Period Delay
Period Delay medication allows temporary postponement of menstruation for special occasions or travel. Safe period delay treatment is prescribed through Chemist Doctor after online assessment by UK doctors. This solution provides hormonal control when needed.
Period Delay Treatments
Norethisterone Tablets
Assessment
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Treatment
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Delivery
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Understanding Period Delay Treatment
Many women experience situations where menstrual bleeding would be particularly inconvenient. Our period delay service provides safe, prescription-only solutions for:
- Special occasions (weddings, holidays)
- Physical competitions or expeditions
- Medical conditions exacerbated by menstruation
Norethisterone 5mg tablets maintain progesterone levels to delay shedding of the uterine lining. When taken correctly 3 days pre-menstruation, they can postpone bleeding for up to 17 days.
Available Period Delay Treatments
Norethisterone 5mg Tablets
The first-line treatment for most women under 35 with BMI ≤30. Taken 3x daily from 3 days pre-period until desired restart date.
Provera 10mg Tablets
Alternative for women over 35 or with BMI >30. Contains medroxyprogesterone acetate with similar efficacy.
Treatment Specifications
| Pack Size | Delay Duration |
|---|---|
| 30 tablets | Up to 7 days |
| 60 tablets | Up to 17 days |
How Norethisterone Works for Period Delay
This synthetic progestogen maintains thickened endometrium by:
- Mimicking natural progesterone
- Preventing uterine lining shedding
- Delaying menstruation until 2-3 days post-treatment
Important: Not a contraceptive. Use barrier methods during treatment. Avoid if pregnant/breastfeeding.
Safety Considerations for Period Delay Medication
While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects include:
- Nausea (8% of users)
- Breast tenderness (5%)
- Headaches (3%)
Contraindicated with certain medications. Full safety review included in our free consultation.
Alternatives to Pharmaceutical Period Delay
For contraceptive pill users:
- Monophasic COCP: Skip placebo week
- Progestogen-only pill: Continuous use
Non-pharmaceutical options limited. NHS guidance recommends hormonal methods.
Period Delay Treatment When Travelling
When carrying medication abroad:
- Keep in original packaging
- Carry prescription copy
- Check GOV.UK medication travel rules
Where Can I Buy Period Delay Treatment Online in the UK
Secure 'Period Delay' Prescription & Next-Day Delivery
Order period delay tablets with confidence through our UK-registered prescribers. All requests are reviewed within 4 working hours, with eligible patients receiving same-day prescriptions. Orders placed before 3pm are dispatched for next-day tracked delivery.
Our service provides:
- Norethisterone 5mg tablets – the only UK-licensed period delay medication
- Dispensed by GPhC-registered pharmacies
- Personalised dosage plans based on your travel/event dates
Our clinical checks include:
- Contraception and menstrual cycle review
- Screening for contraindications (e.g., history of blood clots)
- Clear guidance on when to start/stop treatment
Not suitable if: You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of thrombosis, liver disease, or hormone-sensitive cancers. Periods typically resume 2-3 days after stopping tablets. Always consult your GP for first-time symptoms or complex medical history.
Period Delay FAQs
Can I use contraceptive pills to delay my period?
Yes, but the method varies by pill type:
- Fixed dose combined pills: Skip the pill-free week and start your next pack immediately.
- Every Day pills: Skip the hormone-free 'dummy' pills and begin your next pack straight away.
- Bi-phasic pills: Skip the pill-free week and continue taking the higher progestogen pills from the end of your current pack.
- Mini pill (progestogen-only): Requires additional Norethisterone (three 5mg doses daily) alongside your regular contraception.
Why might someone want to delay their period?
Common reasons include:
- Special occasions like holidays or important events
- Medical conditions such as heavy/painful periods or endometriosis
- Managing severe premenstrual symptoms
- As part of breast cancer treatment (under medical supervision)
What are the potential side effects of period delay medication?
Norethisterone may cause:
- Changes in sex drive
- Headaches
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Breakthrough bleeding (with prolonged use)
Consult your GP immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms.
How long can I safely delay my period?
We recommend:
- No more than 2 weeks when using Norethisterone
- Only until your next pill-free week when using contraceptive pills (unless advised otherwise by your GP)
Is period delay medication safe?
When used occasionally and as directed:
- Norethisterone and contraceptive pills are generally safe for short-term period delay
- Most side effects are mild (e.g., nausea or headaches)
- Serious complications are rare
Will my period be different after delaying it?
You may notice:
- A slightly heavier flow (as the medication prevents womb lining shedding)
- Minimal changes if only delayed briefly
- More noticeable effects if you delay multiple times in one cycle (which isn't recommended)
How frequently can I delay my period?
For optimal health:
- Allow several normal menstrual cycles between delays
- Avoid delaying more than once per cycle
- Let your hormones return to their natural rhythm regularly
Order in 3 Simple Steps..
 | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 22 May 2025
Next Review: 15 December 2025
Published on: 22 May 2025
Last Updated: 23 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
 | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |
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Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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