Understanding Cycle Warnings

Everyone’s cycle is unique. Even within what would be considered a “normal cycle” according to Marquette NFP™, there can be a wide range of variation. Many of the warnings that pop up in the app are simply there to let you know that something outside of the norm has happened in your charting.

It’s normal for even someone with very regular cycles to see a warning pop up occasionally. Sometimes it’s a simple charting issue that needs to be corrected—like forgetting to chart a peak. Other times, it may reflect a real deviation from typical patterns, such as a missed peak due to illness. The Marquette NFP™ Pro app is designed to let you know if it notices patterns in your cycle that you may want to review.

If a warning appears, we recommend reviewing your chart and, if needed, connecting with a Marquette Method Certified Professional (MMCP). Below, you’ll find more information about what each warning means and when to seek additional support.

This post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about your health or menstrual cycle, please reach out to a qualified medical professional.

Common Cycle Warnings:

Luteal Phase Length

The luteal phase—the phase after ovulation and before your next menstruation—typically lasts about 10–15 days. If your luteal phase extends beyond 16 days, it may indicate that you have “missed your period,” which can be a sign of pregnancy.

Pregnancy is more likely if you had intercourse during your fertile window during that cycle. You can confirm pregnancy with an over-the-counter test, by contacting your MMCP and/or healthcare provider.

Missed Peak

Peak readings indicate ovulation and are essential for calculating fertile windows. Missing a peak in a cycle can be normal and may happen for a variety of reasons, including stress or illness. Because peaks are used to calculate fertile windows, the app flags missed peaks to ensure they weren’t missed due to charting error.

If two peaks are missed within a 6-month window, we recommend reaching out to a MMCP for guidance!

Two Missed Peaks in Six Cycles

The Marquette Method algorithm uses peak data from your last six cycles to calculate the beginning of your fertile window. If two peaks are missed within those six cycles, there isn’t enough data to accurately determine that start date.

When this happens, the app automatically reverts to the most conservative fertile window start date (day 6) until at least five of your last six cycles include a recorded peak. We also recommend touching base with a MMCP. They can help confirm that you’re testing and charting correctly and rule out any underlying concerns.

Two Peaks in One Cycle

Peak-type cervical mucus can occasionally appear more than once within a cycle. This can happen because fluids such as arousal fluid or seminal fluid can look like peak-type mucus. These typically dissipate quickly and may not represent a true peak.

If you record peak-type mucus and it seems unusual, continue observing for additional days of peak-type mucus. A second peak observation may extend your fertile window.

If you are unsure how to interpret these observations or have questions about your chart, we recommend reaching out to your MMCP for guidance.

Irregular Bleeding Patterns

Typical menstrual bleeding gradually increases and then tapers off over a window of about five to seven days at the beginning of your cycle. Prolonged light bleeding, sudden bleeding, heavy bleeding (levels 5 or 6), or bleeding outside of menstruation may indicate that something is off.

Abnormal bleeding should always be taken seriously and evaluated promptly by an instructor. Marquette Instructors are healthcare professionals and can help guide you on next steps.

Still have questions? Get Support.

Want to learn the Marquette Method? Find an instructor near you!

This post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns about your health or menstrual cycle, please reach out to a qualified medical professional.