Basal Body Temperature: Is It a Sign of Ovulation Issues?

Basal body temperature

I started tracking my basal body temperature because I want to prepare for pregnancy.
However, I stopped measuring for a while.
I measured from September 1 to November 2 and from January 5 to the present.
I recorded my temperature from September 3 to September 8, October 24 to 30, and December 2 to December 8.
I had my menstrual period, but it was delayed afterward! My temperatures have not shown a clear sustained high; they fluctuate (with a couple of days being higher followed by a drop the next day).
The lowest I recorded was 35.74°C and the highest was 36.55°C, with an average generally between 36.1°C and 36.4°C.

I would like to know if this indicates anovulation (even though I have had my period).
Because of the delayed menstruation, I consulted a doctor and brought my temperature chart.
The doctor seemed uninterested and told me that since my temperature did not exceed 36.7°C, it indicates no ovulation, and I should take ovulation medication.
After taking the medication, my temperature increased the next day! Is this true? Am I really not ovulating (or is it just a progesterone deficiency)? Should I undergo a transvaginal ultrasound examination?

Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the usual time to take ovulation medication is on the 4th to 5th day of the menstrual cycle.
The body temperature will not immediately rise after taking the medication.
If the temperature remains low, it indicates that ovulation has not occurred.
Generally, treatment with ovulation medication is sufficient.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/01/22

More Info

Understanding basal body temperature (BBT) is crucial for women who are trying to conceive, as it can provide insights into ovulation and overall reproductive health. BBT refers to the body's temperature at rest, and it typically changes throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations.
In a typical menstrual cycle, BBT is lower during the follicular phase (before ovulation) and rises after ovulation due to increased progesterone levels. This post-ovulation rise in temperature usually lasts until the onset of menstruation. A sustained increase in BBT of at least 0.2°C (0.4°F) above the average pre-ovulation temperature for at least 14 days is often used as an indicator of successful ovulation.

From your description, it seems that your BBT readings have been inconsistent, with temperatures ranging from 35.74°C to 36.55°C, and an average around 36.1°C to 36.4°C. These temperatures suggest that you may not be experiencing a clear ovulatory pattern, especially if there is no sustained rise in temperature following a peak. The absence of a significant temperature increase could indicate anovulation (the lack of ovulation) or a possible hormonal imbalance, such as insufficient progesterone levels, which is sometimes referred to as luteal phase deficiency.

Your doctor’s response regarding the temperature threshold of 36.7°C as an indicator of ovulation may be somewhat simplistic. While it is true that a sustained rise in BBT is a sign of ovulation, the specific temperature can vary significantly among individuals. Some women may have a higher baseline temperature, while others may have a lower one. Therefore, it is essential to consider the pattern of your BBT over time rather than focusing solely on a specific number.

If you have been tracking your BBT and have not observed a consistent pattern, it may be beneficial to explore further diagnostic options. An ultrasound (often referred to as a transvaginal ultrasound) can help assess the health of your ovaries and the presence of follicles, which are necessary for ovulation. Additionally, blood tests can measure hormone levels, including progesterone, to determine if ovulation is occurring and if there are any hormonal imbalances.

In terms of your menstrual cycle, the fact that you have had a period indicates that your body is still functioning in some capacity, but the irregularities in your BBT could suggest that there are underlying issues that need to be addressed. If your doctor has prescribed ovulation-inducing medications, it may help stimulate ovulation and regulate your cycle, but it is crucial to monitor your response to the medication and continue tracking your BBT.

In conclusion, while your BBT readings may suggest a lack of ovulation, it is essential to consider the broader context of your menstrual cycle and overall health. If you continue to have concerns about your ovulation or menstrual irregularities, I recommend following up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and to discuss the possibility of additional testing or treatment options. Understanding your body’s signals and working closely with your healthcare provider can help you achieve your goal of conception.

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