Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Health & Baby

Taking Temperature of a Baby Directory

Taking your baby's temperature properly can take a bit of practice. It's an important skill for new parents to master. There are several places on the body that you can take a baby's temperature: in the rear end (rectally), under the arm, in the ear, and sometimes on the forehead. Pediatricians recommend using a rectal thermometer for babies because it is more accurate. Make sure you use a digital thermometer. Old, glass thermometers contain mercury, which is dangerous. Thermometers placed in the mouth (oral thermometers) should not be used until about age 3. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about taking your baby's temperature, the best time to do it, the types of baby thermometers, and much more.

Medical Reference

Features

Thumbnail: Thermometers: A Parent's Guide

There are many types and price ranges of thermometers. Find out which is the best one for your child's age and temperament.

Read Full Article

    Video

    News Archive

    Today in Baby Health

    baby standing in crib
    Slideshow
    changing baby in nursery
    Article
     
    baby acne
    Tool
    baby being fed
    Slideshow
     
    Baby Napping 10 Dos And Donts
    Slideshow
    Woman holding feet up to camera
    Article
     
    Father kissing newborn baby
    Article
    baby gear slideshow
    Slideshow
     

    WebMD Special Sections