Basal body temperature method

Basal Body Temperature Method

The Basal Body Temperature Method (BBT) is a type of Natural Family Planning method that involves tracking the body's temperature upon waking to determine the time of ovulation. This method is often used by women who are trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy.

Overview

The Basal Body Temperature Method is based on the fact that a woman's body temperature rises slightly (about 0.5 to 1.0 degrees Fahrenheit) after ovulation due to the release of the hormone progesterone. By tracking these temperature changes over several menstrual cycles, a woman can predict when she is most likely to ovulate in the future.

Method

To use the Basal Body Temperature Method, a woman must take her temperature every morning before getting out of bed, using a special basal body thermometer that is sensitive enough to measure small changes in body temperature. The temperature readings are then recorded on a BBT chart, which can be used to identify patterns and predict future ovulation.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the Basal Body Temperature Method depends on how accurately and consistently it is used. According to the American Pregnancy Association, when used correctly, the BBT method can be about 75-88% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Limitations

While the Basal Body Temperature Method can be a useful tool for predicting ovulation, it has several limitations. For one, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, various factors such as illness, lack of sleep, and alcohol consumption can affect basal body temperature and potentially skew the results.

See Also

• Natural Family Planning
• Ovulation
• Fertility Awareness