Pregnancy Chances with PCOS: A Temperature Guide - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Probability of pregnancy?


I have polycystic ovary syndrome and am currently being treated at a reproductive center.
On June 2nd, I received an ovulation trigger shot and had intercourse.
I started using the ovulation predictor kit (OPK) on June 9th, but my temperature readings are causing me anxiety.
I'm unsure if this is normal.
Here are my temperature readings:
- June 2 (Friday): 36.34°C (after the trigger shot and intercourse, with only one egg)
- June 3 (Saturday): 35.96°C
- June 4 (Sunday): 36.35°C (intercourse in the evening)
- June 5 (Monday): 36.28°C
- June 6 (Tuesday): 36.48°C
- June 7 (Wednesday): 36.51°C
- June 8 (Thursday): 36.62°C
- June 9 (Friday): 36.56°C (follow-up ultrasound confirmed ovulation occurred around June 3-4, with sufficient endometrial thickness; I started taking the OPK that evening, one pill with each meal for a total of 9 days.
The doctor advised that my temperature should be above 36.7°C.)
- June 10 (Saturday): 36.74°C
- June 11 (Sunday): 36.67°C
- June 12 (Monday): 36.64°C
- June 13 (Tuesday): 36.77°C
- June 14 (Wednesday): 36.63°C
- June 15 (Thursday): 36.64°C
- June 16 (Friday): 36.64°C
Recently, I've been experiencing bloating in my lower abdomen and breast tenderness.
On the morning of June 14, I suddenly felt very sleepy, and on June 15, I experienced dizziness.
I find myself wanting to sleep early every night.
The doctor mentioned that if I do not get my period between June 19 and June 21, I should take a pregnancy test.

Based on my temperature chart, is this normal? What are the chances of pregnancy? After all, despite taking the OPK, my temperature hasn't risen significantly.
Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond.

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/16

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, if you suspect you might be pregnant, it's advisable to monitor your situation.
If your period is late, it's recommended to take a pregnancy test.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/06/16

More Info


Understanding your chances of pregnancy, especially with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), can be quite complex and often leads to anxiety, particularly when monitoring basal body temperature (BBT). Your detailed temperature chart and the timeline of your ovulation induction and subsequent actions provide valuable insight into your current situation.

From your records, it appears that you received an ovulation trigger shot on June 2nd and engaged in intercourse that same evening. Following that, your BBT readings show fluctuations, with some days below the 36.7°C mark that your doctor suggested aiming for. Typically, after ovulation, a rise in BBT is expected due to the increase in progesterone levels, which is produced by the corpus luteum after the egg is released. This rise usually occurs within 24 hours post-ovulation, and the temperature should remain elevated for at least 10-14 days if pregnancy occurs.

Your temperature readings indicate that while you did experience some fluctuations, they have not consistently remained above the 36.7°C threshold. This could be a point of concern, as it may suggest that your body is not producing enough progesterone to maintain a higher temperature, which is often indicative of a healthy luteal phase. However, it’s also important to note that BBT can be influenced by various factors, including stress, sleep quality, and even illness, which can lead to variability in readings.

Regarding your symptoms of bloating, breast tenderness, and increased fatigue, these can be early signs of pregnancy, but they can also be attributed to hormonal changes associated with ovulation and the medications you are taking. The introduction of Clomiphene Citrate (often referred to as "小白球") can also affect your body in various ways, including altering your BBT and causing side effects that mimic early pregnancy symptoms.

As for your question about the likelihood of pregnancy given your current temperature readings and symptoms, it’s essential to remember that while BBT is a useful tool for tracking ovulation, it is not a definitive measure of pregnancy. The best way to confirm pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test or a blood test, which can detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) produced after implantation.

If your period does not arrive between June 19-21, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test. If you do find yourself pregnant, your doctor may recommend progesterone supplementation to support the pregnancy, especially given your history with PCOS and any previous challenges you may have faced.

In conclusion, while your BBT readings are a useful tool for tracking ovulation and potential pregnancy, they should be interpreted in conjunction with other signs and symptoms, as well as professional medical advice. Continue to monitor your symptoms, maintain communication with your healthcare provider, and consider taking a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. Remember, managing PCOS and fertility can be a journey, and it’s important to be patient and seek support when needed.

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