Print the basal temperature form. Bt chart online. Rationale for the basal body temperature method

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

Day of the month
cycle day
BT
Notes: Abundant or moderate discharge, abnormalities that can affect BBT: general illness, including fever, diarrhea, intercourse in the evening (especially in the morning), drinking alcohol the day before, measuring BBT at an unusual time, going to bed late (for example, went to bed at 3 o'clock, and measured at 6), taking sleeping pills, stress, etc.

The column "Notes" contains all the factors that in one way or another could affect the change in basal temperature.

This form of recording 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 during the cycle changes under the influence of hormones.

During the maturation of the egg against the background of a high level of estrogens (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 time, ovulation takes place. After ovulation, the high temperature phase 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 takes place completely in the high temperature phase. The difference between the "low" (hypothermic) and "high" (hyperthermic) phases is 0.4-0.8 °C. Only with accurate measurement of basal body temperature can one fix 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 temperature level in the second phase of the cycle.

Usually during menstruation, the temperature is kept at 37 ° C. During the maturation of the follicle (the first phase of the cycle), the temperature does not exceed 37°C. Before ovulation itself, it decreases (the result of the action of estrogen), and after it, the basal temperature rises to 37.1 ° C and above (the effect of progesterone). Until the next menstruation, the basal temperature remains elevated and slightly decreases 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 small amount of estrogen in the body and requires correction with drugs 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 a low level of progesterone, and drugs are also prescribed here to correct the hormonal background. This should be done only after passing the appropriate tests for hormones and prescribing a doctor.

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 (monotonous curve) or significant temperature fluctuations, 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).
The delay in the 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 to 9 days after ovulation, which is approximately the time a fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall.

By making a chart of basal temperature, you can not only determine when you ovulate, but also find out what processes are taking place in your body.

Decoding charts of basal temperature. Examples

If the basal temperature chart is built correctly, taking into account the measurement rules, it can reveal not only the presence or absence of ovulation, but also some diseases.

Break 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 various negative factors could affect the temperature (see temperature measurement rules). This line does not allow any conclusions to be drawn from the graph and is for illustration 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 midline and the three temperatures must be at least 0.1 degrees on two of the three days 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 according to 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 next temperature by more than 0.2 degrees. Such temperatures should not be taken into account when calculating ovulation if the basal temperature graph is generally normal.

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

Menstrual cycle length

The total cycle length 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 needs to be treated by a gynecologist.

Second phase length

The basal temperature graph is divided into the first and second phases. The separation takes place where the ovulation line (vertical) is affixed. Accordingly, the first phase of the cycle is the segment of the graph before ovulation, and the second phase of the cycle 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 an individual norm. At the same time, in a healthy woman in different cycles, there should not be 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 revealed on the graphs and confirmed by subsequent hormonal studies is the insufficiency of the second phase. If you have been measuring your basal temperature for 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 a lack of the second phase.

temperature difference

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

An increase in basal temperature occurs when the level of progesterone in the blood serum exceeds 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 noted at approximately 20% of ovulatory cycles. A simple statement of a two-phase basal temperature does not prove the normal function of the corpus luteum either. Basal temperature also cannot be used to determine the time of ovulation, since a two-phase basal temperature is also observed during luteinization of a non-ovulated follicle. Nevertheless, the duration of the luteal phase in accordance with the data of basal temperature and the low rate of rise are accepted by many authors as criteria for diagnosing the syndrome of luteinization of a non-ovulating follicle.

Five main types of temperature curves are described in classic gynecological manuals.

On such graphs, there is an increase in temperature in the second phase of the cycle by at least 0.4 C; noticeable "preovulatory" and "premenstrual" temperature drop. The duration of the temperature increase after ovulation is 12-14 days. Such a curve is typical of a normal biphasic menstrual cycle.

The graph example 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 weakly pronounced 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 chart examples below.

If such schedules are repeated from cycle to cycle, then this may indicate hormonal disruptions that cause infertility.

Basal temperature begins to rise only shortly before menstruation, while there is no "premenstrual" temperature drop. The second phase of the cycle may last less than 10 days. Such a curve is typical for a two-phase menstrual cycle with insufficiency of the second phase. See chart examples below.

Pregnancy in such a cycle is possible, but it is at risk from the very beginning. At this point, a woman still cannot know about the onset of pregnancy, even gynecologists would find it difficult to make a diagnosis at such an early date. With such a schedule, we can talk not about infertility, but about miscarriage. Be sure to contact your gynecologist if you have such a schedule for 3 cycles.

In a cycle without ovulation, the corpus luteum is not formed, which produces the hormone progesterone and affects the increase in basal body temperature. In this case, the temperature rise is not visible on the basal temperature chart and ovulation is not detected. If there is no ovulation line on the chart, in this case 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 monotonic curve occurs when there is no pronounced rise throughout the cycle. Such a schedule is observed during an anovulatory (ovulation is absent) cycle. See chart examples below.

On average, a woman has one anovulatory cycle per year and there is no cause for concern in this case. But anovulatory schedules that are repeated from cycle to cycle are a very serious reason to contact 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 swings, it does not fit into any of the above types. This type of curve can be observed both in severe estrogen deficiency and depend on random factors. Chart examples below.

High basal temperature in the first phase

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

Estrogen deficiency

In the first phase of the cycle in the female body, the hormone estrogen dominates. Under the influence of this hormone, the basal temperature before ovulation is kept on average in the range from 36.2 to 36.5 degrees. If the temperature in the first phase rises and stays above this mark, 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 kept at this level. To increase the level of estrogen, gynecologists-endocrinologists will prescribe hormonal drugs.

Estrogen deficiency also leads to an increased temperature in the second phase of the cycle (above 37.1 degrees), while the rise in temperature is slow and takes more than 3 days.

On the example of the 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 the 17th and 18th day of the cycle is insignificant. Fertilization in a cycle with such a schedule is very problematic.

Inflammation of the appendages

Another reason for an 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 charts, the calculation of ovulation is difficult, since such a rise "masks" the ovulatory rise.

On the example of the graph, the temperature in the first phase of the cycle is kept at 37.0 degrees, the increase occurs sharply and also falls sharply. A rise in temperature on day 6 of the cycle can be mistaken for an ovulatory rise, but in fact it most likely indicates inflammation. Therefore, it is so important to measure the temperature throughout the cycle in order to exclude such a scenario: the temperature rose due to inflammation, then fell again and then rose due to the onset of 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 onset of menstruation and rises again to 37.0 degrees with the onset of menstruation (less often on day 2-3 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 is kept at this level, then pregnancy can be assumed, despite the onset of bleeding. Take a pregnancy test and consult a gynecologist who will conduct an ultrasound for 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 evaluating the entire graph, and not a separate temperature in the first phase. In diseases accompanied by high or elevated body temperature, it makes no sense to measure basal temperature, and even more so to judge its nature and analyze the graph.

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 the level of 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.

Insufficiency of the corpus luteum

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

The temperature in case of corpus luteum insufficiency rises shortly before menstruation, and there is no "premenstrual" fall. This may indicate hormonal deficiency. The diagnosis is based on a blood test for progesterone in the second phase of the cycle. If its values ​​are lowered, then usually the gynecologist prescribes a progesterone substitute: utrogestan or duphaston. These drugs are taken strictly after the onset of ovulation. With the onset of pregnancy, the reception 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 the insufficiency of the second phase.

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

Estrogen-progesterone deficiency

If, in combination with a low temperature in the second phase, your graph 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 the 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, as well as during pregnancy, may be absent. An example of a basal temperature chart for hyperprolactinemia

Basal temperature chart for ovulation stimulation

When ovulation is stimulated, in particular with clomiphene (clostilbegit) using duphaston in the second phase of the mc, 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” (the temperature rises 2 times) and a slight sinking. If the temperature schedule during stimulation, on the contrary, is violated and deviates from the 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 during stimulation with clomiphene also occurs with individual sensitivity to the drug.

Special cases of the 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 observe the rules for measuring temperature and observe the described problems on your basal temperature graph for at least 2 cycles in a row, contact your doctor for additional examinations. Beware of making diagnoses by a gynecologist only on the basis of charts. What you need to pay attention to:

anovulatory charts
regular cycle delays in case of non-approaching pregnancy
late ovulation and not getting pregnant for several cycles
controversial schedules with indistinct ovulation
high temperature charts throughout the cycle
low temperature curves throughout the cycle
schedules with a short (less than 10 days) second phase
charts with 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
graphs with well-defined ovulation, regular intercourse during ovulation and no pregnancy 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 drops in temperature (the temperature drops below 37°C).
The rise in temperature in the middle of the cycle lasts more than 3-4 days.
The second phase is short (less than 8 days).

Definition of pregnancy by basal temperature

The method of determining pregnancy by basal temperature works subject to the presence of ovulation in the cycle, since with some health disorders, the basal temperature can be increased for an arbitrarily long time, and menstruation may be absent. A striking example of such a violation is hyperprolactinemia, due to 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 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, the 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, the basal temperature decreases, and immediately after ovulation it rises 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 the onset of pregnancy.

This method of determining pregnancy works subject to the presence of ovulation in the cycle, since with some health disorders, the basal temperature can be increased for an arbitrarily long time, and menstruation may be absent. A striking example of such a violation is hyperprolactinemia, due to 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 the pregnancy. A decrease in basal temperature during pregnancy may indicate a lack of hormones that maintain pregnancy and the threat of its termination.

With the onset of pregnancy, in most cases, on the 7th - 10th day after ovulation, implantation occurs - 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 of implantation or its absence either on the basis of the schedule or with the help of ultrasound at a gynecologist's appointment. However, there are several signs that may indicate implantation has taken place. All these signs can be detected on the 7-10th day after ovulation:

It is possible that these days there are small discharges that disappear within 1-2 days. This may be the so-called implantation bleeding. At the time of the introduction of the egg into the inner lining of the uterus, the endometrium is damaged, which leads to minor discharge. But if you have regular discharge in the middle of the cycle, and pregnancy does not occur, then you should contact the gynecology center.

A sharp decrease in temperature to the level of the midline 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 decline from the middle of the second phase, when pregnancy occurs, its production resumes again, which leads to temperature fluctuations. Secondly, during the onset of 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 depression on the graph.

Your chart has become triphasic, which means you are seeing an ovulation-like rise in temperature on the chart during the second phase of your cycle. This rise is again due to increased production of the hormone progesterone after implantation.

On the example of the graph - 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, indigestion, or just feeling pregnant also do not give an accurate answer. You may not be pregnant if you have all of these signs, or you may be pregnant without a single symptom.

All these signs can be a confirmation of the onset of pregnancy, but you should not rely on them, since there are many examples in which the signs were present, but the pregnancy did not occur. Or, conversely, with the onset of pregnancy, there were no signs. The most reliable conclusions can be drawn if there is a clear rise in temperature on your chart, you had 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.

Basal temperature measurement is one of the main fertility tracking methods recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). for details, see the WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria for the Use of Contraceptive Methods page 117.

When using the basal temperature method to prevent unwanted pregnancy, you need to consider that not only the days of ovulation according to the basal temperature schedule can be dangerous. Therefore, in 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 a basal temperature chart, which you can print out and show to your doctor. You can download it from the link: .

Charts are discussed on the forum

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 with the female body. This article will provide basal temperature charts with examples and transcripts, as well as what basal temperature is for and what it means.

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

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

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

• establish how the maturation of the egg takes place;
• determine the ovulatory period;
• approximate date of the next menstruation;
• not infrequently, according to the indications of BT, it is possible to determine a possible endometritis.

It is necessary to measure BBT within 3 cycles, this will provide more accurate information about the date of a favorable conception. An experienced gynecologist will help decipher the readings of the graph. Also, an example of basal temperature charts can be seen on the Internet online.

BBT thermometer

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

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

Correct BBT measurement

Accurate and efficient scheduling requires compliance with certain rules:

• measurement of BT should be daily, if possible and during menstruation or at the time of a respiratory illness;
• temperature measurements are carried out in the rectum, in the mouth or in the vagina. The main rule is that the place of measurement does not change throughout the cycle. Doctors still strongly recommend measuring the vaginal temperature. If BBT is measured rectally or vaginally, then the narrow part of the device is carefully inserted into the required place for 3-4 minutes;
• you need to measure BT immediately in the morning after waking up without getting up, this is a strict rule, moreover, at the same time. Measuring basal temperature an hour after sleep or during the day may not give accurate results;
• measurement is carried out only in the supine position. Therefore, you will need to prepare your thermometer in the evening and put it next to the bed. If you need to go to the toilet, then you will also have to endure a couple of minutes. Excessive activity will give an unreliable result;
• after measuring BBT, 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 should also be measured after 4 hours of uninterrupted 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 specify all the parameters that can affect the BT. These include: vaginal discharge, having sex the day before, the manifestation of 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, the basal temperature chart can be downloaded from any medical site related to gynecology.

BBT changes relative to the cycle

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

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

If measurements are taken at the time of menstruation, then the temperature will be exactly 37 degrees, and after the end of ovulation, it rises to 37.-1-37.1 under the influence of progesterone.

If the graph showed that BBT 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 drugs. In the case when the second phase is characterized by a low temperature relative to the first, then we are talking about low progesterone.

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

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

Deciphering and examples of BT charts

When the schedule is built 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, namely in the first phase. This is how a normal basal temperature graph looks like, without pathologies and deviations. We do not take into account only those days where the result could be distorted under the influence of taking drugs, viral diseases, sexual contact the day before, etc.

Effects of ovulation

To determine ovulation, you need to use the standard rules:

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

The duration of the second phase

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

As practice shows, quite often there is a failure in the 2nd phase. If you noted that this phase is shorter by 8-10 days, then this is a serious reason to see a doctor.

If we talk about the norm of BT, 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 we refer to the example of the chart above, we can see that 2 days before ovulation, BBT decreases.

Hormonal deficiency: progesterone estrogen

With this insufficiency, it will be possible to 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 disruptions. As for the 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 up to three times a year in a woman's life. However, if the number of such cycles exceeds 3-4, then this is a serious reason to consult a doctor.

You can clearly see the absence of ovulation on the chart below:

Hormonal insufficiency: 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.

The insufficiency of this hormone can also be seen by an increase in temperature in the second phase to 37.2, sometimes up to 37.3.

Note that the rise 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 the norm.

The graph below shows how estrogen deficiency manifests itself.

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

ovulation line. The onset of ovulation can be determined by the WHO method. You should take the points on the graph 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 for the last three days of the selected period was above this line and at least two points lie 0.1 ° C higher than this line, then this indicates the onset of ovulation. The ovulation line passes on the day the temperature rises. The optimal time for conception is the day of ovulation, two days before and after it. If in the first phase of the cycle BBT is high, then the WHO method will not be able to determine ovulation. If you measure BBT for three months, you can then determine on which day of the cycle ovulation occurs. This will allow you to calculate in advance the most favorable period for conception.

Menstrual cycle length normally is 21-35 days. The duration of the first phase can vary greatly, which is an individual norm. However, in a healthy woman, the first and second phases are approximately the same number of days. If the cycles are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days, or if 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 BBT 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 by a vertical line). The second phase of the cycle lasts 12-16 days. If for 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 work yet. However, it is possible to accurately establish the fact of pregnancy only on the condition that the previous three months the indicators were daily reflected in the graph of basal body temperature. Normally, on the day of ovulation, BBT rises from 36.3–36.6°C to 37.0–37.3°C. At this level, she keeps more than seven days, falls 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 the onset of 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 basal temperature graph during the anovulatory cycle is not a horizontal straight line. Rather, it will resemble a saw - the temperature on different days can either rise by 0.1-0.3 C, or decrease. Several anovulatory cycles per year are considered acceptable. However, if the situation is repeated consistently from cycle to cycle, then this is a reason to visit a gynecologist.

Prolactinemia

With this condition, the level of the hormone prolactin (a pituitary hormone) in the blood is increased, which regulates many processes. However, excessive production of prolactin can interfere with pregnancy. In this case, the basal temperature chart may look the same as the chart for a pregnant woman. Menstruation, as in 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 stay at 37 ° C, or during ovulation and in the second phase the temperature “jumps” above 37.1 ° C, then the body does not produce enough estrogen, which can be the cause of infertility. The basal temperature chart for estrogen deficiency is predominantly above 37 ° C.

Insufficiency of the corpus luteum

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 gradual rise in temperature in the second phase of the cycle indicates the need for an analysis for progesterone. If conception has occurred, then with a lack of progesterone, pregnancy will be at risk.

If in the second phase of the cycle the rise in temperature is mild, that is, the temperature difference in the first and second phases is 0.2-0.3 degrees, then we can talk about estrogen-progesterone deficiency. If such a schedule of changes in basal temperature is repeated every cycle, then this indicates not a one-time failure, but serious hormonal disorders. If you got this type of BBT schedule, then 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, and not one. According to such a schedule of a woman's basal temperature, it will not work to calculate ovulation. That is why BBT should be measured throughout the 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 for 12 months. Women over the age of 35 are diagnosed as infertile after 6 months of unsuccessful attempts to conceive.

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

• No regular cycle.
• Lack of ovulation.
• estrogen deficiency.
• Lack of corpus luteum.
• Estrogen-progesterone deficiency
• Prolactinemia

Having figured out what BBT is and how to measure it, let's move on to the topic of the basal temperature chart. We will learn how to build it correctly and what can be analyzed, guided by 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, BBT 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 structures of thermoregulation and BT begins to grow.

After the release of the egg, the second half of the menstrual cycle begins, the stage of "high" temperature or the hyperthermic rise of the curve. It is characterized by low estrogen and high progesterone.

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 decline and this two-phase cycle repeats again.

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

How to make such a schedule yourself

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

The figure shows what the chart template looks like.

Every day at the same time in the morning, a woman takes measurements of BBT and fixes them in this table. The table takes into account not only the results of measurements, in a separate column you need to enter additional information about what could cause an unplanned rise or decrease in BT, for example, alcohol intake or a viral infection.

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

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

How to evaluate basal temperature charts

Recall once again what the calendar of an ideal two-phase chart looks like.

And now we will analyze 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, either there is no increase in the curve or it is very weak by 0.3-0.4 degrees.

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

Important! A woman will be able to conceive a child with this pathology, but low progesterone values ​​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 graph curve begins to rise just before menstrual bleeding. This happens when there is a violation of the production of progesterone.

Anovulatory cycle

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

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

Atypical graphic curve

The calendar shows ups and downs of the chart curve that are not typical for either type. It happens with a lack of estrogen and under the influence of random causes (virus, drugs, 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 can be observed:

• insufficiency of female hormones (estrogen). At this time, estrogens are predominant. If their synthesis is lowered, then in the first phase BT can rise above the usual values, and in the second phase it continues to rise and remains at an elevated level, since progesterone begins to work;
• inflammatory processes in the ovaries. Inflammation can cause an abnormally high curve in the first phase. On such a graph, it is very easy to miss, since the rise in temperature due to inflammation is mistakenly confused with ovulation, and then miss the true temperature peak during the period of ovulation. The figure 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 stay at the level of high values ​​(37.1-37.3). The first period begins with an elevated temperature, which gradually decreases and rises again by the time of ovulation;
• during pregnancy. If the egg has been successfully fertilized, then the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone, which maintains a high temperature at the time when the first period is calculated to begin. Measurements of an increase in BBT 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 more likely to be due to incorrect measurement of BBT or other random reasons.

Why is there a 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 analyze when BT does not increase in the second phase:

The correct construction and analysis of BT charts helps to suspect the presence of various pathological processes and calculate the time of the onset of favorable days for conception. This research method is simple, but diagnostically inaccurate, so if in doubt, you need to consult a doctor for an additional examination.

Measurement of basal body 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. The measurement of basal temperature reflects the work of the ovaries much more accurately than hormonal tests and ultrasound folliculometry.

The construction of the schedule must be started 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, with a simple mercury thermometer, inserting its mercury tip into the anus for 5 minutes. Do not forget to fix the current date on the chart. Continue plotting until the start of the next menstruation. With the start of a new period (new cycle), start building a new schedule. To catch the pattern, it is necessary to measure the temperature for three menstrual cycles and record the data daily.

A woman must record every sexual intercourse and all the phenomena that accompany 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 working week, illness - all this is reflected in the menstrual cycle. Therefore, it is desirable to mark these factors on the chart with special icons.

Some women, for example, at the time of the release of the egg from the ovary, feel a short pain (sharp prick) in the region of the right or left ovary. In some cases, a few drops of blood or copious mucus is discharged from the vagina. Observing these phenomena during an increase in temperature helps the doctor in establishing the fact of ovulation.

Basal temperature charts:

rice. BUT- with normal ovulation.

rice. B- in the absence of ovulation.

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

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

To chart your basal temperature yourself, you can download a file from me with a form to fill it in 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.