Fertile Ground
Drop in and explore Tempdrop’s fertile ground of science-backed insights covering a wide variety of women’s health and fertility-related topics, from menstruation and mental health to PMS, PCOS, and perimenopause.
Fertility4 Best BBT Thermometers to Track Fertility & More 2024Tracking your cycle can dramatically increase your chances of successfully conceiving. In fact, a National Library of Medicine study shows that those who use cycle-tracking systems are more likely to conceive within two menstrual cycles than those who don't.
The various phases of the menstrual cycle affect a variety of things used to track the ideal time to try and get pregnant, such as your basal body temperature (BBT) and cervical mucus. Using your BBT, you can look out for a lower temperature pre-ovulation during the fertile window, and a higher temperature during the luteal phase after ovulation.
So, let's find out the best way to measure BBT.
Our Top Picks for the Best BBT Thermometers to Track Fertility & More
We've put together a list of the best BBT thermometers for you and even qualified them for different purposes to meet your specific fertility needs.
Best Overall: TempdropBest for period tracking: iFertrackerBest for ovulation symptoms: AvaBest for flexible tracking: Daysy
So let's dive right in and review each one!
1. Best Overall BBT Thermometer
Tempdrop is the best wearable BBT thermometer since it uses an algorithm to monitor your sleep patterns, identify your true resting temperature (BBT), and track your nightly and monthly temperatures. This helps identify your fertility window and ovulation for each cycle.
Cycle tracking: Sync your Tempdrop readings with the app to track your symptoms so you can verify your ovulation and cycle phases.Effective for irregular cycles: Tempdrop is tailored to your sleep patterns and menstrual cycle, so you can still track irregular cycles/patterns.Fertility cycle report/statistics: Combining temperature readings with other fertility symptoms can help identify your optimal fertility window.Pregnancy tracking: To determine a more accurate due date, you can add nine months to your temperature shift date, then subtract 7 days. Price: $215
Whether you have a regular daily routine, work in shifts, are experiencing postpartum, or sleep irregularly, Tempdrop's algorithm learns from you and interprets your data on an individual basis.
Unlike a lot of other smart devices and apps that help you track your fertility, the effectiveness is determined by the fertility awareness method you use. Plenty of users have found it useful as they change intentions through trying to conceive, postpartum charting, and even charting for health. Plus, you can choose to sync your data with the Tempdrop app or any other fertility charting app of your choice.
ProsNon-invasiveGreat for all sleep patterns and cyclesCan be used with any intentionSeamless syncing with the free appEasy digital cycle chartingBattery lasts 6 months on averageConsMonthly fee for additional app featuresOnly stores a total of 24 hours worth of sleep data (3 x 8 hour sleep sessions)
2. Best BBT Monitor for Period Tracking
iFertracker is worn overnight with a patch attached to your armpit and collects data for a BBT reading the next morning. Then, you sync it with their app to get your daily BBT.
Cycle tracking: It provides notifications for each phase of your cycle through its app.Effective for irregular cycles: Might not be as effective for irregular periods as it requires you to enter your last period date before tracking can start.Fertility cycle report/statistics: The app converts the daily BBTs into graphics that reflect temperature changes before and after ovulation occurs.Pregnancy tracking: You can use iFertracker to monitor the risk of early pregnancy concerns, like miscarriages.Price: $129
iFertracker helps predict what your cycle will look like. The app notifications can help you learn about your hormonal changes. Using their chart tool can also help you plan ahead.
This product identifies any irregular activity during sleep, like if you get up, making it a useful BBT measurement option.
ProsWireless syncing to appTurns on/off automaticallyStores up to 10 nights of dataRecords relevant events like sexual activity, etc in-appConsSticky patches require replacingApp only available for iOSBattery lasts 45-60 days
» Check out these 10 ways to improve your chances of pregnancy.
3. Best BBT Monitor for Ovulation Symptoms
Ava is a device worn on the wrist, also only during sleep.
Cycle tracking: You can view real-time insight into your cycle phases for up to 12 previously recorded cycles.Effective for irregular cycles: Ava is not effective for irregular periods as it is recommended for women with a cycle length ranging from 24-35 days.Fertility cycle report/statistics: Using the data it collects, Ava pinpoints the 5-day window that's best for you to try for a baby.Pregnancy tracking: It offers pregnancy tracking, and if you purchase the Plus plan, you get a full refund if you are not pregnant within 12 months.Price: From $279-$359
It captures and tracks physiological signals, your input in the app, and your past cycles to help you interpret and predict your ovulation period and fertility window.
Ava is primarily ideal for women trying to conceive as it offers health parameters that can indicate when is the best time to try and get pregnant. These include temperature, physiological stress, sleep, and resting pulse rate.
Because of the cycle length parameters, many women with conditions like PCOS won't be able to use Ava to help them get pregnant.
ProsApp charts multiple biomarkersMeasures pulse and respirationEasy app interfaceMoney-back guarantee for the Plus and Premium plansConsMust have regular cyclesLimited to those trying to conceiveNot for those with implanted electronic devices
4. Best BBT Monitor for Flexible Tracking
Daysy is a BBT thermometer that you use to take your BBT at whatever time you wake up each morning but before you get out of bed.
Cycle tracking: Daysy uses a colored-light system to indicate when you are fertile, infertile, and ovulating.Effective for irregular cycles: It is designed with some irregularity in mind. But if your cycle is outside the 19-40 day range, you can contact Daysy's experts.Fertility cycle report/statistics: Using a unique algorithm, Daysy can calculate the fertile days in your cycle quickly. If the device shows a red light, you are currently or possibly fertile.Pregnancy tracking: When your BBT remains high for more than 18 days, Daysy registers a possible successful conception. Then, all three lights will flash, and once Daysy has calculated a more likely pregnancy, all lights will be solid. DaysyDay will then turn your temperature chart blue in the app.Price: $319
Daysy accommodates your sleep schedule, only requiring at least 1 hour before using the device. Its self-learning algorithm is based on 5 million menstrual cycles. It uses this insight along with your menstruation and ovulation data and your past cycles to deduce your peak fertility periods.
Daysy's app, DaysyDay, allows you to easily view your temperature curve, so you can make informed choices regarding your fertility, ovulation, and menstrual health. Plus, it offers individualized statistics about cycle irregularities or impacts from your current activities.
ProsCalculates fertility status within a single devicePartner app for partner's easy accessCan monitor cervical mucus with free appGood customer supportConsHave to take temperature manuallyApp can be buggyCostly
» See how charting multiple fertility awareness indicators can help you conceive.
Monitor Your BBT and Fertility With Tempdrop
Traditionally, you have to take your BBT when you wake up at the exact same time, which either means you never sleep in or that your sleep is disrupted so you can take your temperature on time. But with modern BBT thermometers and fertility trackers, this is a thing of the past.
And look no further than Tempdrop. Overall, Tempdrop gives you the freedom to use your cycle data for whatever your intentions are and can make your fertility journey easy to follow and navigate.
FertilityDecoding AMH Levels: What They Mean for Your Fertility JourneyIn my experience with clients, many people do not have the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) explained to them properly and it can be an unnecessary source of stress, anxiety, or assumption that a pregnancy may not happen for them. In fact, ACOG recommends against testing for AMH, unless a woman is specifically seeking fertility treatment.
However, when looking at a woman in a holistic picture, AMH can add to the larger picture of where a body may or may not need support and can also give insight into potential response to fertility treatment and even a potential flag for PCOS.
So, let's see how you can decode your AMH levels if you decide to get them tested so that you can have a clearer understanding of what they actually mean when it comes to your fertility journey.
AMH Levels For Fertility
AMH is produced by the ovarian follicles, which can offer valuable insight into a woman's ovarian reserve (how many eggs remain since women are born with a finite number).
AMH levels are about egg stores and quantity and not necessarily the egg health or chances for conception or health of our oocyte/eggs. It's important to remember, AMH levels do not mean your chances of conception are necessarily lower.
But we do need eggs in order to get pregnant. Factors that influence AMH levels include:
LifestyleAgeGeneticsPCOSSmokingCertain cancers/ovarian tumorsSome medications/chemotherapy/radiationObesityVitamin D deficiency
What Is A "Good AMH Level for Fertility?While there is debate about "normal" or optimal AMH levels, a typical AMH level for a woman in her cycling years is 1.0–4.0 ng/ml though this varies by age. While higher levels generally reflect an increased ovarian reserve, levels above 4 can also indicate certain medical conditions such as PCOS.What Is A "Good" AMH Level for IVF?With IVF, we are still looking for similar numbers. Generally speaking, a higher AMH may indicate an improved response to ovarian stimulation with medication and potentially higher amounts of eggs upon retrieval. However, when AMH is above 3.5 there is also a risk of over-response to treatment, which can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
» Check out these ways to improve your chances of pregnancy
AMH Levels By Age
AMH levels increase as we age and are believed to peak at age 25, then naturally decline as we age before being non-detectable once we reach menopause. This decrease in AMH is a normal part of the aging process and part of the biology of being female.
I see a wide range of AMH levels in my practice and the general rule of thumb we follow is 1-4. However, it can be normal to see numbers lower in that range the older we get.
These are estimates of what AMH levels might be by age, though they could be higher or lower:
25 years old: 3.0 ng/mL30 years old: 2.5 ng/mL35 years old: 1.5 ng/ mL40 years old: 1 ng/mL45 years old: 0.5 ng/mL
How to Increase AMH Levels
We know AMH levels are based on our genetics and the natural aging process in some part, but there is a lot we can do to increase our AMH levels and support egg quality overall.
In my work, I look at the holistic picture of a woman and her partner, which includes:
DietLifestyleMindset Emotional supportHerbs and supplements in their regimens
Addressing known factors that affect our AMH, like maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and getting adequate vitamin D, can all help in addition to general hormone-supportive interventions such as a healthy and balanced diet, decreased stress, good sleep, and gut and liver support.
» What to improve your diet? Try these nutrition tips to help when trying to conceive
Track Your Fertility Journey With Ease
AMH is just another piece of information in the larger support of a fertility journey. I hold it with a grain of salt and focus on strategies that are known to support fertility and overall hormonal health. Remember, a low or a high AMH level does not necessarily say anything about your egg quality or ability to get pregnant.
Fertility charting is a big part of the picture when looking to conceive and understand your fertility. It allows you to see cycle to cycle what is shifting within your hormones and fertility as a whole. Tempdrop can be a huge support in cycle charting, as it can aid in seeing if you have an adequate luteal phase and if you are ovulating.
FertilityLuteal Phase Spotting or Implantation Bleeding: What's Going On?Many people tracking their cycles, especially those who desire to become pregnant, may have googled or heard about implantation bleeding or spotting. But is this a real thing, and how do you know if you're experiencing that or something else like luteal phase spotting?
Let's dive in!
Luteal Phase Spotting vs. Implantation Bleeding
Let's talk about what the luteal phase is.
The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is one of the four phases of the menstrual cycle, which occurs after ovulation in response to rising progesterone levels. Our period typically starts 10-16 days after ovulation, and this entire time, from ovulation until the first day of your period (the first day of red, flowing blood, not spotting!), is known as your luteal phase.
While implantation bleeding may be a cause of bleeding in the luteal phase, there is actually some debate around this, and it is definitely not the only or even the main cause of bleeding in the luteal phase.
Luteal Phase Spotting
One of the most common causes of spotting before a period is luteal phase bleeding/spotting. Remember, the luteal phase occurs after ovulation and continues until the start of your next period.
So, how long is the luteal phase?
The luteal phase typically lasts 10-16 days. However, just like each menstrual cycle is different, there can also be variations in the length of the luteal phase. To calculate the length of the luteal phase, most women typically count the number of days of elevated temperatures after ovulation until the first day of red, flowing blood.
Can you get pregnant during the luteal phase?
After ovulation, the empty follicle that released the egg transforms into a temporary endocrine gland known as the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum then produces progesterone, the hormone that makes the uterine lining ready for a potential embryo (fertilized egg) to implant. During this time in your cycle, you are not fertile and can not get pregnant.
However, we can only confirm when or if we ovulate by tracking our cervical fluid and basal body temperatures or by having an ultrasound. Depending on which fertility awareness method we use and those specific rules, we typically have to wait 3-4 days after we've ovulated to confirm ovulation. If you had sex before ovulation and that egg was fertilized, then the embryo does implant during the luteal phase.
In some cases, progesterone levels drop prematurely, and your uterine lining starts shedding, which may cause spotting a few days before your period. While bleeding can occur as a sign of potential ovulation, please note that bleeding in the luteal phase is not a guarantee of implantation or pregnancy, and you should always check with your medical provider if you think you might be pregnant and you are seeing spotting to ensure something more important may not be going on.
What Is Implantation Bleeding?
Implantation bleeding or implantation discharge is when a small amount of spotting or bleeding occurs ~6 to 14 days after fertilization, which is sometimes also around the time of a missed period.
The implantation bleeding generally lasts just one day and is only a small amount of spotting that may be dark or bright red in color. It also does not typically involve clots or odd colors. It is believed to be related to the fertilized egg attaching itself to/in the uterine lining and is believed to be a normal sign of pregnancy though there is some debate about whether implantation bleeding is to be expected or even related to implantation at all.
So, does implantation bleeding mean you’re pregnant?
Not necessarily! Keep in mind that there can be many causes of bleeding or spotting in the luteal phase. So, you always want to make sure to check in with a medical provider for further workup.
You could possibly have implantation bleeding if you also experience other symptoms of early pregnancy, for example:
sore breastsmood swingspeeing more than usualupset stomachmorning sicknessfatiguedizziness and/or fainting
If you have questions or concerns about a potential pregnancy, including questions about implantation bleeding, please always contact your medical team for advice.
Learning More Is Key
Tracking your fertility and your cycle phases can help increase your chances of getting pregnant, and it can also help you to see the patterns of your cycle and identify any potential needs for support based on your unique cycle. I personally love using Tempdrop for myself and my clients because:
It helps to clearly identify the luteal phase with basal body temperature shifts.It can be used in addition to tracking your cervical fluid to know when and if you are ovulating.It helps give us vital information about the health of our luteal phases so we can see if you are likely producing enough progesterone for a healthy pregnancy or if it would benefit you to have some additional support or medical workup.
FertilityPrepping for Pregnancy After 35: 8 Expert Tips for a Smooth JourneyIn media, you often see things that may concern or frighten you if you're trying to conceive after 35. While I'm not a big fan of scare tactics, you should be aware of some factors if you're on this road.
Egg quality starts to decrease by the age of 35.You have a higher chance of developing other health concerns like gestational diabetes.You may enter perimenopause, which causes a short or irregular pre-ovulatory phase.Some healthcare providers may increase your pregnancy risk score once you turn 35.
Once you understand these different factors, you can dedicate some effort to preparing for your pregnancy to give yourself the best chance for a successful, healthy pregnancy.
8 Expert Tips for Planning Pregnancy After 35
1. Preconception health assessment2. Optimal nutrition and lifestyle3. Tracking your menstrual cycle4. Fertility preservation options5. Emotional well-being and support6. Genetic counseling and screening7. Comprehensive prenatal care8. Financial planning
1. Preconception Health Assessment
One of the most common questions among older women looking to conceive is: how old is too old to have a baby? Until you're menopausal, you're not necessarily too old. The practical side of the question is more individual. You may feel you're past the point of parenthood because of financial, social, or other aspects of your life.
Consult your physician and talk about your specific situation. He'll do a comprehensive health evaluation using your medical history and possibly genetic testing. A professional healthcare examination can help you address any concerns early and directly to have the best chances for a healthy pregnancy.
How to prepare for pregnancy after 35I always recommend the book It Starts with the egg for people experiencing infertility. It has recommendations on optimizing the egg and sperm quality for conception.
» Learn more about how your menstrual cycle changes over time
2. Optimal Nutrition and Lifestyle
As you get older, start taking a preconception vitamin and exercise regularly. The supplement can be the same as the one you intend to take when pregnant. As the bare minimum, it should include folate, iron, vitamin A, and zinc.
How to boost fertility in your 30sInclude more fish low in mercury in your diet. Eat more whole foods, eggs, and healthy starches. Start exercising regularly. The workout can be as simple as a 30-45 minute walk four to five times weekly.
3. Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle
The transition to menopause (Perimenopause) can cause a variable cycle. It can make it difficult for you to conceive, as your body naturally ends its reproductive years.
Cycle tracking can be invaluable for conception if you're older than 35. Tempdrop can help you track your symptoms, verify ovulation, and learn about your menstrual phases. Cycle biomarkers in fertility awareness charting can also give you a better chance at conceiving since some signs indicate impending ovulation, and others confirm ovulation.
» Read Tempdrop's fertility tracker review by Dr. Mona Wiggins
4. Fertility Preservation Options
If you're in your 30s or 40s and want a baby but aren't quite ready yet, you may want to look into fertility preservation options.
The process involves a fertility specialist who freezes your egg or embryo. The procedure can also be helpful if you're undergoing medical treatments that may affect fertility or are likely to contract certain diseases or disorders.
If you're interested in fertility preservation procedures, you should consult a specialist first.
5. Emotional Well-Being and Support
Trying to get pregnant can cause a lot of stress, and researching the topic online can only make matters worse in some cases. I recommend focusing on what you know rather than what could be.
You can also try meditation, talk therapy, and prenatal massage. Remember that emotional health is essential throughout preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum.
6. Genetic Counseling and Screening
One of the biggest concerns of advanced maternal age is genetic deviance—and many women choose to go through genetic counseling and screening before pregnancy. The evaluation helps you determine your specific risks so you can minimize them.
Many providers have begun asking about these as non-invasive testing techniques have evolved, but you can always ask your provider if they don't bring it up.
7. Comprehensive Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is the most crucial factor in decreasing risk factors throughout pregnancy. It includes regular check-ups, bloodwork, screening, and advanced testing. I often tell my clients that the right healthcare provider is the one you trust to care for you and your baby.
8. Financial Planning
There are some potentially added costs with pregnancy as you age, so budgeting and saving are very beneficial when planning for a pregnancy—though that's true of pregnancy at any age.
Some expenses to consider are:
Pre- and postnatal careChildbirthChildcareMedical expenses
Embarking on Your Pregnancy Journey After 35
There are a lot of things that you can do to help you have a successful pregnancy journey after the age of 35. Focus on nutrition, lifestyle, preconception, and prenatal care to have the best experience possible. By planning and incorporating these changes sooner, you can have a smoother journey.
Fertility10 Fertility Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from MythYou may have heard some myths about getting pregnant, such as how certain foods can impact your chances of conception, but some hold little to no proof, whereas others have some merit.
To help you navigate some of the most common fertility myths, we spoke to holistic fertility and hormone coach and pre- and post-natal coach, Lisa Cartier, for her insights on the matter.
1. Caffeine and Pregnancy
The acceptable caffeine amount is 400 mg a day, and that includes foods that contains any. But with pregnancy, it takes the body longer to metabolize caffeine. So if you're consuming the same amount of caffeine during pregnancy, it means that it's staying longer in your body and can be passed through your placenta to your baby.
"I don't generally tell people to avoid caffeine because sometimes that in itself is very hard and challenging. And if they switch over to decaffeinated, they should consider how it's being decaffeinated. If it's chemically decaffeinated, that's even more detrimental to your body and the baby's body than having the regular caffeine," explains Cartier.
Tip: When you're pregnant, especially in the early stages, pay attention to how much caffeine you're consuming. If you need to have it, have a cup or half a cup in the morning or at any time during the day, but avoid overconsumption.
2. Papayas and Miscarriages
There has been speculation regarding the potential of unripe papaya to cause miscarriages. However, the scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. That being said, unripe papayas contain latex, which potentially could be harmful.
A study conducted on pregnant rats demonstrated that consuming unripe papaya led to early contractions. Therefore, the effects may vary from person to person.
3. Pineapples and Fertility
On the nutritional side, pineapple has been associated with fertility due to its content of bromelains, a group of enzymes. These bromelains are believed to have properties that can boost fertility, such as reducing inflammation and aiding in blood thinning, which can be beneficial for individuals with clotting issues.
The highest concentration of bromelains is found in the core of the fruit, making it the preferred part to consume compared to the whole pineapple.
"Consuming pineapple before and after implantation is said to be beneficial for the process of healthy implantation, as it helps with inflammation, which is crucial for conceiving."
If consuming pineapple makes you feel good and you believe it helps, it may be worth trying. However, it's also important to assess the overall inflammation in your body before consumption as it can impact fertility.
» Want to know more? Find out the best foods to boost libido during ovulation
4. Irregular Cycles and Infertility
Usually, irregular cycles occur when you're ovulating late, or in some cases you may not be ovulating at all. Does this mean you're infertile even when you do have a period? This depends. To have a true period you need to ovulate. Ovulation is when you release an egg. Estrogen signals the body to release the egg, after the egg is released Progesterone rises. If the egg isn't fertilized, progesterone production stops and the uterine lining is shed, causing you to have your period.
However, if you're not ovulating (not releasing an egg) then you are not fertile. But just because you are ovulating less regularly, does not mean that you are infertile.
Tip: Tracking your full cycle and paying attention to signs like LH surges, cervical mucus and BBT changes can help determine the times when you are and aren't fertile.
5. Morning Sex for Pregnancy
If the male has had a good night's sleep, then his sperm is typically more fertile because, while sleeping, the body regenerates the sperm from that day. So if they aren't getting adequate sleep, then morning time isn't going to matter because the sperm isn't able to regenerate in a healthy way.
However, with solid sleep, in the morning, he's ready to go since, in the daytime, there could be things that influence sperm quality. Some examples include:
If he's been in a hot tubIf he's been bike riding
The heat that his body has been through will compromise, to a degree, what is happening with the sperm.
Can Certain Sex Positions Increase Chances of Conception?The position during intercourse does not determine the likelihood of conception, and it varies from person to person. The key is to prioritize the comfort, health, and well-being of both partners. A relaxed state of mind plays a significant role in the process. Engaging in activities that do not feel good can create obstacles. Deep penetration is essential regardless of the circumstances since it helps bring the sperm closer to the cervix, which is the ultimate goal.
6. Sex Every Day Boosts Chances of Conception
The timing of intercourse has more to do with your 'fertility window' than anything. Obviously, if you're having sex more times during that fertility window, you have more of a chance of conceiving.
"You don't want to get to the point where you're extremely fatigued and tired. But I would say intercourse more than once during your fertility window would probably be the most helpful. Do you have to have it every day? No. If you have it every day, is that going to be bad? It really depends on you."
Tip: If possible, take at least three months to a year prior to when you actively want to conceive and really look at your (and your partner's) overall health, including lifestyle choices, gut health, blood sugar, and stress levels. Work with those factors so that when you do decide to conceive, you have a really good conception plan.
» Check out this guide to when you are most fertile
7. Size Matters When Trying To Get Pregnant
The biggest thing is the sperm getting to the cervix, not the penis size. Putting definitive ideas that size impacts conception chances or sperm validity can add so much more stress to the whole situation when it's so unnecessary.
Cartier adds, "If the sperm can do its job, size doesn't matter."
8. You Can Plan Baby's Gender
"Based on my experience with clients, I suggest tracking your ovulation and paying attention to your fertility window. This is because your vaginal pH changes during ovulation, which some believe can influence the gender of the baby."
To conceive a female: "I suggest you have sex further out from ovulation," says Cartier. This way, the sperm remains in an environment with a different pH level. When ovulation occurs, the pH level doesn't change, potentially increasing the chances of conceiving a girl. Note: Sperm can live for five to six daysTo conceive a male: Having sex closer to ovulation, at the end of the fertile window, may increase the likelihood of conceiving a male baby since the conditions closer to ovulation may be more favorable for Y-bearing sperm.
There isn't a guaranteed 100% success rate with this method and it's not scientifically proven, but it's the only suggestion Cartier found to hold any value based on her experiences.
» Discover more about fertility charting
9. Arousal Fluid Helps Conception
Arousal fluid is a clear discharge that can occur throughout your cycle but typically secretes when sexually stimulated or while having sex. This fluid can help with conception as it creates a more suitable environment for sperm, which can potentially boost the chances of conception.
However, cervical mucus is more essential for conception. Factors such as healthy nutrition and weight, as well as reduced stress, can help stimulate better cervical mucus and arousal fluid production.
10. Egg-Freezing Guarantees Conception
Some common myths surrounding this are that if you freeze your eggs, you're guaranteed to have a baby. However, since many women respond to the egg retrieval process differently and egg quality and quantity can differ, there is no definitive assurance that you'll be able to have a child.
Moreover, some may fear there are fewer eggs for later if you freeze them sooner. AMH testing helps rule out any uncertainty for women hoping to use their eggs at a later stage. However, you can improve your AMH levels through factors like a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and more.
Debunk The Myths and Track Your Fertility
Instead of looking at misinformation, focus on things that are supported and work with someone who has a good foundation for explaining what is happening in your body. "I don't recommend doing it on your own because everyone is different. Each situation is unique and requires personalized attention," says Cartier.
Tracking is incredibly important as it allows you to understand when things are changing and when they are not. With Tempdrop, this can be easy, too. Tempdrop's fertility tracker uses your basal body temperature (BBT) alongside other key fertility indicators to monitor your cycle and identify your fertile window and to confirm ovulation.
FertilityOvarian Cyst vs Fibroid: Understanding the Impact on FertilityFor many women, the journey to understanding their reproductive health is filled with terms and conditions that can often seem confusing and overwhelming. Among these, ovarian cysts and fibroids stand out as two prevalent conditions that can potentially impact fertility.
Approximately 7% of women worldwide develop ovarian cysts during their lifetime, while up to 70% develop fibroids, but only 25% experience symptoms during their reproductive years.
We had the privilege of discussing women's health and wellness with Lisa Cartier, a knowledgeable professional in this field. As we navigate through this topic, we aim to provide clarity and empower women with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Fibroids vs Ovarian Cysts: Impact on Reproductive Health
Uterine fibroids are influenced by estrogen levels in the body. Their growth is often attributed to the estrogen present, making it essential to monitor and understand any estrogen imbalances, such as estrogen dominance.
On the other hand, ovarian cysts develop due to incomplete ovulation triggers, resulting in the formation of cysts on the ovary that might grow, be released, or remain static.
Can You Get Fibroids on Your Ovary?Although fibroids are commonly associated with the uterus, they can also develop on the ovaries. Ovarian fibroids may cause the ovary to twist or lead to hemorrhaging, but often remain asymptomatic and go unnoticed for extended periods of time.The primary concern with ovarian fibroids is their potential to be malignant. While most are benign, they have a higher likelihood of being cancerous compared to uterine fibroids.
Possible causes for fertility issues:
Large Fibroids: Can hinder conception and increase the risk of miscarriage due to their sizeEstrogen Levels: High levels can be problematic for fertilityOvarian Cysts: Their complexity can make them harder to diagnose and treatPCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome): Requires significant effort to manage, especially in stabilizing blood sugar levelsConsistency: Occasional fibroids might not be as problematic as consistent ovarian cysts for fertility
Understanding the Impact of Cysts on Menstruation
Although ovarian cysts typically do not affect the ovary's function or menstrual cycle, the impact on menstruation can vary based on the underlying cause of the cyst.
Some women may experience a single cyst rupture, while others may have recurring issues due to conditions such as PCOS, a metabolic disorder that can cause irregular menstrual cycles or even prolonged periods without menstruation.
The absence of ovulation can disrupt the menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health.
» Find out more about surprising causes of irregular periods
The Importance of Family History and Hormonal Birth Control
Family history is essential when factoring in aspects like:
Gut healthLiver detoxification processesBlood sugar levels Overall lifestyle choicesNutrition
The prolonged effects of hormonal birth control can linger in the body and may even be inherited by subsequent generations, which could negatively impact one's reproductive health. The use of hormonal birth control, while beneficial for some, can lead to complications.
"Its suppressive effect on the reproductive system doesn't address the root causes of health issues and can disrupt the natural progression of hormone regulation."
Ways to Optimize Fertility Health
For those dealing with ovarian and fibroid cysts, understanding the interconnectedness of various health aspects is helpful. The process of getting rid of ovarian cysts and fibroids can be overwhelming, but we are here to help with some essential steps and practices.
Track Your Cycle: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle offers vital information. Recognizing changes and patterns allows you to address issues and maintain a connection with your body.Self-awareness is Key: Stay alert to any shifts in your life, enabling you to take proactive measures during challenging times.Understand Your Genetic Predisposition: Tailor your nutrition and lifestyle choices based on your genetics to optimize your health.Regular Screenings and Check-ups: Pairing these with personal cycle tracking offers a holistic view of your hormonal health.Value of Early Detection: Prioritizing early detection can pave the way for more effective management and potentially less invasive treatments.Pain Management: While prioritizing comfort is essential, consider natural remedies that support your body without compromising gut health, given that all medications have side effects.Prioritize Gut Health: Emphasize a diet abundant in fiber, probiotics, and nutritious foods to bolster gut health.Blood Sugar Balance: Rather than a singular check, consistently monitor your blood sugar levels to gain a comprehensive understanding of its fluctuations.Sleep and Restoration: Evaluate your sleep habits and make adjustments as needed to ensure restful sleep.
» Struggling with PCOS and food? Learn more about what to avoid and what to enjoy
Taking Charge of Your Hormonal Health
The complexities of reproductive health, particularly concerning ovarian cysts and fibroids, play a pivotal role in a woman's fertility and overall well-being. With a significant percentage of women experiencing these conditions, it's crucial to understand their origins, impacts, and potential treatments.
In this journey, Tempdrop emerges as a valuable tool to empower women with insights about their fertility. Here's why Tempdrop stands out:
Comprehensive Monitoring: It continuously measures your core temperature while you sleep to detect ovulation and you can keep track of changes in your cycle such as heavy bleeding or pain.Personalized Insights: Its patented algorithm filters out disturbances to provide accurate results based on your unique temperature patterns.Holistic Approach: By combining temperature readings with other fertility symptoms, it aids in pinpointing your fertility window with precision.
By incorporating Tempdrop into your routine, you're not just staying informed but also taking a proactive approach to prioritize your well-being and regular health check-ups.