Basal body temperature

Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

Basal body temperature (BBT) refers to the body's temperature when it is at complete rest. Monitoring BBT has been a method used to track ovulation and can be an effective tool for individuals attempting to conceive or using natural methods of birth control.

A BBT thermometer used to measure basal body temperature.

Overview

BBT is the lowest body temperature attained during rest, typically after a night's sleep. It is an indicator of the body's resting metabolic rate and can be influenced by hormonal changes, especially those that occur during a menstrual cycle.

How to Measure BBT

• Thermometer: A special BBT thermometer, which is more sensitive than regular thermometers, is used.
• Timing: It's essential to measure the temperature at the same time each morning before any activity, including getting out of bed.
• Consistency: For accurate tracking, measurements should be taken daily and recorded.

BBT and Ovulation

BBT can offer insights into ovulation:

• Before Ovulation: Progesterone levels are low, leading to lower temperatures.
• After Ovulation: The release of the egg causes a rise in progesterone, resulting in a temperature increase of about 0.5 to 1.0°F.

By tracking these temperature shifts, individuals can identify ovulation patterns and predict fertility windows.

Benefits and Limitations

Benefits:

• Natural method without side effects.
• Can aid in conceiving or avoiding conception.
• Offers insights into menstrual cycle patterns.

Limitations:

• External factors like illness, medication, or sleep disturbances can affect BBT.
• Requires consistent daily monitoring.
• Not as precise as some other ovulation detection methods.

See Also

• Menstrual Cycle
• Ovulation
• Natural Family Planning

References

• Mayo Clinic - Basal body temperature and ovulation
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Fertility awareness-based methods

Basal body temperature Resources
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