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Fertility Temping Tips

8 Ways to Get the Most Accurate Basal Body Temperature

By Kim Seidel

Recording the basal body temperature (BBT) is a common way to maximize a woman's chances of becoming pregnant. So what's the lowdown on BBT, and how can you use this method to help you conceive?

Basically, your BBT is your temperature right away when you wake up in the morning, says Dr. Stephanie Maves, a family medical practitioner at Franciscan Skemp Healthcare in Onalaska, Wis. You can record your temperature on a monthly chart to determine the days when you're most fertile to conceive. Having this information can give you a better chance for having intercourse at the "right time" of your cycle, she says.

BBT is based on some simple facts. A female's temperature typically runs lower before she ovulates. After she ovulates, it's higher. About two days after ovulation, your temperature increases by .4 degrees, Dr. Maves says. For example, before ovulation, your temperature may run between 97 and 97.5 degrees Fahrenheit. After ovulation, the temperature rises to around 97.6 to 98.6 degrees.

Here are top tips to achieving your most precise BBT reading:

The key to successfully charting your BBT is to take your temperature every morning, at the exact same time, Dr. Maves says. Yes, even on weekends and holidays, record your temperature at the exact same time. Take your temperature at the exact same time each day, before doing anything else, including talking, drinking or eating.

"Record your temperature for the entire time you're trying to achieve pregnancy," Dr. Maves says. "Ovulation may not always occur on the same day each cycle, especially if you have irregular cycles. By tracking your temperature, you will begin to see patterns that you can use to your advantage."

Want to see more?

• All About Ovulation: The Inside Story to Help You Conceive
• Fertile Signs: Scientific and Subtle Ways to Know You're Ready to Conceive
• Basal Body Temperature: Should You "Temp" for Fertility Signs?
• 7 Sexy Secrets for Conception: Make It a Moment You'll Never Forget
• Join the discussion on our Family.com community!

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