What happens to the basal body temperature just before ovulation?

Just before ovulation, there is a significant change in the hormonal balance, particularly an increase in estrogen levels that leads to physiological changes in the body. As ovulation approaches, the basal body temperature (BBT) experiences a slight dip, but this is often followed by a rise in temperature due to the surge in progesterone following ovulation.

The reason that the temperature rises after ovulation is linked to progesterone's thermogenic effect, which elevates the body's resting temperature. This rise is usually a few tenths of a degree Fahrenheit and persists until the onset of menstruation if pregnancy does not occur. Tracking this temperature change can serve as an indicator of ovulation for those trying to conceive or practice natural family planning.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the physiological changes that occur as the body prepares for ovulation, indicating a rise in temperature in the luteal phase post-ovulation.