Continuous Temperature Monitor Detects Ovulation Pattern

An axillary temperature monitoring patch and a complementary processing unit measures female body basal temperature variations, extrapolating the best days for conception.

The DuoFertility system is based on a sophisticated version of the measurement method, detecting a small upward shift in BBT associated with ovulation, thus identifying the best time to plan intercourse, up to six days in advance. In addition, personal fertility related data provided by the user, such as menstruation dates, cervical mucus, and ovulation pain can also be added to the fertility analysis to provide the most accurate predictions possible. The system consists of a body-worn sensor--roughly the size of a small button--placed under the arm with a specially designed adhesive or armband; a handheld reader; and proprietary software.

The DuoFertility sensor automatically makes up to 20,000 measurements every single day. The data is then transferred the DuoFertility reader, which stores it and calculates fertility. The reader is then connected to a computer, with detailed fertility information displayed by the software, which is then securely transferred to the company's fertility center over the internet. Fertility specialists conduct an in-depth analysis of the data to process and send back accurate predictions automatically transferred back to the DuoFertility reader. The system is a product of Cambridge Temperature Concepts (United Kingdom), and has received the European Community (EC) marking of approval.

BBT is the lowest temperature attained by the body during rest (usually during sleep). It is generally measured immediately after awakening and before any physical activity has been undertaken, although the temperature measured at that time is somewhat higher than the true BBT. In women, ovulation causes an increase of one-quarter to one-half degree Celsius in BBT; the tendency of a woman to have lower temperatures before ovulation and higher temperatures afterwards, is known as a biphasic pattern. Charting of this pattern may be used as a component of fertility awareness.

Related Links:
Cambridge Temperature Concepts