Early Pregnancy Symptoms & Negative Test: What Could It Mean?

Question
Hi,
I o'ed on cd 17 and have had cramps which remind me of my period cramps for a wk now. I thought I had spotting on dpo 6.  My temp dropped since yest (when I was expecting my period) but still AF has not shown its ugly face.  Yest. I temped an hour earlier but today I temped at normal time (all though it was cold in the room).  I had less cramps today, a big headache and some nausea.  I tested on dpo 10 and was bfn.  Could I still have a chance of being pregnant even with the temp drops?
Thanks,
Jenna

My chart: http://www.fertilityfriend.com/ttc/index.php
In case you can't see chart my cover line is 97.3 first temp drop yest was 97.2 today 96.8

Answer
Hello Jenna from the U.S. (New Jersey),

The BBT is a tool and not helpful for anything other than the possibility of ovulation (it is not a definitive test for ovulation either).  So, the basic answer is that no conclusions can be made based on the temperature change.  In general, when monitoring a BBT, it is a reflection of the thermal effects from the progesterone rise in the luteal phase.  It will usually drop when the progesterone level drops which is usually just before the menses.

Good Luck,

Dr. Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.

for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf.  Skype and internet comprehensive consultations now available via my website for those who want a more extensive evaluation that this site can accommodate