BBT method with PCOS – track your ovulation

Many women with PCOS experience that their cycle is irregular or sometimes absent for longer periods. This makes it difficult to know when ovulation occurs – and therefore when the chance of pregnancy is highest. The Basal Body Temperature (BBT) method can be a helpful tool because it allows you to confirm if and when ovulation has actually taken place.

What is the BBT method?

The BBT method is based on measuring your basal body temperature. After ovulation, your temperature rises slightly – typically by 0.2 to 0.5 degrees – and remains at this level until your next period. This gives you a natural marker that ovulation has happened.

With PCOS, LH levels (luteinizing hormone) can remain elevated throughout the cycle, which is why ovulation tests alone may sometimes give misleading results. By combining BBT tracking with ovulation tests, you can get a more accurate picture of when ovulation actually occurs.

Read also:PCOS – what are the symptoms and what can you do?

How to use the BBT method

Step 1: Measure daily

Measure your temperature every morning before getting out of bed. Use a basal thermometer specifically designed for BBT tracking for the most accurate results.

Step 2: Record your readings

Record your readings in an app or on paper so you can follow the pattern.

Step 3: Look for a temperature shift

A sustained temperature rise for at least 3 days usually indicates that ovulation has occurred.

Step 4: Track cervical mucus too

If you also pay attention to changes in cervical mucus, you gain an additional sign of when your body is in its most fertile phase.

The Sympto-Thermal method with PCOS

The Sympto-Thermal method combines BBT tracking with observing cervical mucus. While BBT alone can confirm that ovulation has already happened, mucus changes can signal when your body is approaching ovulation.

With PCOS, this combination can be particularly valuable. Many women find it easier to identify patterns and plan intercourse on the most fertile days when both signs are tracked together.

The BBT method and the wish for pregnancy

For women with PCOS, it’s not only about knowing whether ovulation occurs, but also when. Some manage to achieve pregnancy once they learn their cycle patterns and time intercourse to the most fertile days.

You can also combine the method with ovulation tests that measure LH surges – but keep in mind that with PCOS there is a risk of false positives.

You can find both together in our PCOS cycle tracking kit, where BBT tracking and ovulation tests complement each other.

Lifestyle and cycle support with PCOS

In addition to cycle tracking, many women choose to support their body through lifestyle and supplements. Inositol, chromium and omega-3 are often used in connection with PCOS, as they contribute to the body’s normal functions.

Read more: PCOS and fertility – supplements that may support your cycle
See our supplements for PCOS here.

Frequently asked questions about the BBT and Sympto-Thermal methods

Can the BBT method be used if I have irregular cycles due to PCOS?

Yes, although it may take longer to identify patterns. A rise in temperature after ovulation is still a reliable indicator.

Is the Sympto-Thermal method better than BBT alone with PCOS?

Many women with PCOS find that combining BBT tracking and cervical mucus observation gives more precise insights into their cycle.

How do I combine BBT tracking with ovulation tests if I have PCOS?

Start with ovulation tests when you expect to be approaching ovulation. Use BBT tracking to confirm that ovulation has actually taken place.

Which products can help me get started?

A basal thermometeris essential. Many women also choose to use ovulation tests and PCOS supplementsto support their cycle.