• when measuring temperature in the mouth or vagina, the measurement time is at least 5 minutes, and when measuring in the rectum, at least 3 minutes;
• Temperature measurements are also carried out on menstruation days;
• Shake the mercury thermometer in the evening;
• record temperature data immediately after measurement;
• carry out the measurement using one method (if it was carried out in the rectum, continue to measure the temperature rectally;
• There must be only one thermometer; replacing it is not allowed.

What thermometer is used to measure basal temperature?

There are 2 types of thermometers. The first – “old” version – is mercury, and the second – modern – electronic. Many believe that it is better to measure basal temperature with a modern electronic thermometer, and they would be wrong. An electronic thermometer shows temperature with errors and is good only for a one-time temperature determination, but basal temperature must be measured for at least three months and errors can blur the existing picture. Therefore, to measure basal temperature, you must use a regular mercury thermometer.

When determining the temperature in the rectum with an electronic thermometer, you should follow the rules for using the device. When the temperature measurement process is completed, the thermometer beeps, indicating the need to remove it. The final value should not be recorded immediately after extraction, but after 0.5 - 1 minute, because the temperature on the scale will continue to rise for some time.

How to chart your basal temperature

For convenience, both drawing up and reading a graph of basal temperature, it should be placed on a double notebook sheet in a cage. The days of the menstrual cycle and the date are marked horizontally, and the basal temperature readings vertically. From the point of 37 degrees horizontally, draw a red line parallel to the line of the days of the cycle. This is a control line that will make it easier to read the graph and highlight the phases of the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

“Selections” should be entered in a separate column (below, under the horizontal line). The quality and quantity of vaginal discharge is associated with the phase of the menstrual cycle. For example, on the eve and on the day of ovulation they are liquid, abundant and look like egg white, and in the second phase the discharge is thicker and has a milky color.

Even lower, the “miscellaneous” column is highlighted. This column includes any force majeure circumstances: air travel, alcohol consumption, business trip, sex at night or in the morning, short sleep, colds, etc.

The points that are plotted on the graph daily and indicating temperature values ​​are connected to each other. This creates a broken line.

In a healthy woman, the menstrual cycle is divided into 2 phases: follicular and luteal, which is clearly visible on the graph, since the curve will be broken, at first the temperature stays below 37 degrees, then it jumps sharply and becomes above 37. In the follicular phase, estrogens are active, under by which the main follicle matures, so the graph will display a curve below 37 degrees. The follicular phase lasts about 12 – 14 days. On the eve of ovulation, the temperature drops by 0.2 - 0.4 degrees (preovulatory relapse), and with its onset the temperature soars and becomes 0.2 - 0.4 degrees above the 37-degree line. Then the luteal phase begins, which lasts for 14 days, and the graphic line will be above 37 degrees. This increase in temperature in the second phase is explained by the action of progesterone, which affects the thermoregulation center. Before menstruation, progesterone levels drop, which means the schedule will decrease. If the temperature remains the same (above 37), and menstruation does not begin, this indicates a possible pregnancy.

Measuring basal temperature during pregnancy

A basal temperature chart may be the first sign of pregnancy before your period is missed. As mentioned above, basal temperature data fluctuates and depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle, which is determined by sex hormones. If in the follicular (first) phase the temperature should normally be below 37 degrees, then in the luteal or second phase the temperature will rise above 37 and remain at this level for about 14 days (plus or minus 2 days). On the eve of ovulation, its retraction occurs, and immediately after the release of the egg from the ovary, it increases by 0.4 - 0.5 degrees and begins to decrease only before the start of the next menstruation. If the temperature does not decrease on the eve of the expected menstruation and still remains above 37 degrees, then pregnancy can be assumed. The absence of menstruation on time plus an increased basal temperature requires a pregnancy test, which in 99% of cases will be positive.

The method of determining a probable pregnancy by basal temperature only works for ovulatory cycles that were previously confirmed either by a basal temperature chart, or by ovulation tests, or by ultrasound. But if there is no ovulation, then no matter how long the temperature is raised, this does not indicate that conception has occurred, even if there is no regular menstruation. For example, with hyperprolactinemia, when the pituitary gland produces an increased amount of prolactin, which is responsible for milk production, both signs may be present: a basal temperature above 37 degrees and the absence of menstruation.

From the above it becomes clear that basal temperature during early pregnancy remains high until the expected menstruation and does not decrease the rest of the time (against the background of delayed menstruation and subject to confirmed ovulation in previous cycles).

Implantation retraction

Speaking about the graph of basal temperature during pregnancy, one cannot remain silent about such a phenomenon as implantation retraction. Implantation is the process of implantation of a fertilized egg into the uterine lining. That is, until this moment, even with the fusion of the egg and sperm, it is premature to talk about pregnancy. Only when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall and establishes a connection with the mother’s body can we assume that conception has occurred and the pregnancy continues to develop.

Against the background of implantation retraction, a small (0.1 - 0.3 degrees) drop in temperature occurs in the second phase of the cycle (the woman does not yet know about the pregnancy and is expecting her period). If the moment of ovulation is clearly visible on the temperature graph, since the difference between ovulation and the beginning of the luteal phase of the cycle is 0.5 degrees, then implantation retraction is characterized by slight fluctuations, so it is quite difficult to notice it. This phenomenon is observed approximately 7–9 days after the release of the egg from the ovary. This sign does not serve as a 100% guarantee of pregnancy. Additional criteria for this phenomenon are implantation bleeding (1–2 drops of pink or reddish color on underwear), which is also not observed in all women.

Ectopic pregnancy

Many women believe that basal temperature during ectopic pregnancy doesn't rise. In reality this statement is false. It doesn’t matter where the fertilized egg is implanted, in the uterus, in the tube or somewhere else, progesterone and hCG will be produced in any case.

Therefore, the basal temperature during an ectopic pregnancy will be above 37 degrees. From which it follows that it is impossible to determine the location of the embryo from the basal temperature graph.

Normal basal temperature readings

It is not recommended for all women to measure basal temperature, and even more so, it is not measured throughout the entire period of pregnancy, but only up to 12 weeks. As a rule, the doctor recommends keeping a temperature chart for women at high risk for miscarriage (difficult working conditions, complications of past pregnancies, such as miscarriages, premature birth, etc.).

Basal temperature during pregnancy is normally in the range of 37.1 - 37.3 degrees, but higher values ​​(up to 38) are not considered pathological. Any deviation from the norm requires immediate consultation with a doctor.

Decrease in basal temperature

An unfavorable sign is a decrease in basal temperature in the first trimester of pregnancy. This indicates a threat of termination or a frozen pregnancy. Moreover, a drop in basal temperature is possible even before the appearance of clinical manifestations (bloody issues, aching or nagging pain in the lower abdomen and/or lower back). A drop in basal temperature is said to occur when it reaches 37 degrees or below. The same sign - low temperature It is also observed during ectopic pregnancy, on the eve of or at the time of rupture of the fallopian tube or tubal abortion.

Increase in basal temperature

If the basal temperature is above 38 degrees for several days, this also indicates trouble in the body. Inflammatory processes of the genital organs, colds and other diseases are not excluded.

But elevated temperature can also be caused by other factors:

• violation of measurement rules;
• taking medications;
• motor activity before and at the time of measurement, and others.