Persistent High Basal Body Temperature but Negative Pregnancy Test: What to Do?

Persistent elevated basal body temperature, but pregnancy tests are negative?

Hello! My menstrual cycle has been regular for the past few months, with my period starting on August 29 (this is the second time I took ovulation medication).
I had a transvaginal ultrasound on September 15, and the doctor said there were no visible follicles (I did have intercourse that evening).
My period was expected on September 28 (I only started tracking my basal body temperature before my period, and it has consistently been above 36.9°C).
This morning, October 5, I took a pregnancy test, and there was still a clear negative line (my morning temperature was 37.2°C).
This is the longest delay I've experienced this year.
Is there still a possibility that I could be pregnant? When would be a good time for me to see a doctor? If I am not pregnant, I really hope my period arrives soon, as I am traveling abroad in mid-October.
Could you please advise me on what to do now? Thank you!

Xiong Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/05

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
On the morning of October 5th, a pregnancy test was conducted, 20 days after the sexual intercourse on September 15th, and the result showed no pregnancy, which should be reliable.
2.
If you wish to induce menstruation, you can consult a physician to discuss the possibility of medication.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/05

More Info

Persistent high basal body temperature (BBT) combined with negative pregnancy tests can be a source of confusion and concern for many women trying to conceive. Your situation, where you have consistently recorded a BBT above 36.9°C (98.4°F) and have missed your expected period, raises several questions about what might be happening in your body.

Firstly, it's important to understand that a sustained high BBT can indicate several things. In a typical menstrual cycle, BBT rises after ovulation due to increased progesterone levels, which are produced by the corpus luteum. If you are experiencing a prolonged high temperature, it could suggest that ovulation has occurred, but it does not necessarily confirm pregnancy. The absence of menstruation and a negative pregnancy test could indicate several possibilities:
1. Anovulation: Sometimes, even with the use of ovulation medications, ovulation may not occur. This can lead to a prolonged luteal phase, where the body continues to produce progesterone, keeping your BBT elevated without leading to menstruation.

2. Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid dysfunction can lead to irregular cycles and elevated BBT without pregnancy.

3. Early Pregnancy: It is possible to have a negative pregnancy test if it is taken too early. Home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If you suspect you might be pregnant, consider waiting a few days and testing again, or consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect lower levels of hCG (the hormone produced during pregnancy).

4. Stress or Lifestyle Factors: Stress, changes in weight, or significant lifestyle changes can also affect your menstrual cycle and BBT.
Given your timeline, if your period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform a more sensitive blood test for pregnancy and evaluate your hormonal levels to determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
In terms of timing, if your period does not arrive within a week of your expected date, or if you continue to experience high BBT without a clear reason, it would be prudent to seek medical advice sooner rather than later.
If you are planning to travel in mid-October, it is essential to have clarity on your health status before your trip. If you are not pregnant and your period does not arrive, your doctor may suggest ways to induce menstruation or further investigate the cause of your irregular cycle.

In summary, while persistent high BBT can be indicative of various conditions, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out pregnancy and assess any potential hormonal imbalances or other health concerns. Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes in your cycle will also provide valuable information for your doctor.

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