I am looking for a small hand-held computer that reads basal temperature. I read of one such product, called "Rabbit," but it doesn't seem to be available anymore (at least, the number to call for it is now disconnected). Do you know where I can get this type of item? My husband and I are trying to get pregnant, and this sounds like it would be a great help.

Annette

Hand-held computers that monitor basal body temperature (BBT) simplify the process, but they are not effective at indicating the appropriate time to schedule intercourse. Charting your BBT involves taking your temperature each morning before you get out of bed. Around the time of ovulation, the temperature rises about one half of a degree F. Usually the temperature will rise above 98 after ovulation. Unfortunately, there is little relationship between any dips in temperature before presumed ovulation and the actual time of ovulation. This means that by using BBTs, you can look back at the end of the month to see if you have ovulated. But it is just not helpful to indicate when you WILL ovulate.

If you are concerned about timing intercourse for intrauterine insemination, you should consider using a urine LH test. This involves placing a few drops of a morning urine sample on the test stick; a change in color indicates that you will likely ovulate the next day. In general, these tests are thought to be about 85 percent accurate. Several different test kits are available for less than $30 for about a week's worth of tests.