The temperature curve is probably the easiest exam to perform in infertility issues. It provides information on the duration and regularity of the cycle, as well as on the presence and date of ovulation. Its realization is quite easy since the examination itself consists of taking your temperature each morning upon waking, before setting foot on the ground (and with the same thermometer), from the 1st day of the cycle (that is to say from the 1st day of menstruation) to the 1st day of the next cycle, during at least 2 consecutive cycles (the duration of 3 cycles is often recommended).
The Different variations
The variations in temperature reflect the variations in the progesterone level. During the first part of the cycle, progesterone and temperature are low. Right after ovulation, progesterone rises in line with body temperature, before falling back at the end of the cycle. Concretely, during the first part of the cycle the temperature fluctuates between 36.1 ° C and 36.7 ° C and then crosses the 37 ° C bar just after ovulation. It is generally useful to note all the manifestations observed over the days: pain, bleeding, taking medication. You can click here to find some perfect options there.
Any abnormality in the temperature curve generally leads to the prescription of a hormonal balance. Please note, the temperature curve cannot be used to determine the right time to conceive a baby. Indeed, the fertility period begins 4 days before ovulation and ends 24 hours after. The variation from a low temperature to a high temperature indicates that ovulation took place the day before. Now an ovum only lives from twelve to fifteen hours: thus a sexual intercourse which takes place after the rise in temperature cannot be fertile because an ovum does not survive beyond twelve to three hours.
Interpreting the temperature curve for getting pregnant
The temperature curve is a simple test to get an idea of her cycle and the date of ovulation. It is not a reliable method of contraception but can help to understand certain fertility difficulties.
Gynecological examination
The gynecological examination usually includes a vaginal examination, a speculum examination and a Pap smear. It makes it possible to detect possible anatomical anomalies or an infection.
Hormonal balance
This blood test is an important part of the diagnosis because hormones regulate all stages of reproduction. Hormonal dosages are essential to confirm a diagnosis and to follow the evolution of the hormone level during ovarian stimulation, artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization for example. The normal values for these hormones depend on each laboratory. Do not try to “interpret” them without specialist advice.
Dosed hormones
The hormonal balance to estimate the ovarian reserve and to check the good functioning of the ovaries thanks to the dosages of various hormone: estradiol, a hormone secreted by the cells which surround the oocyte, FSH and LH, two pituitary hormones , and progesterone, which appears just before ovulation and indicates that ovulation has occurred.
Anomalies detected
Hormonal assays can detect a number of abnormalities. ” This is for example the case of the ovaries not responding or no longer receiving orders from the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, but also hypothyroidism which can cause overweight and can be resolved by suitable treatment “, adds a specialists.
