Note: this article applies to Cyclers using the app with a basal thermometer. If you use an Oura Ring, please refer to the Oura section of Cyclerpedia.
The basal body temperature (BBT) varies from person to person and also depends on where you measure it.
You can measure your basal body temperature orally, vaginally, or rectally.
Measuring the temperature vaginally or rectally will generally lead to higher temperatures than measuring orally. For that reason, it is important that you always measure in the same way.
If you would like to change your way of measuring, you should always do so at the start of a new cycle. It can then take around 1-3 cycles for the algorithm to adjust to your new way of measuring, and during this time you can expect to be given a bit more red days (for NC° Birth Control) or brown days (for NC° Plan Pregnancy).
Note: If you are struggling with your measuring routine, know that you now have the option to use Natural Cycles with an Oura Ring. When wearing an Oura Ring, your temperature trends get measured overnight while you sleep. This means that you no longer need to measure with your oral thermometer as soon as you wake up! Learn more here.
You can also refer to the Instructions for Use for any questions you have about using this thermometer.