Can You Experience Fever Before Your Menstrual Period?

Can you have a fever before menstruation?

Hello! I would like to ask if it is common to experience fever-like symptoms before the onset of menstruation.
My baseline body temperature is generally high, with an ear temperature usually around 37.3°C (ranging from 36.8°C to 37.5°C) and a forehead temperature around 36.7°C.
However, for the past five days, my ear temperature has been around 37.7°C (ranging from 37.3°C to 38.0°C), fluctuating up and down, while my forehead temperature remains stable at 36.7°C.
It has been over a month since my last menstrual period (March 5), and my cycles are irregular.
I did not have a period for 1-2 months.
Previously, in late February, I also experienced similar fever-like symptoms before my period, with ear temperatures fluctuating between 37.5°C and 38°C (I visited the emergency room twice, and chest X-rays, blood tests, and urinalysis all returned normal results).
After my period started, my temperature dropped back to between 36.8°C and 37.5°C.

So, I would like to know if some individuals experience such symptoms premenstrually.
If so, is my situation still within a reasonable range? Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, I am a bit concerned.
Would you recommend that I seek medical attention promptly? If I need to see a doctor quickly, should I go to the emergency room or to a gynecologist? Thank you!

H, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/10

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, after ovulation, the body temperature will be slightly elevated, but it should not reach 38°C.
It is likely not a gynecological issue.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/04/10

More Info

Yes, it is possible to experience a slight increase in body temperature before your menstrual period, often referred to as "premenstrual syndrome" (PMS). This phenomenon can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur in the body during the menstrual cycle. Specifically, the rise in progesterone levels after ovulation can lead to an increase in basal body temperature, which may explain the elevated readings you are observing.

In your case, you mentioned that your ear temperature has been fluctuating between 37.5°C and 38.0°C, which is slightly above the normal range. While a normal body temperature typically hovers around 36.1°C to 37.2°C, variations can occur due to several factors, including hormonal changes, physical activity, and even the time of day. It is also worth noting that some women may experience a more pronounced temperature increase in the days leading up to their period, which can mimic a low-grade fever.

Given your history of irregular menstrual cycles and the previous episodes of elevated temperature that resolved with the onset of menstruation, it seems that your current symptoms may be within a reasonable range for premenstrual changes. However, it is essential to consider other potential causes for your elevated temperature, especially since you have experienced similar symptoms in the past that warranted medical evaluation.

If you are feeling well otherwise and do not have any additional concerning symptoms—such as severe pain, significant fatigue, or other signs of infection—then it may not be necessary to seek immediate medical attention. However, if your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other alarming signs, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

In terms of seeking medical care, if you decide to go to a clinic, it would be advisable to visit a gynecologist or a family medicine doctor who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your menstrual cycle. If you experience acute symptoms, such as high fever (above 38.5°C), severe abdominal pain, or any other concerning signs, you may want to consider going to the emergency department.

In summary, while it is common for some women to experience slight increases in body temperature before their menstrual period due to hormonal changes, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have any doubts or if your condition changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, especially during times when there are concerns about infectious diseases like COVID-19.

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