Mr. X is an only child, and Miss Du, although only 28 years old, has been married for over two years. She is constantly bombarded with messages about the importance of having a child at a young age, which makes her anxious and frustrated. The doctor advises her to track her basal body temperature, but she wonders why she needs to do so when her menstrual cycle is always regular. This is a common question raised in clinics. Firstly, it is important to correct a misconception that having a menstrual period every month does not necessarily mean ovulation occurs every month. Some individuals experience menstrual bleeding without ovulation, which is medically termed "anovulatory menstrual cycles."

 

Determining ovulation is even more challenging, and there are over ten different methods to predict ovulation. These methods include:
1.Basal body temperature method
2.Cervical mucus examination
3.Hormone monitoring
4.Vaginal cell smear test
5.Endometrial biopsy
6.Ultrasonography monitoring
7.Luteinizing hormone (LH) testing using LH kits

 

By spending a few minutes each day recording basal body temperature, valuable data can be obtained for predicting ovulation. This data includes the presence of ovulation, the date of ovulation, and the adequacy of luteal phase function, among others. It is evident that basal body temperature is highly useful. By recording basal body temperature for 2-3 months, a physician may be able to identify the time frame around ovulation for optimal intercourse. In cases of inadequate luteal phase function, supplementation with progesterone after ovulation may be recommended, potentially leading to pregnancy without the need for artificial insemination.

 

Of course, the measurement of basal body temperature must be accurate. As the saying goes, "A good workman always sharpens his tools." Firstly, you need to purchase a specialized basal body temperature thermometer. Then, to obtain the most accurate measurement, it is recommended to take your temperature after a normal, uninterrupted sleep. Upon waking up in the morning, before getting out of bed, exercising, or speaking, you should immediately measure your temperature. The thermometer should be placed under the tongue for 5 minutes, and then removed to record the temperature.

 

By connecting the dots of each day, a chart of the basal body temperature can be created. Additionally, recording the menstrual period, days of sexual intercourse, and any relevant events or factors that may influence the temperature (such as staying up late, drinking alcohol, or having an argument) can be noted. When presenting the completed "homework" (basal body temperature chart) during monthly clinic visits, the physician can determine whether your temperature pattern is monophasic (indicating anovulation) or biphasic (with distinct high and low temperatures, indicating ovulation), and assess the adequacy of the luteal phase. Based on this information, the physician can provide instructions for the optimal timing of intercourse in the next cycle. By seizing the opportunities identified through this process, the chances of success are increased.