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.