Basal Body Temperature Changes in Early Pregnancy

Basal body temperature

Hello, Doctor: I have a question.
During early pregnancy, does body temperature always rise? How long does it stay elevated? My period has not arrived, and I have received medication to induce menstruation, but my period still hasn't come.
My temperature has been around 36.69°C.
Today, after having intercourse with my husband, I experienced bright red bleeding.
I thought my period had started and was very happy, but then it stopped completely after a whole day.
When I was pregnant with my first child, I remember my temperature was always above 37°C, and I tested positive for pregnancy on the 28th day of my cycle.
However, this time, I tested at the same time and it showed no pregnancy.
Why is it that I cannot menstruate even after taking medication to induce it?

mei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/03/06

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

During early pregnancy, your body temperature will typically rise by about one degree compared to your baseline temperature.
If you have received a menstrual induction injection, your temperature will definitely increase, as the injection contains progesterone.
Light bleeding after intercourse may also be a sign of menstruation, especially since you have used the induction medication; the dosage can affect the amount of menstrual flow.
If you want to increase your menstrual flow, you may consider receiving additional menstrual induction injections.

Reply Date: 2001/03/06

More Info

Understanding basal body temperature (BBT) changes during early pregnancy is crucial for women who are trying to conceive or are already pregnant. In a typical menstrual cycle, BBT is influenced by hormonal changes, particularly the rise in progesterone after ovulation, which usually causes a slight increase in temperature. This increase typically lasts until the onset of menstruation. If pregnancy occurs, the elevated BBT can persist due to continued progesterone production from the corpus luteum and later the placenta.

In early pregnancy, it is common for BBT to remain elevated, often above 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit), for several weeks. However, it is important to note that not all women will experience the same temperature patterns. Some may see fluctuations, and a drop in BBT does not always indicate a problem, especially if there are no accompanying symptoms such as bleeding or cramping.

In your case, you mentioned that your BBT has been around 36.69 degrees Celsius, which is lower than the typical range seen in early pregnancy. This could be concerning, especially if you are experiencing other symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles and unexpected bleeding. The fact that you have had a history of receiving medication to induce menstruation and are still not experiencing a regular cycle could indicate underlying hormonal imbalances or other reproductive health issues.

The presence of fresh red bleeding after intercourse can be alarming and may warrant further investigation. It is essential to differentiate between implantation bleeding, which can occur in early pregnancy, and menstrual bleeding or other complications. If the bleeding is light and resolves quickly, it may not be a cause for concern, but it is crucial to monitor the situation closely.

Regarding your question about whether BBT must always be elevated in early pregnancy, the answer is no. While many women do experience a sustained increase in BBT, individual variations exist. Factors such as stress, illness, sleep patterns, and even the method of temperature measurement can influence BBT readings. Therefore, while BBT can be a helpful tool in tracking ovulation and potential pregnancy, it should not be the sole indicator of pregnancy status.

If you are concerned about your BBT, menstrual irregularities, or any bleeding, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including blood tests to check hormone levels and possibly an ultrasound to assess the status of your uterus and any potential pregnancy. Additionally, if you are actively trying to conceive, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, fertility treatments, or medications to help regulate your cycle and improve your chances of conception.

In summary, while elevated BBT is often associated with early pregnancy, it is not a definitive indicator. Individual variations exist, and other factors must be considered. If you have concerns about your reproductive health or are experiencing unusual symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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