Period Delay Medication: Taking Control of Your Cycle

Whether it's your wedding, a holiday, or an important event, sometimes you need to delay your period. Learn about safe and effective period delay medication.
Period Delay Medication: Taking Control of Your Cycle
Your wedding day. A beach holiday. A marathon. An important exam. Life doesn't always align with your menstrual cycle—but sometimes, you need it to.
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we offer period delay medication through a quick and confidential consultation, helping you take control of your cycle for those important moments.
What is Period Delay Medication?
The most commonly used period delay tablet is Norethisterone, a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone. It works by maintaining hormone levels that would naturally drop before your period, preventing menstruation from starting.
How Does It Work?
During a normal cycle, progesterone levels fall, triggering your womb lining to shed (your period). Norethisterone keeps progesterone levels elevated, delaying this process until you stop taking the tablets.
Who Can Use Period Delay Medication?
Period delay tablets are suitable for most healthy women. However, they may not be appropriate if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a history of blood clots
- Have certain liver conditions
- Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Have breast cancer or hormone-sensitive cancers
- Have severe circulatory problems
Our pharmacist will assess your suitability during your consultation.
How to Take Norethisterone
- Start: 3 days before your expected period
- Dose: One 5mg tablet, three times daily
- Duration: Up to 17 days of continuous use (delays period for up to 20 days)
- Your period: Usually starts 2-3 days after stopping
Important Notes
- Not a contraceptive—use additional protection if needed
- Take at regular intervals (e.g., morning, afternoon, evening)
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember
Common Uses for Period Delay
Holidays
No one wants to worry about their period while lounging on a beach or exploring a new city. Period delay gives you freedom to enjoy your holiday fully.
Weddings
Whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, you want to feel your best on the big day without period-related discomfort.
Sporting Events
Marathon runners, swimmers, and athletes often prefer to delay their period for major competitions.
Religious Observances
Some religious practices have specific requirements during menstruation. Period delay can help manage timing.
Medical Procedures
Certain medical procedures may be easier without menstruation occurring at the same time.
Possible Side Effects
Most women tolerate Norethisterone well, but possible side effects include:
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Mood changes
- Bloating
- Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
These are usually mild and temporary.
Getting Period Delay Medication at Pulteney Pharmacy
Our service is quick, confidential, and convenient:
- Book a consultation (or walk in)
- Private discussion with our pharmacist
- Health assessment to ensure suitability
- Same-day supply if appropriate
No need to see your GP—we can help you today.
Plan Ahead
For best results, book your consultation at least 2-3 weeks before your trip or event. This ensures:
- Time to assess suitability
- Ability to start tablets at the right time
- Flexibility if questions arise
Take Control of Your Cycle
Don't let your period dictate your plans. Speak to our team about period delay medication.
📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Your body, your choice, your timing.