Modern women underestimate the use of basal temperature measurements. It is simple, cheap and very informative. This technique will help to establish whether ovulation occurs and when, to suspect hormonal disorders, inflammatory processes, the threat of termination of pregnancy.
Basal temperature, the rate of which varies depending on the phase of the cycle, is measured in the anus at a certain time in the morning. This should be done with a mercury or electronic thermometer after waking up in bed. It is advisable not to even open your eyes and not talk. The thermometer must be prepared in the evening and laid so that it is possible to reach it.
It is better to record his testimonies immediately so as not to forget. Normal basal temperature can be obtained in a state of physical and psychological rest. If on the eve a woman drank alcohol, had sex, experienced stress, went to bed unusually late, was very tired, took medications, then the result will be unreliable.
It makes no sense to take measurements at high body temperature during the flu and other diseases. Such factors need to be noted where measurements are recorded. In addition, it is necessary to note the nature of vaginal discharge and the intensity of menstruation.
The normal cycle consists of ovulation, follicular and luteal phase. At the beginning of it, the follicles begin to mature, then one dominant is secreted. In this phase, estrogens synthesized by the ovaries are the main ones. They provide a low basal temperature.
When the follicle matures, ovulation occurs. A corpus luteum is formed that secrete progesterone. This hormone is responsible for preparing the endometrium for embryo implantation, and during pregnancy, for its maintenance.
It also provides a high basal temperature in the second (luteal) phase of the cycle and in the first months of gestation. Its value below 37 degrees can be considered as a threat of abortion.
Women who themselves or on the recommendation of a doctor begin to use this method are interested in what should be the basal temperature. There is no definite answer to this question, since it is very individual. Most importantly, it should be low in the first phase and high in the second. The difference between the values should be more than 0.4 degrees.
Average basal temperature norm:
- follicular phase - 36.3 - 36.8;
- the luteal phase is 37-37.2.
In order to make the data easier to perceive, basal temperature plots are built . The days of the cycle are marked on the horizontal axis, and the values obtained on the vertical axis.
Ovulation occurs when the graph shows a jump from a low temperature level up. Sometimes there is a recession before this, although this is not necessary. This phenomenon is explained by an additional release of estrogen.
The temperature rise should normally last no more than 3 days. If it takes longer, some experts believe that this indicates luteinization of the follicle.
The length of the second phase usually lasts 14 days, if it is shorter than 12, and even more so 10 days, then its insufficiency can be suspected. This requires a hormonal examination, consultation with a gynecologist and taking progestogens. It is strictly forbidden to prescribe any treatment according to the schedule.
A small difference in mean values between the second and first phases may indicate estrogen and / or progesterone deficiency. A chart with significant jumps, which has no high and low readings, indicates anovulation.
Basal temperature, the rate of which depends on individual characteristics, should be measured for at least three months. Then we can draw conclusions.
So, basal temperature, the norm of which is individual, can be used to diagnose various hormonal pathologies in gynecology. This technique is actively used to search for causes of infertility. It is simple, inexpensive and informative when used correctly.