So, you bought a Tempdrop

Tempdrop is a wearable thermometer that makes taking your basal body temperature a heck of a lot easier. There are many ways to make FAM a bit easier to stay with, and using a device like Tempdrop is one of them. Tempdrop is definitely not the only thermometer that you can use for FAM and it is not 100% necessary. You do not need a fancy thermometer to make FAM effective!

If you’ve just ordered a Tempdrop, there are some tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of the device.

I’m not a Tempdrop expert or a customer service expert, but here are some of the questions I get asked quite often as someone who recommends Tempdrop. If you would like direct support from Tempdrop, their customer service folks are incredible. I encourage you to join the Tempdrop Facebook Group or reach out to Tempdrop directly through the Tempdrop app if you have a concerns with your Tempdrop temps or suspect an issue with your sensor.

tempdrop quick set-up guide

So you have just received your Tempdrop in the mail, and have taken it out of the box.

To set up your Tempdrop, start by placing the sensor into the fabric armband’s pocket, making sure the pink button aligns with the mesh on the band. Hook the band to your approximate size, using the extenders if needed. Slide the sensor onto your upper arm, positioning the tip so it points toward your elbow. Then, move the band up, feeling for the soft dip between the muscles just below the armpit. Once the sensor is positioned over this area, check that the band is firm but comfortable. If it needs adjusting, slide it off, rehook, and once the fit is right, you can easily slide it on and off.

Install the Tempdrop app and create an account. The app will make a connection with your device when you sync your first result.

You will also need something to record your Tempdrop temperatures with and interpret the data. I personally recommend the Read Your Body app which syncs with Tempdrop.

You can start using Tempdrop right away, even if you are in the middle of your cycle. Ensure that your chart reflects your cycle by marking day 1 as the first day of menstrual bleed, but start where you are in your cycle.

turning on your tempdrop

For your first night wearing Tempdrop, you will need to ensure that you are wearing it correctly and that it is on while you are wearing it.

Start by turning on the sensor. Hold the pink button for 2-3 seconds until you see a slow flashing green light, indicating it's on.
Place the Tempdrop on your arm and adjust it for comfort. Leave it on throughout the night, ensuring you wear it for at least three hours and get a minimum of two hours of sleep (which doesn’t have to be consecutive).
In the morning, simply remove the Tempdrop. The sensor will automatically shut off once removed and when it cools below 86°F (30°C).
Remember to turn the sensor on before each use and keep it on all night, even if your sleep is interrupted.
You can sync the data immediately or later, as the sensor stores up to 7 nights of data, however, syncing daily is recommended for best practice.

optimal tempdrop positioning

Ensuring that you are wearing the device correctly will mean that you have accurate temperature readings. Some things to keep in mind:

To position your Tempdrop sensor correctly, wear it over the axillary artery area just below your armpit. To find the right spot, flex your arm and feel for the soft skin between your bicep and triceps.
If you have a curvier body, you may need to place it closer to your armpit, over the thinnest skin. Ensure the sensor’s tip is pointing toward your elbow, with the metal button resting against your skin.
The armband should be adjusted to fit very snugly, without being uncomfortable, to maintain good skin contact and prevent the sensor from shifting during sleep. Use the hooks on the band to lock in the correct size, and slide it on and off daily to keep the fit consistent. Over time, the elastic may stretch, so be sure to readjust when necessary.
It's important not to switch arms mid-cycle, as this could affect your temperature readings. If you do need to switch, make a note of it for accurate interpretation. Also, check the tightness of the band periodically and adjust as needed to ensure proper contact.

troubleshooting common errors

If you receive an error message after syncing, here are some common reasons as to why:

No Data to Upload
- If you see this message, removing the battery may erase stored data. After changing the battery, wear Tempdrop again to get a new result. This could also be due to a low battery or poor battery performance. If the battery was not removed and no low battery alert is visible, contact support for further help.
Oops, Data Missing
- This indicates Tempdrop wasn’t turned on before wearing. Ensure the sensor slow flashes green for 30 seconds after activation to confirm it’s on.
More Wear Time Needed
- Tempdrop must be worn for at least 3 hours. The sensor may shut down if removed briefly, if it cools, or if it’s positioned over the muscle or the band is too loose. Double-check the wearing position and avoid long-pressing the button after activation.
Invalid Temperature Result
- External heat sources or improper positioning may cause invalid results. Keep Tempdrop away from things like heat pads or bedside lamps, and make sure it's properly positioned. Contact support if the issue persists.
Sensor Disabled
- If your sensor is disabled due to a lack of connection to the server, contact support via the app menu or the error message link.
Not Enough Beauty Sleep
- A minimum of 2 hours of sleep is required for valid results. The sleep doesn’t need to be consecutive.
Temperature Already Recorded
- Tempdrop records after 3 hours of wear. If removed for more than 20 minutes and it cools below 30°C/86°F, the sensor will shut down. Turning it back on or syncing during the night starts a new session. Sessions are date-stamped based on when Tempdrop shuts down.
Syncing Failed
- This indicates a server connection issue. Check your internet connection, close the app, restart your phone, and try again. If the problem persists, contact support via the app menu. Avoid uninstalling the app unless instructed by support.
Can’t Find Tempdrop
- If Tempdrop fails to connect when syncing, ensure the sensor shows a green flashing light. If it doesn’t, contact support. Also, make sure battery-saving mode is off, and try hard closing the app.
Bluetooth Connection Lost
- Turn Bluetooth off and on, then restart syncing. You can also hard close the app and restart your phone. If the issue continues, contact support, or try syncing with a different phone.
Sync Attempt Has Already Been Made
- This message means no new data is available. Refer to the first error message or contact support for assistance.
These steps should help resolve most Tempdrop issues, but if they don't, contact support.

other tempdrop faq’s

Why is my temp range different with Tempdrop than it is with Oral BBT?

Tempdrop may register temperature ranges that are lower (or in some cases higher) than traditional oral waking temperature measurements. Instead of focusing on the specific temperature values, look for the pattern.

If your results seem unusually low (e.g., in the low 35°C or 95°F range), it is important to ensure you're wearing Tempdrop correctly. External factors could be impacting the readings.

Tempdrop Battery FAQs

How can I tell when my battery is running low?

When your Tempdrop battery starts to run low, you will receive a pop-up notification after syncing. This warning gives you time to replace the battery before it becomes critically low. The notification will continue each day until a new battery is installed.

To find detailed instructions on changing the battery, go to your app menu > Help & FAQs > “Battery replacement guide.”

What should I do if my new battery doesn’t last 4-6 months?

If your new battery doesn’t last the expected 4-6 months, check that you're using a trusted brand of battery, such as Duracell or Energizer. Generic or unbranded batteries may be faulty or have inconsistent performance. If using a reliable battery and you still experience issues, contact our support team for further assistance.

Does a low battery cause lower temperature readings?

No, a low battery will not affect your temperature readings. A decline in temperature or changes in your pattern are not related to battery status. If you're concerned about your readings, please contact us for assistance.

What type of battery does Tempdrop use?

Tempdrop uses a common coin cell (watch) battery model CR2032. You can easily find this type at most stores for just a few dollars.

How long will the battery last?

With daily use, a good-quality battery typically lasts about 6 months.

Will changing the battery mid-cycle affect my temperature results?

No, changing the battery mid-cycle won’t affect your temperature readings. However, any stored sessions will be erased when the sensor is opened, so be sure to sync the data before changing the battery.

Working Night Shifts with Tempdrop

If you work night shifts, here’s how to get accurate temp results:

- Wear Tempdrop during your longest sleep session within a 24-hour period. You need at least 3 hours of wear time to record a result.

- Tempdrop requires a minimum of 2 hours of sleep to generate a result, but the sleep doesn’t need to be consecutive.

- The sensor will shut off and date-stamp the session once removed.

- Make sure to avoid wearing Tempdrop during long awake periods before or after sleep, as this may cause inconsistent readings.

- If your sleep is interrupted but you return to bed (e.g., answering a phone call), leave Tempdrop on.

- If you switch between day and night shifts, make a note of it on your chart and track your pattern over time to adjust.

Sleep and Fever

Do I need to be asleep for a minimum amount of time?

Yes, to receive a result, Tempdrop needs to be worn for at least 3 hours, with a minimum of 2 hours of detected sleep.

What if I have a fever—should I still wear Tempdrop?

It’s recommended not to wear Tempdrop when you’re knowingly ill. Fever or illness can skew your results, leading to confusion, even for a few days post-illness. If you develop a fever overnight, mark the result as questionable on your chart, and pay attention to your results for the next few days.

Skipping a few nights while sick won’t disrupt the overall algorithm, so it’s best to wait until you’re fully recovered before resuming temping.