What makes a basal thermometer different

However, if you want to use the basal body temperature along with another fertility awareness-based method for birth control, consult your health care provider first if:. Take your basal body temperature every morning before getting out of bed.

Use a digital oral thermometer or one specifically designed to measure basal body temperature. Make sure you get at least three hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to ensure an accurate reading. For the most accurate results, always take your temperature using the same method.

Try to take your temperature at the same time each day, when you first wake up. Track your temperature readings. Record your daily basal body temperature and look for a pattern to emerge. You can do this on a paper chart or an app designed for this purpose.

Ovulation has likely occurred when the slightly higher temperature remains steady for three days or more. Plan sex carefully during fertile days. You're most fertile about two days before your basal body temperature rises, but sperm can live up to five days in your reproductive tract. If you're hoping to get pregnant, this is the time to have sex. If you're hoping to avoid pregnancy, unprotected sex is off-limits from the start of your menstrual period until three to four days after your basal body temperature rises — every month.

Although there are numerous apps available for tracking menstrual cycles, only one is approved by the U. Natural Cycles uses an algorithm to calculate the days during your cycle when you're more likely to be fertile. The app calculates your fertile days based on daily temperature readings as well as other information you input about your menstrual cycle.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Sections for Basal body temperature for natural family planning About. Overview The basal body temperature method — a fertility awareness-based method — is a type of natural family planning. Learn more about vaccine availability. Advertising Policy.

You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Related Articles. Why Is My Period Late? Trending Topics. Joseph Hill. Next on Your Reading List. Ovulation Symptoms: 9 Signs of Ovulation. Sex Ed for Baby Making. How Long Are Eggs Viable? What Is the Shettles Method? Article saved.