

The temperature method helps you predict when you’re going to ovulate by tracking the changes in your body temperature during your menstrual cycle.

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How do I use the temperature method?

Your body temperature naturally changes a tiny bit throughout your menstrual cycle. It’s lower in the first part of your cycle, and then rises when you ovulate. For most people, 96-98 degrees Fahrenheit is their typical temperature before ovulation. After you ovulate, it goes up to 97-99°F.

To use the temperature method, you must take your temperature the same way every single day, and write it on a fertility awareness chart. You can get FAM charts from a nurse or doctor, your local Planned Parenthood health center, or a family planning clinic.

In the beginning, you can ask your doctor or nurse to help you read your chart. Soon, you’ll be able to read and understand it yourself. Wait until you’ve charted at least 3 months before relying on the temperature method for birth control.

The temperature method is more effective when you combine it with the other fertility awareness methods (like the cervical mucus method).

How do I take my temperature?

In order to track your temperature accurately, you have to do it as soon as you wake up, before you even get out of bed. Take your temperature before you talk, eat, drink, have sex, check your phone — take your temperature before you do ANYTHING. Keep the thermometer in place for about five minutes.  

The changes in your temperature will be really small — fractions of a degree — so get a special large-scale basal thermometer. Some basal thermometers are used in your mouth, and others are used in your rectum (butt). Rectal thermometers are usually more accurate and reliable.  You can buy a basal thermometer online or at most drugstores for about $10.

After you take your temperature, write it down on your chart. As you keep tracking your temperature, you’ll start to see a pattern. The changes in your temperature may happen quickly or slowly, and the pattern may be different from cycle to cycle.

Your temperature can change when you’re upset or don’t get enough sleep. Smoking, drinking alcohol, jet lag, being sick or stressed, and using an electric blanket can also mess with your normal temperature. Write stuff like this down on your chart to help you figure out when these changes in your temperature aren’t part of your natural menstrual cycle.

What are the safe days to have sex when using the temperature method?

Safe days begin after the increase in your temperature lasts for at least 3 days, and end when your temperature drops just before your next period begins. During your safe days, you can have unprotected vaginal sex. On your unsafe (fertile) days, avoid sex or use another method of birth control.

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  • 76-88% effective

  • Up to $20 for supplies

  • Dedication required

  • No sex on certain days

FAMs don’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom with FAMs to help protect you from pregnancy and STDs.
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