What is the Difference Between Basal Body Temperature and Regular Temperature?

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The main difference between basal body temperature and regular temperature lies in when and where they are measured, as well as their purpose. Here are the key differences:

  • Basal Body Temperature (BBT): This is the lowest temperature of the body when it is at rest. It is measured in the armpit and is typically taken upon waking up in the morning before getting out of bed. BBT is used to track the menstrual cycle and determine the period of ovulation. A basal thermometer shows the temperature in tenths of a degree, allowing you to note tiny changes in body heat.
  • Regular Temperature: This is the average normal body temperature of a healthy human, which fluctuates throughout the day. It is usually measured using a regular medical thermometer. Regular temperature is maintained at a normal range by thermoregulation.

In summary, basal body temperature is measured when the body is at rest and is used to track the menstrual cycle and ovulation, while regular temperature is the average body temperature of a healthy human and is measured using a regular thermometer.

Comparative Table: Basal Body Temperature vs Regular Temperature

The main difference between basal body temperature and regular temperature lies in the fact that basal body temperature is the lowest temperature of the body when it is at rest, while regular temperature is the average normal body temperature of a healthy human. Here is a table comparing the two:

Basal Body Temperature Regular Temperature
Lowest temperature of the body when at rest Average normal body temperature of a healthy human
Ranges between 97°F (36.1°C) and 97.5°F (36.4°C) Ranges between 97.7°F (36.5°C) and 98.6°F (37°C)
Measured using specialized basal thermometers, which are more accurate and sensitive than regular thermometers Measured using regular medical thermometers
Used to track menstrual cycles and predict ovulation in women Temperature fluctuates throughout the day and is maintained at a normal range by thermoregulation

Basal body temperature is typically measured in women to track their menstrual cycles and predict ovulation, while regular temperature is maintained at a normal range by thermoregulation.