Natural Family Planning Using the Marquette Method: A Modern, Evidence-Based Approach to Fertility Awareness

Written By Kristin McKee

Natural Family Planning (NFP) has become increasingly popular among couples who want a holistic, hormone-free, and science-informed way to understand their fertility. Among the various NFP systems available today, the Marquette Method stands out for its combination of technology, research, and practical flexibility. Whether you’re aiming to achieve pregnancy, avoid pregnancy naturally, or simply better understand your cycle, the Marquette Method offers a clear, structured, and effective path.

What Is the Marquette Method?

The Marquette Method of Natural Family Planning was developed by the Marquette University College of Nursing. Unlike traditional NFP systems that rely solely on mucus observations or basal body temperature, the Marquette Method integrates fertility hormone testing using digital monitors.

Originally designed around the Clearblue Fertility Monitor, the system now also incorporates newer technology like the Mira Fertility Monitor for couples who prefer more detailed hormone data.

This blend of technology + fertility signs makes the method:

  • Highly accurate

  • Easy to learn

  • Clear and confidence-building for both partners

How the Marquette Method Works

The method uses multiple layers of information to identify fertile days:

1. Hormone Monitoring

The heart of the Marquette Method is the use of at-home hormone testing. Today, couples can choose between two main devices:

✔️ Clearblue Fertility Monitor

Measures:

  • Estrogen

  • Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Displays:

  • Low

  • High

  • Peak fertility

✔️ Mira Fertility Monitor

Monitors actual quantitative hormone levels, such as:

  • Estrogen (E3G)

  • LH

  • Progesterone (PdG) with certain test wands

  • FSH with certain test wands

Because Mira gives numerical hormone values rather than just “Low/High/Peak,” some users find it especially helpful when:

  • Cycles are irregular

  • Postpartum fertility signs are unclear

  • LH surges vary in strength

  • They want more detailed cycle tracking

Both devices can be used within the Marquette framework, and many instructors are trained to help interpret results from either system.

2. Cervical Mucus or Temperature (Optional)

Though hormone monitoring alone is effective, many couples add:

  • Cervical mucus tracking, or

  • Basal body temperature (BBT)

This creates a “cross-check” and increases confidence, especially in complex cycles.

3. Charting

Couples chart their fertility signs through:

  • Paper charts

  • Digital charting systems

  • Or Marquette instructor-supported platforms

Charting helps identify patterns, understand hormone shifts, and support communication between partners.

What Makes the Marquette Method Unique?

✔️ Technology-Based Hormone Tracking

With Clearblue or Mira, couples receive objective data rather than relying only on subjective interpretation.

✔️ Flexible for Different Life Stages

The method works well for:

  • Postpartum

  • Breastfeeding

  • Coming off hormonal birth control

  • Irregular cycles

  • Perimenopause

✔️ Supported by Research

The Marquette Method is rooted in peer-reviewed scientific studies and designed by medical professionals.

✔️ Clear Rules, Strong Success Rates

The structure of the system helps couples feel confident day-to-day.

How Effective Is the Marquette Method?

When used correctly under instructor guidance, the Marquette Method is up to 98–99% effective for avoiding pregnancy.

Effectiveness comes from:

  • Consistent testing

  • Following the rules carefully

  • Using the monitors correctly

  • Communicating openly as a couple

Both Clearblue and Mira can support these high effectiveness rates when applied properly with the method’s protocols.

The Marquette Method for Achieving Pregnancy

Both fertility monitors are highly effective for timing intercourse to achieve pregnancy.

  • The Clearblue monitor detects LH surges and rising estrogen, helping predict ovulation.

  • The Mira monitor offers precise numerical hormone levels, giving deeper insight into:

    • Cycle health

    • Strength of ovulation

    • Progesterone patterns (with some test types)

Many couples find this especially helpful when navigating infertility or tracking postpartum ovulation return.

Who Can Benefit From the Marquette Method?

The Marquette Method is a great fit for:

  • Couples seeking a natural, hormone-free method

  • Women who want objective fertility data

  • Those who feel unsure interpreting mucus or temperature

  • Postpartum or breastfeeding mothers

  • Couples who appreciate technology and structured rules

  • Anyone wanting a method rooted in clear science

Final Thoughts: Modern NFP for Today’s Couples

Natural Family Planning has evolved far beyond simple charting and temperature checks.
With the Marquette Method, couples gain powerful insights through modern hormone-monitoring technology like the Clearblue Fertility Monitor and the Mira Fertility Monitor, all within a structured, research-backed system.

For couples seeking a natural, empowering, and highly effective way to understand fertility, the Marquette Method offers clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

Kristin McKee