Why Use a Menstrual Chart?

A menstrual chart has a number of valuable uses. Most importantly, it will help you recognise the signs associated with your own menstrual cycle. You will see the changes that happen to your body every month. Think of it as a journey of self-discovery and you can learn to prepare, honour and respect these monthly changes.

The chart is also an integral tool for your Naturopathic Case Manager, who can use it to determine the following:

• If you ovulate and, if so, when you ovulate.
• If you suffer from Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and, if so, what type of PMS.
• If you have an infection.
• Whether you have become pregnant.
• If you have miscarried.
• If you have had an ectopic pregnancy.
• If you have a thyroid condition that needs to be addressed.

How to Use the Charts -Divided into three sections:

1. Temperature.
2. Mucus changes.
3. Secondary symptoms.

1. The Temperature chart -Begin on day 1 - the first day of bleeding

Record your daily temperature at rest, this is also known as your basal temperature. The best way to do this is to have a thermometer beside the bed and take your temperature as soon as you wake up. Remember, basal means at rest, so we want a temperature reading before you do anything including going to the toilet, hugging your partner or yelling for the kids to get up!

The temperature reading should be taken at the same time each day.

Record the temperature each day by placing a dot on the chart corresponding to the day and the temperature reading.

We recommend using a red pen for the days you are bleeding and a different colour for the rest of the month. This creates a visual record.

It is also very important to note on the corresponding days of your chart if you have a cold, flu, virus or any type of infection that could raise your body’s temperature.

How will I tell if I’m pregnant?

A rise in temperature that continues for at least 18 days is a likely indicator for pregnancy. If temperature continues to stay high for more than 20 days, pregnancy can be confirmed.

2. Mucus Changes

You probably notice that the amount and texture of mucus from your vagina varies throughout the month. This coincides with the phases of your menstrual cycle and is the best indicator of ovulation. While there are descriptions and codes provided, it's best to choose terms that mean something to you when describing mucus patterns.

Some common descriptions for the colour and texture of mucus include:

You can use the codes provided or create your own code/symbols so that these descriptions fit in the chart. It is also important to note any change in smell or colour e.g. fishy (f), green (gn), grey (gy)

To check your mucus, you need to use your finger and gather a sample from around the opening of the vagina. Do not use toilet paper as it is too absorbent and may result in false information. When you first start mucus charting, it is a good idea to check each time you go to the toilet, as mucus may change throughout the day.

Notice that at the beginning and end of the month (i.e. Just prior to and just after menstruation) the mucus is thick, sticky, white and scant in quantity. As oestrogen rises and ovulation approaches, the mucus becomes clearer, thinner, wetter and increases in quantity. Just prior to ovulation, oestrogen peaks and the mucus becomes like raw egg-white, wet and can be stretched between the fingers. This is FERTILE MUCUS.

Record your findings on the corresponding days in the “Mucus Changes” section of your chart.

3. Secondary Symptoms

Secondary symptoms refer to the changes we personally notice at different times of the month. This can help you to predict things like food cravings, moods, energy levels and bowel habits throughout the month. Recognising your body cycles can be very liberating.

If you are trying to become pregnant, make sure you mark off the days when you have sexual intercourse. Then, you can use this to help work out your due date. Knowing replaces guesswork.

Call Moontides today or simply email us with your query.