Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting for Fertility and Ovulation
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) charting can tell us more than just when to expect ovulation. In Chinese medicine, we use this powerful tool to analyze the cycle as a whole. Depending on slight variations in temperature at certain times in the cycle and the overall shape of the chart, we can pinpoint where there could be an issue and why you’re not seeing that big fat positive.
The overall chart provides detailed information about the follicular and luteal phases of the cycle to help identify the root cause of infertility and lead us to an effective course of treatment.
If either phase is too short or too long then we can treat that appropriately and naturally with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
BBT charting is the most accurate way to know when ovulation has occurred based on temperature changes that happen right before a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH). Sometimes, it can be as simple as revealing a second LH surge that was previously unknown. This new information can indicate a different window that would be best for intercourse timing.
It can also give us evidence of pregnancy even if what seems like a normal period has occurred. We’ve even had multiple cases where we were able to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy after a full period using the chart. Occasionally, small fluctuations in temperature can allude to hypothyroidism, PCOS or a luteal phase defect. All of which can be treated to enhance fertility naturally.
Although BBT Charting can be useful for anyone trying to conceive, its especially useful for those with:
Irregular periods
Long cycles (40-60 days)
Mid-cycle spotting
Missed periods
PCOS diagnosis
Thyroid issues
History of ectopic pregnancies
Multiple LH surges per cycle when using Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs)
In these cases, it can be difficult to figure out when ovulation has occurred and when to expect with traditional methods like cycle timing and OPK’s. Based on your BBT chart and relevant physical signs, we may also want to do some hormone testing to confirm or rule out a health condition affecting fertility.
Keep in mind, these are just general instructions on how to use your chart for ovulation timing. Charts can look very different from one person to the next, so don’t get discouraged if your chart doesn’t appear neat and tidy. Things like alcohol, stress and varied sleep patterns can all affect your daily BBT.
We Recommend the Kindara App for BBT Charting
This form of cycle tracking requires a little effort and a lot of consistency. It’s only going to be useful if it’s done appropriately. While there’s lots of apps, bracelets and rings that claim to track your temperature accurately, we recommend the app Kindara for a few reasons.
With Kindara, you can get a special thermometer that pairs with the app through Bluetooth and registers your temperature to the app automatically. It’s simply placed under the tongue for a couple seconds each morning.
Kindara has a share option where you can send your chart directly and confidentially to your practitioner for professional interpretation.
Kindara auto populates your temperatures to an easy to read line chart.
BBT charting can be tricky and confusing. This is the simplest and most hassle-free option to track accurately.
How to Track Basal Body Temperature (BBT)
You’ll need a thermometer that’s specifically for BBT, like the one for Kindara, or one that reads digitally to 1/100th of a degree (Example: 97.83).
BBT by definition is your lowest body temperature after a period of sleep. Ideally, you’ll take your temperature at the same time every morning after at least 3 hours of sleep. Set a wake time in advance to keep consistent.
Make sure to take your temperature first thing upon waking. (Before using the restroom, standing, checking your phone, talking to partner, etc.)
Adjust temperature if necessary. Your temperature rises 0.1 degree every 30 minutes. If you took it earlier or later than usual, adjust it manually to reflect what it “would have” been. You also use the BBT Temperature Adjuster at this link: https://whenmybaby.com/basalbodytemperature.php
How to Interpret a BBT Chart for Ovulation
Pre-ovulation (Follicular Phase)
Lower Temps, <97.8
Less than 0.4 variation
Ovulation
There will be a dip in temperature 48 hours prior to ovulation
The rise in temperature should be less than 3 days
Post-Ovulation (Luteal Phase)
Higher temps. Shifts in temperature are normal, but will ideally stay >97.8
*Charts can vary in appearance, especially in the luteal phase. There’s no need to get discouraged if your chart doesn’t look “normal”. This is just a basic reference to get you started on the right foot.
We’re here to help and support you at every stage of pregnancy from preconception to labor and beyond. At Mauro Acupuncture, we will do a thorough interpretation of your BBT chart at no extra cost when you come in for fertility acupuncture treatments.