What are the benefits of the basal body temperature method?

The basal body temperature method has no side effects. The only cost is the price of the thermometer.

What are the drawbacks of the basal body temperature method?

The basal body temperature method may not accurately predict ovulation in all women, including those with irregular menstrual cycles. It offers no protection from sexually transmitted diseases.

Sometimes this method is not effective in preventing pregnancy due to outside factors that can affect basal body temperature. Factors that can alter this temperature include:

  • Breastfeeding
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Fever caused by illness or infection
  • Oversleeping
  • Stress
  • Taking some medications
  • Traveling to different time zones

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