Some properties of rectum and vagina as sites for basal body temperature measurement
Abrams, R.M.; Royston, J.P.
Fertility and Sterility 35(3): 313-316
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-0282 PMID: 7202755 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)45377-xDocument Number: 387881
The early morning temperatures of 10 healthy nurses aged 21 to 34 were evaluated to determine temperature distribution in vagina and rectum. Measurements of rectal and vaginal temperature were made continuously for 15 to 25 minutes. Each subject was given approximately 300 ml of an iced orange drink to swallow within 1 minute after the measurements. Statistical analysis (paired Student's T-test) revealed no significant differences between corresponding rectal and vaginal temperatures at each insertion depth (13, 9, and 5 cm) and no overall differences between the 3 insertion depths. There was no improvement in the estimation of body core temperature following insertion of a thermojunction beyond 5 cm from the anus or vulva. After ingestion of an iced drink, the vagina exhibited a higher rate of change than did the rectum.