Period Delay (Private)

When to book period delay treatment

Book our private period delay service if you have a holiday, wedding, exam, sporting event or special occasion coming up and you want to postpone your period. Treatment uses norethisterone, a prescription medicine, and needs to be started three days before your period is due, so book your consultation one to two weeks ahead.

Norethisterone is suitable for most healthy women aged 16 and over. Our pharmacist will check that you:

• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have no history of blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism)
• Are not already taking hormonal contraception
• Do not have severe liver disease or unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Are not allergic to norethisterone

How norethisterone works

Norethisterone is a synthetic form of progesterone. Your period starts when progesterone levels drop and the womb lining sheds. Keeping those levels topped up holds the lining in place, so your period does not start. Once you stop the tablets, your period usually arrives within two to three days.

The standard dose is one 5mg tablet three times a day, started three days before your period is due. You can take it for up to 17 days, delaying your period by up to 20 days.

Side effects

• Bloating or water retention
• Breast tenderness
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headaches
• Changes in mood or libido
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding

Side effects are usually mild and settle once you stop the tablets. Norethisterone is not a contraceptive, so keep using your usual method while taking it.

Period delay and contraception

If you take the combined oral contraceptive pill, you may be able to delay your period simply by running two packs together without the usual break. Our Pharmacy Contraception Service can advise. If you use the progesterone-only pill, an implant or another method, speak to our pharmacist about the best option for you.

Common questions

Will it affect my fertility? No. Norethisterone is short-term and has no effect on long-term fertility.

Can I use it every month? It is designed for occasional use. For ongoing cycle control, hormonal contraception is usually more suitable.

What if I miss a tablet? Take it as soon as you remember, unless the next dose is nearly due. Missed doses can cause breakthrough bleeding or an early period.

Find period delay treatment near you

No GP appointment needed. A private consultation, assessment and same-day supply, usually completed in a single visit, with clear instructions on how and when to take the tablets. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy.