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This article tells you how to take control of your fertility by monitoring your basal body temperature (BBT).

Your Basal Body Temperature (BBT) is your body's resting temperature and can only be taking first thing in the morning. 

To understand why your BBT is an important factor in charting your fertility, you must first understand your menstrual cycle and the hormonal changes taking place in your body during it.

The first part of your menstrual cycle is known as the "follicular phase", and runs from Cycle Day (CD) 1, through to the day you ovulate.  After ovulating (during your "luteal phase"), your body's progesterone level rises which causes your temperature to rise also - usually at least 0.2 degrees (c). 

Your temperature will remain elevated until your next period arrives or, if you are pregnant, it will remain elevated until you give birth.  Charting your BBT over a few months will allow you to see whether or not your cycles are regular and help you identify the five days prior to ovulating, when you are at your most fertile.

To accurately chart your BBT, you will need an electronic thermometer that is correct to TWO decimal places. You should keep your thermometer within easy reach of your bed and take your temperature before you do anything else - getting out of bed, having a drink, etc. will affect your result and it's imperative that you obtain an accurate reading.

This article was written by Carol from CanYouSeeALine.com

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