Preventing Pregnancy
When it comes to preventing pregnancy, the BBT method can be an effective form of birth control, but it requires strict adherence to temperature measurement and diligent planning. In order to avoid unwanted pregnancies, sexual activity should be avoided during fertile days unless the couple uses a barrier method as well. It is important to keep in mind that the days of highest fertility provide the greatest chance of conceiving, but it is still possible to conceive during most of the menstrual cycle. According to some estimates, approximately 24 out of every 100 women who rely on the BBT method for contraception end up getting pregnant each year.
Factors that Affect Basal Body Temperature
There are various factors that can impact the accuracy of basal body temperature (BBT) readings. It is important to be aware of these interfering factors to ensure reliable results.
One significant factor is illness or fever. When the body is unwell, BBT readings become unreliable. It is advisable to avoid tracking BBT during this time.
Other factors that can influence BBT include oversleeping or changes in sleep patterns, stress levels, working in shifts, alcohol consumption, reproductive disorders, certain medications, and travel or time zone differences. These factors can cause fluctuations in body temperature and affect the accuracy of BBT readings.
Additionally, some women who regularly engage in strenuous physical activity, intense exercise, or physically demanding jobs may find it difficult to use the BBT method. This is because their body temperature may not fluctuate significantly before or after ovulation, making it challenging to identify the fertile window through BBT tracking.