How does the temperature typically change during ovulation?

During ovulation, the body experiences a slight increase in basal body temperature, which occurs due to hormonal changes. Specifically, after ovulation, there is a rise in progesterone levels released by the corpus luteum. Progesterone has a thermogenic effect, which means it raises the body's temperature. This temperature shift is usually around 0.5 to 1.0 degrees Fahrenheit above the baseline temperature.

Monitoring this change in temperature can be particularly useful for individuals tracking their ovulation as a part of fertility awareness methods. Typically, the temperature remains elevated until menstruation occurs, at which point it drops back to baseline levels if pregnancy does not occur. This pattern helps indicate the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, thereby providing critical insights into reproductive health.