Basal Body Temperature and Ovulation Issues in Women Over 40

Basal body temperature and ovulation issues?

Hello, Doctor: I am 48 years old, and my recent basal body temperature has mostly ranged between 36.1 to 36.4 degrees Celsius, occasionally rising to 36.5 or 36.6, but then dropping back to around 36.4 the next day.
There is no clear demarcation between the high and low temperatures.
My menstrual cycle has also extended from 26-30 days to 30-40 days.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Does this indicate anovulatory cycles? 2.
Are these symptoms indicative of perimenopause? 3.
If I have interrupted sleep at night and frequently wake up to urinate, will this affect my basal body temperature? If so, will it lower or raise it? 4.
What is the average age of menopause for women in Taiwan? (I started menstruating around my first year of high school.) Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to respond!

Sally, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/15

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Ovarian function declines, leading to a condition with almost no ovulation.
2.
It is possible; a clinic visit is necessary to find out.
3.
It will affect basal body temperature.
4.
Generally, this occurs around the ages of 48-52.

Reply Date: 2015/06/15

More Info

Understanding basal body temperature (BBT) and ovulation issues in women over 40 can be quite complex, especially as women approach perimenopause and menopause. Your observations about your BBT and menstrual cycle changes are significant and warrant a detailed discussion.

1. Anovulatory Cycles: The fluctuations in your BBT, which predominantly range from 36.1°C to 36.4°C, with occasional rises to 36.5°C or 36.6°C, suggest that you may be experiencing anovulatory cycles. In a typical menstrual cycle, ovulation is marked by a distinct rise in BBT, usually by at least 0.2°C (0.4°F) above the previous low temperature. If you do not observe a consistent pattern of elevated temperatures following a low phase, it may indicate that ovulation is not occurring regularly. This is common in women over 40, as ovarian function begins to decline.

2. Perimenopause Symptoms: The irregularity in your menstrual cycle, extending from 26-30 days to 30-40 days, is also indicative of perimenopause. This transitional phase leading up to menopause can cause various symptoms, including changes in menstrual cycle length, hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. The average age for menopause in Taiwanese women is around 48-52 years, so at 48, you are likely in this transitional phase.

3. Impact of Sleep Patterns on BBT: Sleep disturbances, such as waking frequently during the night to use the restroom, can indeed affect your BBT readings. Generally, poor sleep can lead to fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly cortisol and melatonin, which can influence your body temperature regulation. If you are experiencing fragmented sleep, it may lead to lower BBT readings due to the body's inability to maintain a stable temperature. However, the impact can vary; some may experience a slight increase in temperature due to stress or hormonal fluctuations.

4. Average Age of Menopause: As mentioned, the average age of menopause for women in Taiwan is typically between 48 and 52 years. Since you began menstruating around the age of 15, your current age places you within the expected range for experiencing perimenopausal symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms and observations are consistent with the changes many women experience as they approach menopause. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, preferably a gynecologist, who can conduct further evaluations, such as hormone level testing, to provide a clearer picture of your reproductive health. They can also discuss potential management strategies for any symptoms you may be experiencing, including lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or hormonal treatments if necessary. Keeping a detailed record of your BBT, menstrual cycle, and any accompanying symptoms can be beneficial for your healthcare provider in assessing your situation.

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