a Drop in Basal Body Temperature at 10 Weeks Pregnant

A decrease in basal body temperature at 10 weeks of pregnancy?

Hello, I have been measuring my basal body temperature since I became pregnant, and it has been around 37 to 37.2 degrees Celsius.
However, when I was a little over 10 weeks pregnant, my temperature suddenly dropped to 36.5 degrees Celsius in the morning.
I have heard that basal body temperature remains elevated until around 12 weeks before it decreases.
Is it abnormal for my temperature to drop at just over 10 weeks?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/24

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I have been measuring my basal body temperature since becoming pregnant, and it has generally remained in the range of 37°C to 37.2°C.
However, at just over 10 weeks of pregnancy, my temperature suddenly dropped to 36.5°C in the morning.
I have heard that basal body temperature tends to stay elevated until around 12 weeks, so is it abnormal for it to drop at just over 10 weeks? Answer: As long as there is no bleeding, it should be fine, but an ultrasound can be performed to check on the fetus.

Reply Date: 2017/02/24

More Info

A drop in basal body temperature during pregnancy can be concerning for many expectant mothers, especially when they have been monitoring their temperature closely. In your case, you have been consistently measuring your basal body temperature (BBT) around 37°C to 37.2°C, and then you experienced a sudden drop to 36.5°C at around 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Firstly, it's important to understand that while many women do experience a rise in basal body temperature during the early stages of pregnancy due to increased progesterone levels, this is not a strict rule. The rise in BBT is often used as an indicator of ovulation and early pregnancy, but fluctuations can occur for various reasons.
A drop in BBT at 10 weeks pregnant is not necessarily abnormal. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can lead to variations in body temperature. As the pregnancy progresses, particularly after the first trimester, the body may begin to stabilize, and the elevated BBT may return to a more normal range. This can happen as the body adjusts to the pregnancy and hormonal levels begin to balance out.
Moreover, if you are not experiencing any other concerning symptoms, such as bleeding, cramping, or significant discomfort, a drop in temperature alone is not typically a cause for alarm. However, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your pregnancy or if you notice any unusual symptoms. They may recommend an ultrasound or other tests to ensure that everything is progressing normally with your pregnancy.

In addition to monitoring your BBT, it is essential to pay attention to other signs of pregnancy and overall health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular prenatal care, and avoiding high-risk activities, is crucial during this time. If you have been engaging in activities that could potentially affect your pregnancy, such as hot baths or strenuous exercise, it may be wise to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while a drop in basal body temperature at 10 weeks pregnant can be concerning, it is not necessarily indicative of a problem, especially if you are not experiencing other symptoms. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider to address any concerns and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

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