Checking and reporting your temperature
Everyday, you will report your temperature using a thermometer that we will send to your address after you enrol into the study.
Why are we asking for your body temperature?
Like your cervical mucus, your body temperature also changes throughout the menstrual cycle. These changes are small.
Your lowest body temperature, measured without illness and after rest, is called basal body temperature measured in degrees Celsius (°C). To help us determine your menstrual cycle phase, we will be asking you to report your basal body temperature.
Basal body temperature is lower at the start of the cycle, between 35.5 - 36.6°C. Your body temperature will usually increase 0.5 - 1°C shortly after you ovulate. This happens because our hormone, Progesterone, starts preparing the body for a pregnancy. This increased temperature is often maintained until you start your period. Once your period is over, your body temperature will roughly return to the level it was before ovulation.
How often do you have to report your temperature?
Every morning, we will ask you to report your cervical mucus and temperature. You should measure your temperature in the morning after waking up. Ideally at the same time each day but we know this is not always possible.
We will also ask you what time you woke up and how you slept at night. These will help us get a better idea of your menstrual phase.
What can affect basal body temperature?
Fever, infection, alcohol consumption and emotional stressors can influence your basal body temperature. Each day, we will ask you if you are feeling ill. Don’t worry, this won’t affect your ability to take part - it just helps us understand if anything may be affecting your temperature.
Put the tip of the thermometer under your tongue, towards the back of your mouth
