French Researchers Explore Why Women’s Body Temperature Fluctuates More Than Men’s
18:35 27 October, 2026Women generally mount stronger immune responses to infections and vaccinations, but they are also significantly more likely than men to develop autoimmune diseases. For example, systemic lupus erythematosus is 8.8 times more common in women, while rheumatoid arthritis is 2.1 times more common. This was reported by Naked Science, citing research conducted by an international team of immunologists led by Elizabeth Maloney of the Institut Pasteur in Paris.
In addition to genetic factors associated with having two X chromosomes, the researchers link this issue to natural fluctuations in body temperature. After ovulation, body temperature rises by 0.3–0.7 degrees Celsius, while perimenopause and menopause can bring hot flashes.
The researchers hypothesize that temperature instability affects biochemical processes within cells and alters immune responses. These fluctuations may cause T cells to continually adjust their activity levels, potentially affecting immune system function over time and contributing to dysfunction.
However, this remains a hypothesis. At present, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that natural fluctuations in body temperature increase the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Ainura Mamedova, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Invitro, previously noted that chronic stress and sleep disturbances can indeed affect the menstrual cycle and women’s well-being. However, this does not mean they directly “deplete egg cells” or constitute an independently established cause of early menopause.