What is a Period Delay Service?
A period delay service allows individuals to temporarily delay their menstrual period using prescribed medication. It is a convenient option for those who want to avoid menstruation during important events such as holidays, exams, sports competitions, weddings, or religious observances.

How Does It Work?

Period delay medication contains progestogen, a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone. The most commonly prescribed medicine is norethisterone.

• Norethisterone works by maintaining the hormone levels that normally drop before a period, thereby postponing the shedding of the uterine lining (which triggers menstruation).

• The period typically resumes a few days after stopping the medication.

When to Start and How to Take It

• Usually, one tablet (5mg) is taken three times a day, starting 3 days before the expected period.

• You can continue taking it for up to 10–14 days, depending on medical advice.

• Your period will usually start 2–3 days after stopping the tablets.

Who Can Use the Period Delay Service?

It’s generally suitable for:

• Healthy individuals who are not on hormonal contraception

• Those with regular menstrual cycles

• Women who do not have a history of blood clots, liver disease, or hormone-sensitive cancers

Note: If you’re using the combined contraceptive pill, your doctor may advise a different method (such as skipping the pill-free break).

How to Access the Service

• Available through GPs, travel clinics, and online pharmacies

• Requires a short health assessment to ensure it’s safe for you

• A prescription is needed for norethisterone and similar medications

Side Effects

While generally well tolerated, possible side effects include:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Bloating

• Breast tenderness

• Changes in mood

Rarely, progestogen medication can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in smokers or those with certain medical conditions.

Important Considerations

• This medication does not prevent pregnancy — it is not a form of contraception.

• It should not be used regularly as a substitute for proper menstrual management or birth control.

• Always consult a healthcare provider before starting period delay medication, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.