BBT charting kept simple.

Basal body temperature (BBT) charting, when done accurately over a period of 3-6 months, is a great tool acupuncturists, and other health practitioners alike, love to use when seeing women and couples who are trying to conceive. I always say that its not for everyone, but it's definitely something to consider.

Most women trying to conceive have most likely heard of BBT charting, especially for the purpose of monitoring ovulation and a woman's fertile window. What many women may be surprised to hear though, is that BBT charts are not just a tool to help monitor the presence or absence of ovulation, but rather it can be used to monitor the complex nature of a woman's entire menstrual cycle. Together with the monitoring of other signs and symptoms throughout a woman's cycle, it allows us to have a deeper understanding of what's going on, and determine an even more tailored treatment approach for someone trying to conceive.

Charting your BBT and keeping it simple!

Charting and interpreting a woman's basal body temperature can be a challenging task at times, especially whilst trying to conceive. Below are some tips to make the whole process a little bit easier (for you and your practitioner):

#1: When choosing a thermometer, be sure to use one that measures to 2 decimals (1/100th of a degree). Changes in basal temperatures are so subtle that in order for your readings to be interpreted as accurately as possible the more accurate the thermometer the better.

#2: Keep it on your bedside table. It's important to measure your basal temperature at a similar time each morning. The first few days may be a bit tricky, but after a while, it becomes second nature. Keeping your thermometer next to you allows you to take a reading first thing in the morning, without having to get up and move around, which is vital for getting an accurrate-as-possible basal temperature reading.

#3: Don’t skip a reading, but do make note of any factors that may have affected your reading on the day. Many women find BBT charting hard, mainly because there are so many factors that can affect a reading, and often forget to take it at the right time. If you forget to take your temperature before getting up to use the bathroom don’t stress, just take it afterward and make a note that you used the bathroom. Your practitioner will factor in all the information when interpreting your chart.

#4: Take note of other signs and symptoms you may have through the day. BBT charts with only temperature readings only offer so much information, but in combination with monitoring cervical mucus and other signs and symptoms such as headaches, mood swings, cramps, and dizziness, gives us a more accurate picture or any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

#5: Let your health practitioner interpret your charts. One of the main reasons women find it stressful to chart their BBT is that they feel the pressure to interpret their results on a daily basis. Try not to fall into this trap. In order for BBT readings to be of use, typically 2-3 cycles worth of BBT charting is necessary.

#6: Use an APP! If you're not already doing so, make your life easier by downloading a period tracking app. Look out for an app that allows you to track and chart your BBT readings as well as your day to day symptoms.

Remember BBT charting doesn't have to difficult and most importantly it shouldn't create more stress or pressure for you. Take it every morning when you wake up, and let your practitioner take care of the rest!