Charting Your Fertility: A Comprehensive Guide to the Marquette Model
The Marquette Model is a scientifically sound, modern method of Natural Family Planning (NFP) that utilizes objective biomarkers, primarily urinary hormone monitoring, to help couples understand and manage their fertility. It’s unique because it can be used by women in all stages of their reproductive lives – during regular cycles, breastfeeding, weaning, and even perimenopause. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of using the Marquette Model effectively.
## What is the Marquette Model?
The Marquette Model was developed at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It combines cervical mucus observations (optional) with urinary hormone monitoring using the Clearblue Fertility Monitor or the Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor. The monitor measures levels of estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) in urine, providing a clearer picture of the fertile window than relying solely on calendar methods or basal body temperature.
**Key Benefits of the Marquette Model:**
* **Objective Data:** Relies on quantifiable hormone measurements rather than subjective interpretations of cervical mucus alone.
* **High Effectiveness:** When used correctly, the Marquette Model boasts high effectiveness rates for both avoiding and achieving pregnancy.
* **Adaptable:** Suitable for various reproductive stages, including breastfeeding, postpartum, and perimenopause.
* **User-Friendly:** The Clearblue monitor is relatively easy to use and provides clear results.
* **Promotes Couple Communication:** Encourages open and honest communication between partners regarding their fertility goals.
## Getting Started with the Marquette Model
Before diving into the details of charting, here’s how to get started:
1. **Find a Marquette Model Instructor:** This is the most crucial step. A certified instructor will provide personalized guidance and support, ensuring you understand the method correctly. You can find instructors through the Marquette Model website or by searching online. They can help you interpret your charts, answer your questions, and troubleshoot any challenges you encounter. Often, instructors offer virtual sessions, making it convenient to learn from anywhere.
2. **Purchase a Clearblue Fertility Monitor:** You will need either the Clearblue Fertility Monitor (the older version) or the Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor (the newer version). Both monitors function similarly. Ensure you purchase the correct test sticks compatible with your monitor. These monitors and test sticks are readily available online and in most pharmacies. Note that the monitors are reusable, but the test sticks are single-use.
3. **Read the Monitor’s Instruction Manual:** Familiarize yourself with the monitor’s operation, including how to perform tests, interpret results, and troubleshoot errors. The manual contains essential information for accurate and reliable readings.
4. **Consider Cervical Mucus Observations (Optional):** While the Marquette Model primarily relies on urinary hormone monitoring, you can also incorporate cervical mucus observations for a more complete understanding of your fertility. Learning to identify the different types of cervical mucus can provide additional information about your fertile window. Your instructor can provide guidance on this.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Marquette Model
Now, let’s delve into the specific steps involved in using the Marquette Model:
### Phase 1: Initial Setup and Learning
1. **Meet with Your Instructor:** Schedule an initial consultation with your Marquette Model instructor. They will explain the principles of the method, answer your questions, and help you develop a personalized charting plan.
2. **Understand the Monitor’s Symbols:** The Clearblue monitor displays different symbols to indicate your fertility status:
* **Low Fertility:** Indicates a low probability of conception.
* **High Fertility:** Indicates an increasing probability of conception.
* **Peak Fertility:** Indicates the highest probability of conception.
* **Blank:** Indicates no test has been performed or there is an error.
3. **Practice Charting:** Your instructor will provide you with charting materials (paper or digital) to record your monitor readings and any cervical mucus observations (if you choose to incorporate them). Practice charting before you start using the monitor to track your cycles.
### Phase 2: Charting Your Cycle
1. **Starting the Monitor:** On day 6 of your cycle (count day 1 as the first day of your menstrual period), turn on the monitor. The monitor will prompt you to perform a test.
2. **Performing the Test:**
* Use first morning urine for the most accurate results. Avoid drinking excessive fluids before testing.
* Hold the test stick in your urine stream for the recommended time (usually 3 seconds) or collect urine in a clean cup and dip the test stick into the cup.
* Insert the test stick into the monitor as directed in the manual.
* Wait for the monitor to display the result. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
3. **Recording the Result:** Immediately record the monitor’s result (Low, High, or Peak) on your chart. Note the date and cycle day.
4. **Daily Testing:** Continue testing daily until the monitor displays a peak fertility result, followed by at least two low fertility results. Typically, the monitor will ask for 10-20 tests per cycle, depending on the length of your cycle and hormone levels.
5. **Cervical Mucus Observations (Optional):** If you are tracking cervical mucus, record your observations on your chart each day. Note the quantity, consistency, and color of the mucus.
### Phase 3: Interpreting Your Chart and Making Decisions
1. **Identify the Fertile Window:** The fertile window is the period when conception is possible. According to the Marquette Model, the fertile window typically begins with the first “High” fertility reading and ends a few days after the “Peak” reading. Some instructors advise couples to consider the day before the first “High” reading as part of the fertile window, especially if using the method to avoid pregnancy.
2. **Rules for Avoiding Pregnancy:**
* **Abstinence:** Abstain from intercourse during the identified fertile window.
* **Barrier Methods:** Use barrier methods (e.g., condoms, diaphragms) during the fertile window.
3. **Rules for Achieving Pregnancy:**
* **Intercourse:** Have intercourse during the identified fertile window, particularly on the days of “High” and “Peak” fertility.
4. **Consult Your Instructor:** Regularly consult with your instructor to review your charts, discuss any questions or concerns, and refine your understanding of the method.
### Phase 4: Adapting to Different Reproductive Stages
The Marquette Model is adaptable to various reproductive stages. Here’s how to adjust your charting approach:
* **Breastfeeding:** Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation and make it challenging to identify the fertile window. The Marquette Model is particularly helpful during breastfeeding because it relies on objective hormone measurements rather than relying solely on cycle day calculations. You may need to start testing earlier in your cycle (e.g., day 3 or 4) and use more test sticks. Your instructor can provide guidance on interpreting your charts during breastfeeding.
* **Postpartum:** After giving birth, it can take several weeks or months for your cycles to return to normal. The Marquette Model can help you track your fertility as your body recovers. Again, starting testing early in your cycle is generally recommended. Monitor results can be erratic during this period, and instructor support is highly valuable.
* **Weaning:** As you wean your baby, your hormone levels will fluctuate, and your cycles may become irregular. Continue to monitor your hormone levels and consult with your instructor for guidance.
* **Perimenopause:** During perimenopause, cycles can become very irregular, and it can be difficult to predict ovulation. The Marquette Model can help you track your fertility and understand your changing hormone levels. You may need to test more frequently and for a longer period each cycle. Again, instructor support is crucial during this stage.
## Tips for Success with the Marquette Model
* **Be Consistent:** Test daily according to the monitor’s instructions and record your results accurately.
* **Seek Support:** Work closely with a certified Marquette Model instructor. Their expertise and guidance are invaluable.
* **Communicate Openly:** Discuss your charting results and family planning goals with your partner.
* **Be Patient:** It may take a few cycles to become comfortable with the method and understand your unique fertility patterns.
* **Don’t Get Discouraged:** Irregular cycles and hormonal fluctuations can be frustrating, but don’t give up. Your instructor can help you navigate these challenges.
* **Consider a Dedicated App:** Several apps are designed specifically for charting using the Marquette Model. These apps can simplify the charting process and provide valuable insights into your fertility patterns. Examples include apps that allow you to log Clearblue Monitor results and visualize your data.
* **Troubleshooting:** If you encounter any problems with the monitor or your charting, consult the instruction manual and your instructor. Common issues include error messages on the monitor, difficulty interpreting results, and concerns about irregular cycles.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Not Seeking Proper Instruction:** Attempting to use the Marquette Model without guidance from a certified instructor is a common mistake. Proper instruction is essential for understanding the method and interpreting your charts accurately.
* **Inconsistent Testing:** Skipping tests or performing tests at different times of day can lead to inaccurate results. It’s important to test daily at the same time using first morning urine.
* **Incorrect Test Stick Handling:** Failing to follow the instructions for handling and inserting the test sticks can also affect the results. Make sure to use the correct test sticks for your monitor and follow the instructions carefully.
* **Misinterpreting Results:** Misinterpreting the monitor’s symbols or cervical mucus observations can lead to incorrect decisions about intercourse. Work closely with your instructor to ensure you understand how to interpret your charts accurately.
* **Giving Up Too Soon:** It can take a few cycles to become comfortable with the Marquette Model and understand your fertility patterns. Don’t give up if you don’t see results immediately. Be patient and continue to work with your instructor.
## Effectiveness of the Marquette Model
The Marquette Model, when used correctly and consistently, boasts impressive effectiveness rates. Studies have shown that the method has a typical-use pregnancy rate of 1-3% per year when used to avoid pregnancy. Perfect-use effectiveness rates are even higher. The key to success is to follow the instructions carefully, work closely with an instructor, and communicate openly with your partner.
The Marquette Model is a powerful tool for understanding and managing your fertility. By combining objective hormone monitoring with cervical mucus observations (optional) and personalized instruction, you can gain valuable insights into your reproductive health and make informed decisions about family planning. With dedication, patience, and the support of a certified instructor, the Marquette Model can empower you to take control of your fertility journey.