Why does ovulation temperature occur?
From adolescence until menopause, most women will experience a rise in their resting body temperature immediately after ovulation, which will remain at that level for the rest of the month. Immediately after the egg has been released from the ovary, the empty follicle starts to produce a number of hormones designed to prepare your body for a possible pregnancy. One of these hormones, progesterone, causes your basal body temperature to rise. Towards the end of the regular cycle, your progesterone levels start to fall again, triggering menstruation.
How do you measure basal body temperature?
When your body has been in a state of rest for a period of time, your core body temperature drops to conserve energy. The best time to measure your basal body temperature is first thing in the morning when you wake up, ideally before you get out of bed.
To chart your basal body temperature, use an accurate thermometer to take your temperature and record it manually.
There are a number of thermometers on the market specifically designed to measure your basal body temperature. The main feature of these thermometers is their ability to give accurate and detailed results. Most standard digital thermometers will measure temperatures in increments of 0.1 degrees Fahrenheit.
To chart your basal body temperature, use an accurate thermometer to take your temperature and record it manually.
There are a number of thermometers on the market specifically designed to measure your basal body temperature. The main feature of these thermometers is their ability to give accurate and detailed results. Most standard digital thermometers will measure temperatures in increments of 0.1 degrees Fahrenheit.
The information of this article has been reviewed by nursing experts of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, & Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN). The content should not substitute medical advice from your personal healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for recommendations/diagnosis or treatment. For more advice from AWHONN nurses, visit Healthy Mom&Baby at health4mom.org.
