Suggestions on tracking basal temps...?

Question

We are in month two of TTC and I have decided to start to track my basal temps. This month I was really confused on my ovulation. According to the on line calculators I was supposed to O around the 12th or 13th of this month. This would put me O'ing around CD 18 or 19. However on the 7th (CD 13) I took an OPK and it indicated (what seemed to me to be) an surge. Also around this time I had increased CM and I was feeling pretty "frisky." Since then my CM has started to drop and I was having cramps on the right side yesterday. I also took an OPK on the 11th and it was lighter and then again on the 13th and the line was non-existant. Any ideas on what all this means? Anyone have any suggestions on tracking my temps and using OPK's? I don't think there is really anything I can do this month as whenever it happened my O has come and gone. Looking for suggestions for next month. Also- anyone know how important it is to take your temp at the same time everyday? I work shift work and that is just not possible.

Answer 1

I HIGHLY recommend plugging your bbt temps into fertilityfriend.com . It is a free charting website that all you have to do is plug in the numbers and they calculate everything for you (specifically when you ovulate). I was so confused about charting before I found FF. Try taking at the same time as much as you can, but obviously that is not always possible for you.

I also suggest using + or - opks as I find the two lines to be hard to read....maybe you misread?? I also use the Clear Blue Fertility Monitor which I love. Pricey, but lets you know whether your fertility is at a low, high, or peak level.

I am never accurate with the online calculators as they don't know you. Sounds like you were closer to ovulation around the 11th. Did you have any spikes in your temps? Like I said, I would try plugging in your previous temps to FF and see what they say.

If you have any questions, email me :o) GOOD LUCK!

Answer 2

Did your temps go higher after CD13?  If they did and you had a +OPK along with EWCM I'd say that you ovulated then.  The calculators just use an average so believe your body signs over them.  

Not sure what is best with the BBT and shift work.  Maybe take them each day after you get at least 4 hrs sleep?

Good luck!