How you prepare

Tracking your basal body temperature doesn't require special preparation. However, if you want to use the basal body temperature along with another fertility awareness-based method for birth control, consult your health care provider first if:

• You recently gave birth or stopped taking birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives
• You're breast-feeding
• You're approaching menopause

Keep in mind that your basal body temperature can be influenced by many factors, including:

• Illness or fever
• Stress
• Shift work
• Interrupted sleep cycles or oversleeping
• Alcohol
• Travel and time zone differences
• Gynecologic disorders
• Certain medications