Basal thermometer

Basal Thermometer

A basal thermometer is a type of thermometer specifically designed to measure basal body temperature. Basal body temperature refers to the body's temperature at rest, and it is often used in fertility awareness methods to predict ovulation.

Overview

Basal thermometers are more sensitive than regular thermometers and can detect minor changes in body temperature. They are typically accurate to 0.1 degrees Fahrenheit or 0.01 degrees Celsius. This level of precision is necessary because the increase in basal body temperature during ovulation is often less than 1 degree Fahrenheit or 0.6 degrees Celsius.

Use in Fertility Awareness

In fertility awareness methods, a woman measures her basal body temperature every morning before getting out of bed. This data is then charted over time to identify patterns and predict ovulation. A sustained rise in basal body temperature is often an indication that ovulation has occurred.

Types of Basal Thermometers

There are several types of basal thermometers available, including digital and mercury thermometers. Digital thermometers are the most commonly used due to their ease of use and accuracy. Some digital basal thermometers also have additional features such as memory recall and ovulation prediction.

Limitations

While basal thermometers can be a useful tool in fertility awareness methods, they are not 100% accurate in predicting ovulation. Other factors such as illness, lack of sleep, and alcohol consumption can also affect basal body temperature.

See Also

• Fertility awareness
• Ovulation prediction kit
• Digital thermometer