Vintage rectal thermometers

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone would be willing to describe to me the old glass rectal thermometers of the 1940s/50s. I particularly want to know just how long and wide they were, particularly the inserted bulb part. Just to explain I'm writing a story set in that era, and I can't find anywhere that gives me accurate dimentions for these things.

I think I read somewhere that they're a quarter inch wide and 4 inches long, but that seems extremely slim for something made of glass and of that length, about the width of one of those thick headphone/microphone jacks. Any help greatly appreciated.

What you described is what they were.

Actually a bit LESS than a quarter inch wide and NOT round.

The cross section was/is like a rounded triangle so the mercury column width would be magnified and easier to read.

The best approach for a "research project", would be to buy a vintage rectal thermometer off of ebay, or order a livestock thermometer, which isn't much different, as far as shape, dimensions, and size. Test it out, on yourself, and other willing partners, and compare notes. For those of us on this board who have experienced rectal temps. with the classic thermometers, you can deduce that it was a pleasant enough experience to have become a lifelong fetish ! The exact dimensions between different manufacturers, were not the same. There was size variation, bulb shapes differed, etched number lines, etc.Ultimately, who takes your temp. vs. self-temps. can also make an enormous difference. Those who haven't experienced a sexy and sensual rectal temp., have no idea how much pleasure they're missing.

Thank you switchablesuzie and JJM for your info and suggestions.

Perhaps one day, when I have a little more cash to spare, and don't live with my parents I shall do this. For now though, thank you again, your help is invaluable.

^^^ If you really want a "research project" then why not go for the real deal, try Scientific Laboratory Suppliers = Research..Oh & they come in many various lengths & thicknesses calibrated to exacting standards

Why don't you just buy one? eBay has a few of them for sale.