Basal temperature at the onset of pregnancy

A pregnant woman faces a huge number of new concepts, terms and rules. What is basal temperature? What role does it play in the course of pregnancy? How does the temperature change during the period of ovulation and how can it affect the planning of conception? In this article we will look at these and many other issues that appear daily in a pregnant woman.

Basal temperature: what is it?

First of all, it is worthwhile to know that the basal body temperature is measured in the oral cavity, rectum and vagina. Why do we need to measure the basal temperature? In order to assess the work of the sexual glands, to determine possible violations in the sexual system, and also to understand if the moment of the egg's release has come, because the basal temperature plays a very important role in the planning of pregnancy. Correctly to measure a basal temperature follows so:

• to measure basal temperature does not make sense during the intake of hormonal drugs, alcohol and oral contraceptives;
• it is recommended to measure basal temperature at the beginning of pregnancy and not only in the rectum, but not in the oral cavity or vagina;
• start measuring the temperature after 5-6 hours of sleep;
• Basal temperature is measured every morning, while it is better not to make any sudden movements and not even talk. Even direct sunlight, which irritates the eyes, can cause temperature fluctuations;
• basal temperature is measured at the same time;
• The measurement lasts 7-10 minutes with a mercury thermometer and 60 seconds with an electronic thermometer;
• all indicators are recorded in a special diary.

How to determine pregnancy basal temperature?

The determination of pregnancy at basal temperature is a very reliable and common method, but, nevertheless, quite troublesome. Basal temperature at 1 week of the expected pregnancy, that is, the delay of the menstrual cycle, should be measured by the following way: you need to enter a medical thermometer (mercury or electronic) into the rectum. Signs of pregnancy at basal temperature can be easily determined, if the basal temperature lasts for more than 37 days, you can be sure that the pregnancy has come. The increase in basal temperature occurs under the influence of a hormone, so the walls of the uterus are prepared for attachment of a fertilized egg. The first signs of pregnancy by measuring the basal temperature are reliable enough and they can be relied on if you do not have the opportunity for any reason to visit a gynecologist or conduct other pregnancy tests.

In pregnancy, which proceeds safely, the high basal temperature persists for a long time and ranges from 37.1 ° C to 37.3 ° C. This lasts the first four months, and after the temperature begins to gradually decrease. Many believe that after the 20th week pregnancy, it is not necessary to measure basal temperature, however doctors have different opinion on this matter. What for to measure a basal temperature after 4-th month of pregnancy if already without that it is clear, what conception has occured or happened? The answer is simple: a sharp and unexpected decrease in basal temperature can tell you that your hormonal background has changed, and this, accordingly, does not say anything good. So, if you notice sharp drops in your basal temperature measurements, this may indicate that there is a threat of miscarriage or stopping the development of your future baby. An increase in the basal temperature, for example, up to 37.8 ° C and above, indicates an inflammatory process in the mother's body.