Definition of Basal temperature

Basal temperature: 1) Usually, a person's temperature on awakening in the morning. As changes in basal temperature accompany ovulation, it is often tracked by women who wish to ensure or avoid pregnancy. 2) A crude measure of thyroid function via taking and comparing basal temperatures (also called the Broda test.)

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11032
Last Editorial Review: 4/27/2011 5:27:15 PM