How to Check a Baby’s Temperature Correctly: A Mom's Guide to Fevers

Hello, dear mum, and welcome!

If you are reading this because your little one feels hot, I know exactly how you are feeling right now. Your heart is racing. As you watch your precious child, you wish you could take away all their pain and suffering.

I felt as panicked the first time my children ran a fever. It happens to every mother! It is natural to feel scared when your little one isn't feeling well. A fever can be scary, but it shows your child's immune system is battling illness and keeping them well.

Before we do anything else, let’s figure out exactly what is going on. To do that, we need to check your child's temperature correctly.

The Best Ways to Check a Baby's Temperature

There are many kinds of thermometers at the store, and it can be very confusing. But when it comes to tiny babies, doctors tell us that some ways are much better than others.

Here are the three best ways to check your baby:

• The Rectal Way (In the Bottom): I know, I know. No mom loves doing this! But this is the most accurate way for babies under three months old. It gives the truest reading of their body heat.
• The Temporal Way (On the Forehead): This uses a special scanner that slides across your baby's forehead. It is very fast and does not hurt at all. It is great for older babies.
• The Axillary Way (Under the Armpit): This is safe and easy, but it is not always perfectly accurate. It is a good way to get a quick idea if your baby feels warm, but you might need to double-check it.

Note: Try not to use ear thermometers for very tiny babies under six months old, because their little ear canals are too small for a good reading.

Step-by-Step: How to Check the Bottom (Rectal)

If your baby is very small, this is the safest way to know the real number. Do not be scared. Just go slow and be very gentle.

1. Clean the tip: Clean the thermometer with soap and warm water or a little rubbing alcohol. Wipe it dry.
2. Make it slick: Put a tiny bit of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) on the very tip. This helps it slide in smoothly so it does not hurt your sweet baby.
3. Hold baby still: Lay your baby flat on their back on a changing pad. Lift their little legs up by the ankles, just like you do when you change a diaper.
4. Be very gentle: Gently place the tiny tip of the thermometer into their bottom. Never push hard. It only needs to go in a tiny bit, about half an inch to one inch.
5. Hold and wait: Hold the thermometer steady with your fingers. Keep your other hand on your baby so they do not wiggle. Wait until you hear the beep.
6. Read and clean: Take it out, read the number, and clean the tip well with alcohol.

Step-by-Step: How to Check the Armpit (Axillary)

If your baby is a bit older or you just want a quick check, the armpit is a sweet and gentle option.

1. Get the skin bare: Make sure your baby’s armpit is completely dry and bare. Lift their shirt up.
2. Place the tip: Put the tip of the digital thermometer right in the deepest part of their armpit. It must touch skin, not clothes.
3. Hold it close: Hold your baby’s arm down flat against their side. Keep them tucked against your body so the thermometer stays in place.
4. Listen for the beep: Wait quietly until the machine beeps, then take it out to read the number.

Step-by-Step: How to Check the Forehead (Temporal)

Forehead scanners are amazing because you can use them even when your sweet baby is asleep.

1. Clear the skin: Move any hair out of the way. Wipe away any sweat from their forehead.
2. Turn it on: Press the button on your forehead scanner.
3. Swipe gently: Place the sensor flat against the middle of your baby's forehead. Press the button down and slowly slide it straight across the forehead to the hairline near the ear.
4. Let go and read: Let go of the button and read the number on the screen.

What Number Means a Fever?

A baby’s body is a little warmer than an adult's body. Because of that, a normal temperature can change a little bit.

Here is what you need to know about the numbers:

• Normal: Around 98.6°F (37°C) is normal, but it can go a little bit up or down.
• Fever: For most doctors, a real fever is any number that is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

A quick mom-to-mom tip: Always tell your doctor how you took the temperature (like in the bottom or under the arm), because the numbers can mean slightly different things!

When to Call the Doctor Right Away

We always want to protect our babies. Sometimes, we can stay home and cuddle them through a fever. But other times, we need to call the doctor immediately.

Please call your doctor or go to the clinic if:

• Your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Tiny babies need extra care right away.
• The fever lasts for more than a few days in an older baby.
• Your baby is very sleepy and will not look at you or wake up to eat.
• Your baby is crying non-stop and you cannot soothe them with cuddles or milk.
• Your baby has a hard time breathing or is breathing very fast.

Sweet Ways to Comfort Your Warm Baby

While their body is doing its job, you can help your little love feel a bit better. You do not always have to make the fever go away completely, but you do want to make your baby comfortable.

• Lots of cuddles: Skin-to-skin contact is like magic medicine. Hold your baby close against your chest. Your own body can help them feel safe and calm.
• Keep them hydrated: Offer plenty of breast milk or formula. Babies with fevers lose fluid quickly through sweat, so they need extra drinks to stay hydrated.
• Dress them light: Do not wrap your warm baby in heavy blankets or thick sweaters. This traps the heat inside. Dress them in one layer of soft, breathable cotton clothing.
• A lukewarm bath: You can wipe your baby’s skin gently with a washcloth dipped in lukewarm water. Never use cold water or ice, because that will make them shiver and make them feel worse.

Mama, you are doing great. Keep holding your baby close, look at their sweet eyes, and trust your mom instincts. If you feel like something is wrong, it never hurts to call your doctor just to ask a question. That is what they are there for!

Sending you and your sweet baby so much love and big, warm hugs. You will get through this!

Disclaimer: 

The information provided in this post is for general educational purposes only and shares personal parenting experiences. It is not professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or pediatrician for any questions regarding your child's health or medical conditions. Make sure to double-check the physical label of any tools or products to confirm information is accurate.