7 Best Basal Body Thermometers To Track Ovulation

Have you been trying to get pregnant but in vain? If so then basal body thermometer is one of the best tools to rely on. Tracking basal body temperature helps you predict ovulation accurately, giving you better scope for conceiving.

What is basal body temperature?

It is the temperature acquired right after waking up on bed or when the body is under complete rest mode. As per medical professionals, our body temperature will slightly increase during the ovulation time. During this period, if you have intercourse then there is a high chance of getting pregnant.

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For optimum accuracy, it is recommended to record the temperature at the same time every morning before going to bathroom, eating, smoking.

When compared to normal thermometers, BBT is known to be sensitive to the temperatures and capable of recording even a minor difference (accuracy within 1/100th of a degree).

For example, BBT’s can provide precise reading of 98.63 F instead of 98.6 F (vague reading). This slightest difference plays an important role in tracking the ovulation.

When you are purchasing a basal body thermometer, make sure it has mobile App connectivity (as it avoids the struggle of manual charting), memory recall feature (to check the previous reading) and beep indication (notifies when temperature reading is completed). Apart from these there are other factors too…which you can read “HERE”.

Below is the list of products picked up by our experts after a lot of research and analysis.

List of Best Basal Body Thermometers

Contents

Among the top 7 basal body thermometer we have picked up, “Health Tree Smart Period Tracker” as our first preference. Accuracy, intelligent temperature algorithm and others are few reasons why it has grabbed our hearts. And moreover it is quite affordable too.

Evaluation of Each Individual Product:

1. Health Tree Smart Period Tracker Fertility Monitor, BBT

When it comes to accuracy and quality, no one can beat Health Tree. This basal body thermometer is one of the most prescribed devices by doctors as it can accurately identify the ovulation days.

We have selected this product as our first priority because its intelligent coded algorithm which is not present in any other basal body thermometer in the market. This algorithm will identify and record the accurate equilibrium temperature. The temperature sensor probe, processing chip, and circuits are of high quality. So they provide highly accurate recordings. It is capable of recording even slightest variations up to a hundredth of degree in the temperature.

This thermometer can store temperature recordings for up to 50 results. The data will be automatically synced to the cloud storage. It is conveniently designed to take the records easily without any hassles. This thermometer has an alarm clock alert facility which wakes you up daily at the right time to take the temperature.

By connecting this thermometer to mobile application (via Bluetooth), the results will be directly recorded and a graph is also available instantly. So, you don’t have to worry about charting daily. The app also has features like reminding ovulation period (you can seize the time for conception). This also helps in birth control planning.

The manufacturer provides a 12 month warranty for quality issues. In case, if you are satisfied with the product then you can it within 60 days and get a full refund.

Though it has many features, the only thing we didn’t like is that we cannot feed the period length manually. If your period is uncertain then it can be a bit tricky to understand the exact ovulation time.

Positives:

    High accuracy.
    Mobile application compatibility.
    Alarm clock alert and automatic remainders.
    Generates temperature curve instantly.
    Cloud data storage.
    Satisfaction guaranteed and money return policy.

Negatives:

    The app doesn’t have option of feeding intimacy dates.
    We cannot change the period length if it is uncertain every month.

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2. iProven Clinical Basal Thermometer

The members of iProven brand have a passion to develop high quality products. This product has taken second place in our list because of its accurate and doubt-free readings.

It is specially developed to take accurate body temperature to up to a hundredth of a degree. The design of iProven basal thermometer is ergonomic and very easy to hold.

By just pressing the button at the end of thermometer, you can start measuring. A beep indication is provided to notify that the recording is completed. However, the beep is low enough that it doesn’t disturb others sleeping beside you. Depending on your temperature reading preferences, you can switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit.

The large display makes it clear to read the numbers. The measured temperature stays on the display until you manually turn-off the thermometer.

If you are looking for a 1 second temperature detection thermometer then this may not be ideal for you. Because iProven takes longer time when compares to others. It takes at least 1 minute to detect the temperature changes. But however, it provides most accurate and doubt-free readings.

Why is iProven designed to be slow?

The manufacturers have specially designed it to be slow in order to provide accurate results. Because when you open your mouth, the air flows into it which will cool down the mouth tissue. For normal temperature calculation, this slight change may not be so important. But as we use BBT for ovulation even 0.02 difference can have a major impact.

For accurate measurement, the temperature of the mouth tissue has to be very close to actual body temperature. So, the manufacturers of iProven modified the algorithm as close enough as possible. This algorithm will adjust to the basal body temperature very slowly and provide accurate results. This eliminates the chances of providing assumed or guesswork results.

Calculating the recording in seconds can be inaccurate or assumed result. So, you have to keep your mouth shut and avoid moving for accurate results.

The reading are provided in Fahrenheit only. So, you cannot switch the value to Celsius.

Most of the users love this BBT as it is completely waterproof and easy to clean as well. The manufacturer provides 100 days hassle free refund so if you don’t like the thermometer then you can return it within this limited period.

Positives:

    Accurate readings in both Fahrenheit and Celsius.
    Easy to press button and a beep after recording.
    Hassle-free refund within 100 days from purchase.
    Ergonomic design.
    Plastic case is provided for safe storage.

Negatives:

    It doesn’t have backlight, so difficult to see in dim lighting.
    Provided results only in Fahrenheit. Cannot switch to Celsius.

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3. Bongmi Smart Basal Femometer

Bongmi is a successful start-up company which mainly focuses on developing health related products. Among their products, femometer is the best-selling and trusted one. It has been awarded as a winner in 2016 iF Awards for its blended style, reliability and accuracy.

This product has taken third place in our list because of its intelligent analysis of reading the temperature. Femometer analyses and records the basal temperature of a body accurately. Apart from that, it also helps to calculate pregnancy chances daily and acts an early-stage pregnancy monitor.

With ±0.09℉ accuracy, this thermometer can measure tiny changes in the body temperature and translates into interpretable data. The stainless steel sensor, 24-digit high accuracy data collection chip, fast cool down thermistor and fine workmanship makes it provide doubt-free readings.

By taking the cap off and on, you can automatically turn on/off the thermometer. The thermometer doesn’t have a display but the readings are recorded and synced with the mobile application. It also keeps a track of cervical fluid, intimacy dates, ovulation, weight, medication and others.

This device can store up to 300 BBT readings so you can recall previous recordings easily. You don’t have to worry about complicated charting with this device because it synchronizes automatically via Bluetooth (smartphones iOs 8.0+, Android 4.3+) or through Cloud Sync. This feature is very beneficial as you don’t have to worry about losing the data or charting daily.

Advantages of using femometer with mobile Application are…

    You can track fertility over extended time periods.
    Better and accurate overview of your reproductive health.
    App will notify the alerts and updates when you are in fertility window.
    Identifying the temperature changes and ovulation.

As the mobile application charts the data in color-coded charts, it will be easy to understand the data. You can securely share the accurate information with your doctor through the application.

After using this application consistently for at least 30 days, it will understand your body patterns. Even if you forget to take the temperature one day, it will automatically predict the temp based on your previous readings.

Advanced machine learning algorithm used by Femometer adjusts and detects even minute fluctuations to provide accurate readings. Apart from that, by using this device, women can also learn their fertility window, irregularities during pregnancy, when she is pregnant (temp spikes), and all the information required to take important decisions.

The only thing we didn’t like about this femometer is that the mobile application is not compatible with certain mobiles. So, it is better to check its compatibility before purchasing it. As it doesn’t have a display, buying it can be useless if we cannot access the mobile application.

Its ergonomic design makes it user-friendly and gorgeous. It is small, compact, lightweight and the design of it looks like a lipstick. It comes in 5 colors: pink, purple, rose gold, and blue. Imported ABS material is used for making it which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

Positives:

    Accurate and records within a minute.
    Device storage up to 300 BBT data.
    The data will synced with the mobile application.
    Fashionable, durable design.
    Mobile app has clear display of ovulation, fertile and infertile days.
    FDA and CE approved.
    High quality anti-bacterial material.
    1 year warranty.

Negatives:

    The application is not compatible with certain mobiles.

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4. Wink by Kindara Fertility Thermometer

Kindara is one of the first companies to introduce thermometers that are specially designed for tracking fertility. It has amazing features that every FAM’s lover would admire. Whether you want to get pregnant quickly or avoid pregnancy naturally, this thermometer is very helpful.

As per the users, this is by far the best basal body thermometer because of its quality and own tracking mobile application. Kindara Application uses Bluetooth 4.0 for syncing. Paring this device with its mobile application is much simpler than others. It just takes few seconds. The company provides illustrations and simple directions for easy and idiot-proof setup.

This makes it very effective in determining the ovulation period. This device just take 30 seconds or less to record the accurate temperature. You can see the recordings in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The recorded information is automatically synced to the mobile application so you don’t have to worry about charting it manually.

The Wink can store the temperature reading until it syncs to the mobile application. So, even if your phone is not in the range, it will sync later when the phone is in range.

This thermometer has soft exteriors which make it very comfortable for daily use. As it has a backlit display, you can clearly read the recordings even in dim lighting. Instead of giving a jarring beep, the thermometer vibrates when the temperature recording it complete.

If you are concerned about fertility then the kindara app is the best because it is designed based on the FAM (fertility awareness methods). Using this app, you can connect with other women who are tracking cycles and get advice from them.

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With Wink, you don’t have worry about battery cost and replacing the device in the mid-cycle because it is rechargeable. The Kindara will notify you when the battery is low. It just take 1 – 2 hours to get completely charged which is good enough to work for few months.

The working principle and algorithm of Wink is different from others. That is why some women who have been using other BBT’s think that either the product is broken or inaccurate. Most of the old BBT’s require pre-warming before using it so that it is in room temperature. However, wink’s algorithm is pre-designed to adjust to room temperature first and then take the readings. If you unknowingly pre-warm the device then its sensor will start at high temperature and provide inaccurate results.

Note: Without allowing the device to return back to room temperature, it is not recommended to take multiple readings in a row. This may be normal with other BBT’s but Wink’s algorithm is not designed for it. When you have already taken a temperature reading, the wink will be in a warm state. It takes some time to get back to room temperature. If you start taking another readings immediately, it will start at warmer state and mess up your readings.

The only drawback is that the parts of this thermometer are a bit delicate. You have to be careful to make sure it doesn’t fall down. Some people were not happy with the popping the device in/out of the base as it make a little bit noise which may be disturbing for people sleeping beside you.

Positives:

    The recorded data is automatically synced to an app.
    More comfortable and ergonomic than other.
    Backlit feature helps to see recording even in dim lighting.
    A soft vibration after recording instead of jarring beep.
    Designed based on FAM.

Negatives:

    The material used is a bit delicate.

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5. Emay Smart Basal Thermometer and Fertility Monitor

EMAY is one of the youngest brands which mainly concentrates in providing new way of family health management. It integrates latest technology into traditional home care products to manage your health more intelligently.

The basal body thermometer presented by EMAY is one of the best fertility monitors you can depend on if you are planning for pregnancy. This is 0.01 degree reading thermometer which means that it will provide highly accurate recording without any calculation, prediction or guessing work.

It measures the temperature and syncs it automatically into the mobile application. Once the readings are accumulated, the intuitive APP will also analyze, predict and remind you of your upcoming ovulation date, fertile, safe and menstrual period, so you can “take the right action” efficiently.

The mobile application is compatible with all models of Apple IOS system and Android system 4.3. However, it is not compatible with LG phones. You can download the application from Google play store.

The intelligent APP stores all the readings and data without worry of data loss. You can choose between the options: vibration or beeping, you would like to be notified once your temp is recorded.

This thermometer takes 2 minutes on an average to record the temperature because it provides only accurate results unlike other thermometers which usually provide results on guesswork or calculation.

This thermometer is perfect for people who are trying to conceive, want to manage menstrual cycle or avoid pregnancy. Its battery lasts for more than 3 months once charged.

Positives:

    Clinically Highly Accurate.
    01 degree reading basal body thermometer.
    Intelligent mobile application.
    Durable and ergonomic design.
    1 year warranty for quality issues.

Negatives:

    The mobile application is not compatible with LG phones.

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6. iSnow-Med Digital Thermometer

iSnow-Med is a perfect combination of functionality and style. With this thermometer, you can get one step closer to become a parent. Its accuracy is what makes it the best from other thermometers present in the market.

Most of the digital thermometers will provide measurement based on calculation method, not the real ones. However iSnow-Med basal body thermometer has high accuracy temperature sensor which detects the temperature step-by-step. Once it gets the peak value, it waits for 10 seconds to confirm whether it is the peak temperature or not and them beeps for notification.

With high accuracy of 1/100 degree reading BBT thermometer (±0.05℃, 0.09℉), it is the perfect for tracking ovulation, fertile and infertile days.

It has memory recall feature for up to 60 days. The memories not only contain the temperature but also have the date and time you have taken it. This makes it perfect for people who are lazy in charting.

The soft blue backlight and large LCD monitor makes it easy to read the recordings even in the dark and dim environments. The clock function of the thermometer will remind you measure the BBT at the same time every morning.

One disadvantage of this thermometer is that you have to manually chart the reading to track the ovulation. If you are not a fan of daily charting then this may not be the ideal option.

A safe case and BBT chart is provided with the thermometer. So, if you are a frequent traveler then you can easily carry it around in your handbag.

Positives:

    Great for monitoring ovulation cycle.
    Clinically high measurement accuracy.
    Soft blue backlight, large LCD monitor and easy to read.
    60 memories recall feature.
    Built-in alarm clock.

Negatives:

    The display is not waterproof.
    The thermometer stem is thick.

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7. The Baby Makers Thermometer

Last but not the least from the list comes the thermometer from the brand The Baby Maker Products. This company is dedicated to develop products that help women to enhance fertility and future.

It is the perfect choice when it comes to family planning, because it is clinically tested and approved unlike other digital thermometers. This means that you can increase the chances of pregnancy.

As it can display 1/100th degree of your temperature, this thermometer can be a useful tool in tracking ovulation. The temperature has to be recorded first thing in the morning even before you wake up. However, if you are not a morning person then take the temperature and leave it. This thermometer has memory recall option so you can chart the reading later.

The drawbacks of this temperature are manual charting and no backlight option. If you don’t like charting then probably go with other products from our list.

A hard plastic case is provided so that it can be maintained safely. It is lightweight, compact and convenient to use. A detailed instruction manual is also included in the package.

Positives:

    Lightweight and compact.
    Hard protective case.
    Satisfaction guaranteed.
    30 day money back guaranteed.
    Top notch customer service.

Negatives:

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Buying Guide – Basal Body Thermometers

Below, we have covered almost all the information related to basal body thermometer. This information will help you select the right one.

Things to look out for in a Basal Body thermometer

When purchasing a basal body thermometer, you have to consider some important factors with which you can testify its reliability. We have explained them below for your convenience…

1. Digital Vs Glass

First thing to consider while selecting a thermometer is whether you want a digital thermometer or glass thermometer. Digital thermometers come with a lot of advantages like easy to read, lets you know the time to leave the thermometer and others. They are strong and durable compared to glass thermometers. Some digital thermometers also has mobile application connectivity which is helpful in terms of maintaining the charts accurately. The drawbacks of digital thermometers are – need batteries to operate and a bit pricey.

When it comes to glass thermometer, they are fragile and take more time to read. However, they are less pricey and don’t need batteries to operate.

2. Accuracy

The accuracy of a basal body thermometer depends on the readings of thermometer. For perfect results, the measurements should be either 100th of a degree for Celsius or 10th of a degree for Fahrenheit. These reading measurements are perfect when you are charting for ovulation.

3. Easy to Use

Thermometer should be easy to use as you will be using it first thing in the morning (that’s when your body will be in completely relaxed state). Taking it a while after waking up can give you inaccurate results.

4. Notification

Digital basal body thermometers have beeping or vibration feature. They notify you when the thermometer completes recording the reading. This can be the best beneficial feature if you don’t know how much time to leave the thermometer. In general, you have to leave it for at least 30 seconds to note the temperature.

Note: Beware of the basal body thermometers that claim to read the temperature within 1 – 2 seconds. As it is difficult to note the temperature in such small time, the result can be inaccurate.

5. Display

If you are purchasing a digital thermometer then make sure the display is very good. It has to be large enough and the text clarity should be clear. Having a backlight option to it is more beneficial because it will easy to read the display even in dark and dim lighting conditions.

6. Comfort

As you will use it daily for a long period of time, comfort should be an important factor. Thin thermometer is uncomfortable to use and read the temperature. You should also avoid any device that has sharp edges.

7. Memory

If you are not a morning person then make sure it has a memory recall option (remembers the last temperature taken). This can be helpful if you want to make note of temperature later as you might be still half asleep when taking the temperature.

What is the Importance of Charting the Basal Body Temperature?

    Every menstrual cycle is unique because not everyone will ovulate exactly on 14th day of the cycle. If you daily chart the temperature readings, you can predict the ovulation date exactly.
    Charting is one of the best ways to increase the chances of getting pregnant as you can identify the most fertile time of your cycle.
    It helps to identify whether ovulation is taking place or not.
    As you can identify fertile and infertile period of your cycle, this method also acts as birth control planning to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
    This method helps to identify any issues with your menstrual cycle like anovulation, luteal phase defects and others.

What is the Best Time to Start Charting the Temperature?

You have to chart the temperatures right from the first day of your menstrual cycle. From then, you have to continue taking the readings at the same time throughout your entire cycle. While charting every day, take the readings at the same time upon waking up.

Once you chart for 2 months, you may observe that you can avoid the first few days of your menstrual cycle (until day 5 or 7). However, we recommend taking them until you understand your ovulation and menstrual cycle perfectly.

Can Anything Have an Impact on Temperature Readings?

It is true that even small factors can have a major impact on reading the temperatures. We have mentioned few of them below.

    Illness like cold, sinus, fever and others.
    Taking temperature at a different time every day.
    Too warm and too cold environments.
    Breathing with mouth while sleeping.
    Moving too much before taking the temperature.
    Drinking, smoking, talking and eating before taking the temperature.

Different Places to Measure Basal Body Temperature

Temperatures can vary depending on the place/area you measure it. When it comes to basal body temperature, you can take it oral, vaginal or rectal. Using one or more methods daily can help you analyze the accurate reading.

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1. Taking Vaginal Readings

This is considered to the most recommended area for accurate and doubt-free readings. After taking the temperature, thermometer doesn’t need any special hygienic cleaning and washing in warm water is enough. However, if you have vaginal infections then it is better choose other forms of taking temperature. If you are not comfortable with this method then you can taking oral readings.

2. Taking Oral Readings

This is the most comfortable area to take the temperature. However, the temperature can vary depending on the individual area (higher back or lower front) of the tongue you place the thermometer. It also takes more time and precision to provide the accurate reading. This is highly recommended and preferable for women/girls who want/have to avoid vaginal and rectal measurements.

3. Taking Rectal Readings

This method is the most stable and least comfortable forms of taking the temperature. However, you have to maintain hygienic standards while maintaining the thermometer to avoid infections. You have to disinfect the thermometer after usage and oil it before taking the measurement.

What is the Right Process of Charting the BBT Temperature?

Most of the women use BBT charting to plan for pregnancy or as birth control. So, it is very important to know the right way of charting it. Because if you make mistakes while doing it then you will miscalculate and end up with wrong data. To help you with proper procedure, we have provided a detailed explanation on how and when to chart or take the readings…

    Purchase a Basal Body Thermometer from any local store. Avoid taking a normal thermometer as it is not capable of recording minute changes in the temperature.
    Buy a BBT chart/normal graph paper or set up an excel spreadsheet.
    As small body changes like sitting up or getting out of bed can have an impact on the temperature readings, so make sure to keep the thermometer, chart and pen on your bedside table.
    Set an alarm for the same time every morning. Sleeping an hour more can also change the temperature readings. So, we recommend taking the readings within the same 30-minute window.
    Start taking and charting the readings from Day 1 of your menstrual cycle.
    Avoid eating, drinking, walking or smoking before taking the temperature.
    You can either take the readings orally, rectally or vaginally. If you sleep with your mouth open then it is better to take vaginal reading.
    Once your chart the readings daily, wait for at least 1 month or until the cycle completes, in order to read the data.
    Once you recorded for 1 complete month, analyze the behaviour of temperature readings. It may take at least 2 – 3 months to understand the pattern correctly as you are looking for a minute change of 0.4 degree. This slight different over 48 hour period gap indicates ovulation.
    Some women prefer to draw a coverline for better visualization of two menstrual cycle phases – luteal phase and follicular phase.

Couple of other tips…

    If you forget to chart the temperature reading or oversleep then just take the readings and chart it with a note.
    Make sure you have at least 3 – 5 hours of proper sleep every night. This helps in getting accurate readings every time. However, if you don’t get proper sleep any day, take the readings and chart them with a note for the same.

What is the Method to Draw a Coverline?

A coverline is drawn on the BBT chart to understand the biphasic pattern i.e., before ovulation (follicular phase) and after ovulation (luteal phase). This helps in identifying any issues about the cycle health.

It is a bit tricky to draw a cover line. But we have mentioned an easy way to do it.

    While you are charting daily, look out for a pattern where 3 days where the temperature is higher than last 6 days. Confused on which temperature counts as higher? Then look out for 0.2 or 1/10th of a degree Fahrenheit higher than previous six days. If it is 0.4 degree F then it is even better.
    Once the 3 days are identifies, make of the previous 6 days.
    Now, find out the highest temperature among those 6 days then draw a straight line above it which is 1/10th degree Fahrenheit more. Confused, here is an example: if the highest temperature among the 6 days is 97.5 then you have a draw a line at 97.6 degree. And this line is called the coverline.

Note: These steps mentioned based up on the FAM’s and it works best for women with clear BBT patterns. For a normal cycle, the temperatures after ovulation stay high for about 12 days. If it doesn’t then it indicates luteal phase defect or short period of luteal phase.

How to Identify Ovulation Using BBT Chart?

When you look at the BBT chart, instead of looking at temperature spikes, we recommend considering the overall pattern. The temperatures will increase and decrease depending on your menstrual phase. However, you will observe a biphasic pattern right after the ovulation. This states that there will be lower temperature before ovulation and increase after it.

For example: Usually before ovulation, women’s basal body temperature will be between 36.1 degree Celsius (97°F) and 36.4 degree Celsius (97.5°F). After the ovulation happens, it raises to 36.4 degree Celsius (97.5°F) to 37 degree Celsius (98.6°F).

In the graph pattern, if you can see the 3 increased temperature than average, then the day before the first temperature indicates ovulation day. If you are lucky enough then you can notice a sharp dip in temperature on the ovulation day. Most of the women can notice this over 3 months of BBT charting experience. Once you can notice the consistent temperature dip from month to month, you will be sure of the fertile and infertile days.

Note: Make sure to take the temperature daily at the same time in the bed after waking up. You have to chart the measurements for at least 3 months to determine the approximate ovulation day in the menstrual cycle. The temperature dips and spikes can vary among the women. The changes of temperature can be either sudden or gradual. Some women use BBT along with ovulation kit for more accurate information.

What If the BBT Chart Indicates I am Not Ovulating?

Predicting the ovulation is the main reason why we rely on BBT chart. In some cases, women may not ovulate due to any internal issues. Here are few signs you can observe on the chart that indicate that you are not ovulating…

    No constant temperature rise.
    Irregular onset of periods.
    Menstrual cycles that are either too long (more than 35 days) or too short (less than 28 days).
    Luteal phase defect (less than 9 days).

If ovulation doesn’t occur or happens irregularly then conception is impossible which indicates an infertility risk. This condition is referred to as anovulation. Doctor often prescribes fertility drugs to women who are experiencing anovulation. These drugs help to induce ovulation which opens up a chance to get pregnant.

How Does BBT Chart Increase the Chances of Pregnancy?

If you want to use BBT chart for planning pregnancy then the first thing you have to do is – observe the patterns. If you observe ovulation days on specific time of the menstrual phase then get physical with your partner at this time.

For example: over the period of 3 months, if you observe that you ovulated on 11th, 12th and 15th day of your cycle then have intercourse daily from Day 6 to Day 16 (ovulation index or fertile period).

Please note that, you don’t need to have sex on just ovulation day to get pregnant. Sperm can stay alive for 6 days in our reproductive system. So, the ovulation index should be good enough for the sperm to reach the egg. Some couple prefer having sex alternative days during the fertile period which is a very good plan.

Does BBT Chart Indicate Possible Pregnancy?

For this question the answer will be both – yes and no. Most of the women charting BBT look for temperature pattern if they are very eager to know of their possible pregnancy.

If you are one of them then here are 4 ways a BBT chart can notify the possible pregnany…

1. Intercourse on Fertile Days

Your BBT chart doesn’t tell when you will ovulate. However, it indicates when ovulation has occurred. By this means you can calculate whether you had intercourse on the right days. You have high chances of pregnancy if you have intercourse on two preceding days of ovulation.

2. Implantation Dip

It is indicated by 1 day temperature drop a week after the ovulation occurs. In most of the cases, an implantation dip is often miscalculated by mid-cycle temperature dip which is not possible sign of pregnancy. It is still quite debatable whether we can consider implantation dip in BBT chart can be calculated as early pregnancy symptom or not.

3. Triphasic Pattern

Second temperature rise that occurs 1 week after ovulation is referred as Triphasic pattern. Observing these patterns can be an indication of possible pregnancy but it is not 100% true in all times. This pattern is observed when there is an increase in progesterone which is likely to occur in early weeks of pregnancy. However, this increase can also happen due to other issues apart from conception.

4. Long Luteal Phase

This is an old traditional method and most reliable ones for detecting pregnancy. If the time duration between ovulation and expected onset of period is longer than usual then it indicates pregnancy.

In most of the cases, the luteal phase length is not more than 1 or 2 days from cycle to cycle (even if the menstrual cycle is irregular). If suppose, the woman’s menstrual cycle length is 30 – 35 days then the luteal phase will be 12 – 13 days long.

So, if the luteal phase is at least 1 or 2 days more than normal length then pregnancy is likely. If it is more than 2 days then there is a higher chance of pregnancy. You can take a pregnancy test now for confirmation.

What else Can We Track Using BBT Chart?

If you think BBT charting is just for predicting ovulation then you are wrong. It is capable of tracking several other things. We have explained them below for your information…

1. Intercourse Reference:

Charting the days you had sex in the BBT charts helps you and your doctor to understand whether you are having intercourse at the right time. There is a 5 – 7 days window for becoming pregnant which you wouldn’t want to miss. You can calculate this period using your data from BBT. Charting your intercourse days also helps understand your sexual activity.

2. Cervical Discharge:

Charting your cervical mucus changes helps in determining the ovulation day more accurately. Usually, tracking temperature changes will let you know when the ovulation has happened. But this time, fertile days gone. But cervical changes will let you know when you ovulate. So, this increases the chances of planning for pregnancy.

3. Position of Cervix

Usually, the cervix will get softer, more open and move higher as you approach the ovulation day. Once the ovulation is completed, it becomes lower, firmer and partially closed.

4. Random Illness

Small health changes like cold and sinus can have an impact on your basal body temperature. Poor sleep can also impact the temperature readings. Charting it can help you understand why there is a sudden and odd temperature difference.

5. Ovulation Kit

Most of the women try to use ovulation predictor kits along with BBT charts. If you are one of them then you can make a note of in the BBT chart. This data helps you understand your ovulation pattern.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What If I am Still Not Able to Conceive Using BBT Chart?

If you charted the temperature correctly every day, participated in sex in the fertile window and still haven’t been able to conceive then it’s time to consult a medical professional. It can be caused due to fertility issues that BBT chart couldn’t pick up. Male fertility can also be a reason. So, it is better both the partners consult the doctor.

2. If I Suspect Infertility, How Many Months Should I Wait Before Consulting a Doctor?

If you are irregular menstrual cycles then BBT charting is not much helpful. So, consult a doctor instead of time wasting on charting. However, if you have regular and normal-length menstrual cycles, you have to wait for at least 3 months before consulting for a help.

3. Why is This Basal Body Temperature Method Accurate?

Once the ovulation process is complete, our body produces progesterone hormone. This hormone indicates the uterine lining to prepare for possible implantation. Apart from that, it also increases the basal body temperature which stays elevated until menstruation starts. If conception takes place, the temperature rise will stay elevated until first trimester.

4. How Much Accurate is the BBT Method?

Most of the women charting their BBT observe a drop before ovulation and rise after ovulation. However, these changes may or may not happen on the ovulation day. As per a research, on an average only 11% of women observes temperature rise on the ovulation day and 40% of women experienced a drop in temperature within the ovulation day.

5. Is this Method Suitable for Everyone?

Most of the women think that BBT charting helps in predict the fertile period (which helps in either planning or avoiding pregnancy). However, this isn’t true in all cases.

Actually, every women has fertile window of 5 days before ovulation and the day when egg is released. But BBT chart indicates ovulation 12 – 24 after the ovulation is done. By this time the fertile period is completed.

This is the reason why BBT chart is perfect for women who have regular menstrual cycle. They can use the data of previous month and predict their upcoming fertile window.

6. What if I have to pee in the middle of the night? Will the results be same or inaccurate?

If you have to use the washroom in the middle of the night then we recommend taking the temperature first as soon as you wake up, go to the pee and sleep. Again in the morning, take the temperature and observe if you see any difference. Some women are more sensitive so that temperature can vary a lot. While some may not observe any difference. Just for few days, see the pattern. If you don’t observe any change then you don’t have to take the temperature if you wake up in the middle of night.

7. What if I don’t like Charting? Are there any other ways?

For some busy women, charting daily can be a stressful job. If charting isn’t your type then you can follow other FAM’s (Fertility Awareness Methods) for either planning or avoiding pregnancy. For example, ovulation kits are helpful as they measure the hormone levels and predict when you ovulate.

8. What is the average basal body temperature during early weeks of pregnancy?

The average basal body temperature stays between 98 to 99 degrees without drastic dip for 18 days after ovulation.

9. As per my BBT chart, the temperature were up for more than 18 days but I am not pregnant. Why does this happen?

This has to be discussed with your doctor. Fertility medications and corpus luteum cyst can lead to long luteal phase. Getting ultrasound or blood pregnancy test is required to know the proper cause.

10. During the Luteal Phase, temperature has dropped for a day? What does This Mean?

If it is just for a day then there is nothing to worry. Some people may experience a drop which goes beyond the coverline. This is due to the secondary estrogen surge. Usually, this is often accompanied by mucus. But if the temperature drop stays down for more than 2 days then consult a doctor.

11. In my BBT chart, I observed either higher/lower than average readings. What does this indicate?

This happens only when thyroid is not functioning properly. If you are observing low BBT’s then it is an indication of hypothyroid. High BBT’s provide an indication of hyperthyroid. Thyroid dysfunction can often lead to pregnancy and fertility issues.

12. I am using both ovulation kit and BBT Charting. When will the temperature rise after a positive result on ovulation kit?

After getting a positive result, you may ovulate around 12 – 48 hours. And usually, temperatures will rise within 48 hours of ovulating. Thus, it takes 4 – 5 days to observe a rise. Some women can even see the temperature rise on within 3 days.

13. My BBT graph looks like Rocky Mountains (Spikes and Dips). What can be the reason?

There can be different possibilities for this…

    You are not taking the temperatures constantly or not having a sound sleep.
    You may be taking temperature orally but you sleep with mouth open.
    You are not ovulating. If this is case, then you have to consult a doctor for checking hormone levels to find out the reason for anovulation.

14. There is no spike or dip in my temperature, does that mean I am not ovulating?

You may or may not be. Temperature may go haywire in some situations like, if you…

    Have irregular menstrual cycles.
    Exercise a lot.
    Under certain medication (affecting the hormones).
    Had an intercourse.

So, we recommend to chart the data for 3 – 4 months. If you still don’t see any spike or dip in the temperature then consult a doctor to find out the underlying fertility issues.

15. I am under fertility medications. Will my BBT’s be accurate?

If you are taking fertility medications like clomid or injectables then basal body temperature will not be accurate. Clomid leads to elevated BBT until you take them. Some women also experience a triphasic elevation or long luteal phase without pregnancy. So, monitoring is very important when you are charting under medication.

16. Do progesterone raise my basal body temperatures?

Yes, they do. Natural progesterone levels will rise the temperature for .1 or .2. Progesterone medications like Provera can have impact on the levels as well.

17. What is the difference between basal and normal thermometers?

The thermometer you measure to check the temperature during flu is not appropriate to check the basal temperature of your body. Regular ones consider overall changes in the body to identify fever. Whereas basal thermometers will consider even minuscule changes happening in the body throughout the menstrual cycle. The results can be accurate to 0.1 degree Fahrenheit variance. This slight change helps to determine the exact ovulation date.

18. Which basal body thermometers should you avoid?

Before you purchase any thermometer, make sure to read the reviews online. Because some of the cheap ones may not last long or provide inaccurate results. Avoid purchasing a thermometer that doesn’t have proper display reading and memory recall feature.

19. How to Choose a BBT Chart? – Graph Vs Mobile Application

This is the first concern of many women who are trying to use BBT chart as their family planning method. BBT charts are available in printed manual charts and mobile applications.

If you are wondering where to buy a BBT chart graph then you can get in some fertility books, local pharmacies or online stores. You can also try fertility calendar mobile applications on your smart phone.

Some women prefer making their own charts. If you are one of them, then you have to place the temperature along the vertical and 1/10th of a degree for each square. On the horizontal side of the graph, mention the days of the cycle.

As per our choice, we recommend women to download BBT chart mobile applications. Advantages of using them include

    Reducing the chance of human error, can log a ton of information, and prevents data loss.
    The software of the mobile application will automatically detect ovulation, fertile days, infertile days and other issues.
    The temperature readings taken by the thermometer will be automatically synced to the application via Bluetooth. So, you don’t have to worry about storing it every time.

Once you get a chart or download a mobile application on your smart phone, you can start taking the basal body temperature daily.

20. Which one to choose: basal body thermometer or Ovulation Kit?

Taking the temperature and charting it daily can be a stressful affair. That is why some people prefer to try ovulation kits instead of them.

Ovulation kits can be beneficial in terms of predicting when you are going to ovulate. They check for high levels of LH – luteinizing hormones which is produced before ovulation. However, these test results can be wrong or misleading.

It is not recommended to just rely alone on it for predicting the fertile days. Because ovulation kit may indicate approaching ovulation, however it doesn’t let your know whether it happened or not.

In some cases, women can experience positive ovulation but may not ovulate. We have mentioned few cases below…

    Some women experience false temporary rise of LH hormones before the actual temperature rise.
    Women having hormonal issues like PCOD can produce LH hormone multiple times during a menstrual cycle without ovulating at all.
    Women whose age is more than 40 usually have elevated levels of LH hormone throughout the cycles. This can provide a risk of false positive results.

In some situations, ovulation kits can provide false negatives too. Few of them are…

    If you have LH surge within 10 hours and just check once in a day then you may miss the peak surge and you may think ovulation didn’t take place.
    Sometimes, you may not produce enough LH that cannot be considered by the kit then you will get negative result even if you ovulate.

If you are under fertility medication, especially which contains FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), certain antibiotics, HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and HRT (hormone replacement therapy) then validity of the ovulation kit is quite questionable.

And even if you get a prefect positive ovulation result, it doesn’t mean you will get pregnant for sure if there is no fertile cervical mucus in the vagina.

That is why, if you are planning pregnancy, you should have a check on ovulation kit (to know when you ovulating), basal body temperature (to know if you are ovulating), and cervical mucus (to understand if the vaginal fluids are fertile). Remember that just before the ovulation, the cervical mucus will be watery and of egg white consistency.

With all that being said, if you are in the process of learning how to predict fertility signs, we recommend using both basal body temperature charting, cervical mucus method and ovulation kits for trustworthy information.

Few Words Before Leaving

When it comes to family planning, ovulation day is the only chance you can get pregnant. Basal body thermometers are the best way to track down your ovulation. As per the accuracy and quality, we highly recommend “Health Tree Smart Period Tracker Fertility Monitor“.

If you have any queries, write to is in the comment section below. We are more than happy to clarify your doubts.

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