Start-up Supplies

The supplies needed to begin the Marquette Method will depend on which indices of fertility are going to be tracked each cycle.  The Marquette Method has protocols available for the following biological indicators of fertility:

  • Urinary fertility hormones
  • Cervical mucus observations
  • Basal body temperature (BBT)

Urinary fertility hormone measurements are the most accurate predictors of ovulation.  They are also the simplest and most objective biological signs of fertility to trend!  For this reason, the majority of Marquette Method users opt to use the Clearblue Fertility Monitor in combination with low cost, single-use LH test sticks to identify the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and ovulation each cycle.  Many opt to include cervical mucus observations in their NFP routine, as well.  BBT trends are most commonly reserved for circumstances in which additional observations are needed to gain confidence in identifying the fertile time either due to a client's preference or in complex situations identified by the instructor.  

Ultimately,  the simpler the method is, the happier the couple.  The happier the couple, the longer they will choose to continue to practice that method of NFP!  The goal is to keep things simple while accurately identifying fertility each cycle.  The more precisely we can pinpoint ovulation, the greater confidence the couple will have in succeeding at their intention to avoid or achieve pregnancy.

 

Urinary Fertility Hormones

To trend urinary hormone levels and identify ovulation each cycle, you will need:

  1. Clearblue Fertility Monitor

    There are two different versions of the fertility monitor available and either model is acceptable.  

    • The Touch Screen Clearblue Fertility Monitor is much more user friendly and is my preferred model of the monitor.   Cost ~ $125
    • The original Clearplan or Clearblue Fertility monitors are no longer in production but used versions can often be found on eBay.  Cost - variable

  2. Clearblue Fertility Monitor Test Sticks

    A box of test sticks is necessary to go along with the monitor.  These can be used up to 6 months past the expiration date  however, it is not recommended to use expired test sticks when you are new to the method or when postpartum.  Cost ~ $35/box

  3. Ovulation Tests

    There are many versions of single-use LH tests or, ovulation predictor kits (OPK), on the market.  Most are acceptable to use in combination with the monitor but it is recommend to avoid digital versions.  Trustworthy brands include Wondfo or Easy@Home.

                                              OR

The monitor, test sticks, and ovulation tests can be found using the hyperlinks above or purchased through Amazon, eBay, Walmart.com, CVS, or Walgreens.  Easy@Home ovulation tests can be purchased at Target.

Start-up costs can be cumbersome if you plan to track urinary fertility hormone levels.  The monitor is far superior and I highly recommend purchasing it while postpartum, breastfeeding, and awaiting the return of your first menses.  However, for those who are in regular cycles and having routine, predictable periods, there are other low-cost protocols that do not require the monitor and utilize ovulation tests alone.  

If finances are a concern, feel free to inquire about other protocols that meet your needs and budget!

 

Cervical Mucus

No supplies are needed to observe cervical mucus signs.

 

Basal Body Temperature

BBT is not typically necessary to track with the Marquette Method protocols however, if temping is desired, a BBT thermometer is necessary.  

 

Extras

There are scenarios in which additional products may be recommended including PROOV progesterone tests or Premom quantitative ovulation/LH tests, but the necessity of these items is rare in women with regular, predictable cycles.   Information and links to these supplementary products can be found here.