Period Delay
Period delay medication allows a period to be postponed for a specific event or occasion, such as a holiday or important date
About period delay
Period delay tablets typically contain norethisterone, a progestogen that maintains the womb lining and prevents it from shedding, delaying the period until the medicine is stopped. It's not a contraceptive and doesn't prevent pregnancy, so contraception should continue as normal if needed
Treatments
Symptoms
Not a condition with symptoms of its own, but possible side effects include:
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes
• Headache
• Nausea
• Some spotting may still occur in a minority of people
Diagnosis
Suitability is assessed via a health questionnaire covering medical history, since norethisterone isn't suitable for everyone, including those with a history of blood clots, certain cancers, liver disease, or migraine with aura
Treatment
Tablets are usually started three days before the period is due and continued for the duration the delay is needed, for up to a maximum of around 2-3 weeks; the period usually starts within a few days of stopping
Prevention and self-care
• Plan ahead, starting the medicine in good time before the period is due
• Continue using contraception separately, as this doesn't prevent pregnancy
• Take tablets at a consistent time each day
• Report any concerning symptoms, such as leg swelling or severe headache, promptly
• Avoid using period delay medication frequently as a routine method of cycle control
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 22 September 2026