[brandimomof2]

So I guess its time for me to start charting. I really dont enjoy this so was hoping I would get PG before it came to this. So can you guys give me any tips? I have an account with fertility friend. Is it ok to take my temp under my arm? Can it be digital?

THanks

[Kary♥RN]

Under the arm is not the best way... but I did find one article that said you could do it.. but what ever method you choose you have to stick with it.. Vaginal is the most accurate, followed my oral.. (I do Oral).. and yes I use a digital BBT... I hope this is your cycle.. and you get a BFP!!!

[*MomofO&Nat*]

I just started this cycle, using a digital basal thermometer. I take my temp whenever I wake up each morning, which is usually around 6am due to my son waking up. I keep the thermometer, a notepad and a flashlight next to my bed to record the temps, since you are supposed to take your temp before moving or getting out of bed for increased accuracy. I chart it on FF, which has helped so far in understanding my cycle a bit. Hope it helps you!

[Kary♥RN]

I never temp at the same time... I work night shift.. so when I have to do back to backs.. my temp isn't taken until till I get up around 1-2pm... when I am off... any were between 10-12.. but it is always after 4 consective hours of sleep. My temps always show a thermal shift indicating Ovulation. (yes while it is ideal to temp everyday same time.) It is unrealestic for my sleep patteren... (or lack of).. I do also keep it next me in bed.. my thermomerter has recall so I just temp.. and can go back to see what it is if I decide to go back to sleep.

[~InHisHands~]

I temp orally with a digital BBT. I will say that the best book in the world that you should read on the subject is Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler.

[lex1078]

I'm no help with this stuff. I used to temp, but have stopped. Considering starting again soon.

I do want to wish you good luck though!

[brandimomof2]

Thanks ladies. Does it have to say Basal Body on it? I have a digital but not sure its basal body. Does it matter? If so where can you find this kind at?

Thanks

[zkat]

Brandi - it does need to be a Basal Body Temp thermometer - they are calibrated to read lower than 98 degrees, while most fever thermometers are not. I have a $10 digital one from wal-greens that has memory recall. The memory recall is a must have for me, I can take my temp at 5 am before I take my thyroid meds and not have to turn on a light to wake up dh.

[brandimomof2]

Oh one question, How does charting help you if you can not tell the day you ovulate till after you ovulate? Is there suppose to be a regular pattern of when one ovulates or can it be different every month?

[brandimomof2]

Originally Posted by zkat

Brandi - it does need to be a Basal Body Temp thermometer - they are calibrated to read lower than 98 degrees, while most fever thermometers are not. I have a $10 digital one from wal-greens that has memory recall. The memory recall is a must have for me, I can take my temp at 5 am before I take my thyroid meds and not have to turn on a light to wake up dh.

Thank you. I will send DH out for one right away. I am already on CD 3 so guess I should get started.

[brandimomof2]

Well Walgreens does not carry a BBT where I live. I guess I will have to use my digital fever theromometer for now. I guess I could try to order one online or something.

[~InHisHands~]

You can also try Wal-Mart or Target or somewhere. You can try a regular thermometer but I don't think it will work. I know I tried it way back when before I started with my BBT & it didn't work for me... just confused the heck out of me. BBTs are extremely sensitive & that's what you need b/c you are looking for a very minute change in temperature... I think 2 degree change, if I'm not mistaken but I could be wrong on that. Whatever it is I know it's small. If you can't find one locally you can order it online. Actually I have ordered online here so I know they are reliable if you want to check them out... Basal Thermometer - Digital. I don't have THAT particular BBT but I'm sure it is just fine!

Yes you do tend to get into a pattern so you can kinda predict when you will O each month. Another benefit is really just learning your body. You start to really learn when you are fertile so that you can read all the signs correctly the better you get at it & the more you do it. You can also keep up with when you DTD as compared to your temps & that will confirm whether or not your timing was good that cycle.

Oh I also wanted to add you should take your BBT first thing in the morning upon waking up & after I believe at least 3 hours of sleep & before doing literally ANYTHING, including running to the bathroom to pee.

[brandimomof2]

Thanks. I will order one online. So not sure I can really chart this month until I get the right kind. I did it thismorning with a digi reg one so maybe I will just keep doing that until I get the right kind. Thanks