What happens to body temperature just prior to ovulation?

Prior to ovulation, the body's temperature typically experiences a slight decrease. This drop in temperature is associated with the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, specifically the rise in estrogen levels leading up to ovulation. Once ovulation occurs, there is a significant increase in the hormone progesterone, which subsequently raises the basal body temperature. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the physiological response that is seen just before ovulation, where the body temperature not only doesn't stabilize or remain high but actually dips slightly as the body prepares for the ovulatory phase. This understanding is crucial for tracking ovulation and fertility awareness effectively.