Yes, periods can affect body temperature.
How Periods Can Affect Body Temperature
During your menstrual cycle, your body goes through hormonal fluctuations that can influence your internal temperature. Here's how:
- Progesterone: This hormone rises during the luteal phase (after ovulation) and can cause a slight increase in body temperature.
- Estrogen: This hormone dips during your period, which can lead to a temporary drop in body temperature.
What to Expect
You might notice a slight increase in body temperature during the luteal phase, especially around ovulation. This is often referred to as the "ovulatory shift" and can be a sign of fertility. During your period, you may experience a slight decrease in body temperature.
Factors to Consider
While periods can affect body temperature, other factors can also play a role, including:
- Stress
- Sleep patterns
- Medications
- Illness
Tips for Tracking
If you're concerned about your body temperature fluctuations, it's a good idea to track your cycle using a basal body temperature (BBT) chart. This can help you identify patterns and understand how your body temperature changes throughout your cycle.
