Basal Temperature Testing

Can Basal Temperature Testing Diagnose
Low Thyroid Function?

One simple assessment of thyroid health is done via basal temperature testing.

Your basal temperature reflects your metabolic rate, which is largely determined by the activity of your thyroid gland.

A basal body temperature test can be done at home, making this an easy way to assess current thyroid function.

Low temperature readings can indicate sluggish metabolism, which are often a direct result of low thyroid function.

All that is required is a good quality thermometer.

Procedure For Basal Temperature Testing

Place a digital thermometer by your bed before going to sleep at night

1. On waking, place the thermometer in your mouth. It is important to make as little movement as possible. Lying and resting with your eyes closed is best. Do not get up until you have completed the test.
   

2. Read and record the temperature and date.
   

3. Perform this test on at least three mornings, preferably at the same time of day. Menstruating women must perform this test away from time of ovulation. Your body temperature naturally rises at this time. If you are not sure when you are ovulating take the test on the second, third, fourth and fifth days of menstruation.

   Men and postmenopausal women can perform the test at any time.

Your basal body temperature should be between 97.6 - 98.2 Fahrenheit or 36 - 37 Celsius (36.5 Celsius is ideal).

Basal temperature testing should never be used alone to diagnose a thyroid condition. The temperature readings are simply good indicators that are considered along with other signs & symptoms of low thyroid function.

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