My Favorite Charting Supplies
The basic supplies needed for charting your cycles are a thermometer, pen, and paper. Personally, I prefer paper charting rather than using an app; charting on paper forces me to analyze my charts, and it’s easier for me to get a full picture of my charting. Plus, now having charts of 40+ cycles, it’s fun to see a full stack of cycle data.
There are a few products I love to use when it comes to charting:
Thermometers
When purchasing a thermometer for NFP, it’s important to buy a basal body thermometer that has 1/100th of a degree accuracy. A typical thermometer you may pick up at the drugstore may not be sufficient. Additionally, the thermometer must be for oral, vaginal, or rectal use. Ear thermometers, for instance, are not accurate enough.
I do own a Tempdrop and love using it. You wear the thermometer band around your arm while you sleep. It is not a “basal body” thermometer, as it is an auxiliary thermometer. If starting the Tempdrop, I recommend taking your temperature orally and using the Tempdrop for the first two cycles to see if the patterns are consistent. Tempdrop can be expensive. A normal basal body thermometer can work great, so don’t feel obligated to buy expensive Femtech. People who may have erratic sleep schedules (such as shift work or mothers with young children) may benefit from Tempdrop.
You can receive 10% off of Tempdrop with my referral code HERE.
Charts
In the SymptoPro program, we chart using this printable PDF. I personally use this chart when I track my cycles and find it really easy to use.
If you want more room to track other symptoms, medications, etc. here is also another good option. Personally, I will print the SymptoPro chart, and on the back side, print a spreadsheet I created where I can track my symptoms, exercise, nutrition, supplements, etc. each day.
If you use Tempdrop, it will connect with an app that allows you to chart your symptoms as well. I think it’s fine to use that to keep track of your observations throughout the day, but I would NOT rely on it for evaluating where you are in your cycle. For me, it is always wrong—it always tells me I’m "missing” my period, but in reality, my ovulation was delayed.
That same rule of thumb goes for any other charting app. You should not rely on an algorithm to determine your infertile and fertile windows; you should rely on your own observations and apply rules with the help of a certified instructor.
Other Supplies
These Pilot Precise V5 RT pens are my absolute favorite with which to chart. When charting on paper, it’s ideal to have a pen with a fine point tip. (That way, I can add more information about my symptoms without taking up so much space!)
I recommend keeping your charts in a 1/2 inch 3-ring binder. A simple three-hole punch comes in handy.
When using the SymptoPro method, you will do a “tissue test” every time you use the bathroom. It’s important to use white, unscented toilet paper.
Additionally, it’s helpful to avoid products that can affect your cervical mucus observations. Products to avoid include underwear that is not breathable (cotton is great!), scented tampons and pads, fabric softeners, etc.
Ready to learn more? Schedule a free 15-minute call with me to ask any questions you have about charting your cycle!
I do not officially endorse these products and cannot guarantee their quality or performance. I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using my Tempdrop code.