How to Delay Your Period Safely and Effectively
08/Apr
Delaying your period isn’t about avoiding nature — it’s about taking control. Whether you’re heading on holiday, planning a wedding, or just want a break from the usual cramps and discomfort, sometimes the timing of your period couldn’t be worse. The good news is, it’s possible to safely delay your period using prescription treatment. In this blog, we’ll look at how a period delay pill works, when to take them, and how to get them quickly and safely through Mentor Pharmacy.
Why You Might Want to Delay Your Period
There are all sorts of reasons someone might want to delay their period — and they’re all valid. Life doesn’t always work around your cycle, and sometimes you just want the freedom to feel your best.
Common reasons include:
- — Going on holiday or travelling
- — Attending a big event like a wedding or party
- — Managing heavy periods or painful cramps
- — Taking part in sports or physical activities
- — Reducing disruption during exams or busy work periods
If your period often gets in the way, using a period delay pill occasionally can make a big difference.
What Is a Period Delay Pill and How Does It Work?
The most common period delay pill prescribed in the UK is norethisterone. It’s a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. During your menstrual cycle, your progesterone levels naturally drop, which causes the womb lining to shed — in other words, your period starts.
Norethisterone works by keeping progesterone levels high, which tricks the body into holding off on menstruation. When you stop taking the tablets, hormone levels drop, and your period begins within a few days.
When and How to Take a Period Delay Pill
To use a period delay pill like norethisterone effectively, timing is key. You’ll need to start taking it around three days before your period is due to begin.
Here’s how it’s usually taken:
- — One tablet three times a day (every 8 hours)
- — Start taking it three days before your expected period
- — You can take it for up to 17 days in a row
- — Your period should return within 2–3 days of stopping the tablets
This method is only intended for occasional use and should not be used as a regular contraceptive. It’s also not suitable for everyone, which is why a quick health check is done before issuing a prescription.
Is It Safe to Delay Your Period?
For most healthy people, yes — delaying your period using norethisterone is safe when used occasionally and as directed. That said, it’s not suitable for everyone.
You should avoid taking it if you:
- — Have a history of blood clots
- — Have liver disease or breast cancer
- — Are currently pregnant or trying to conceive
Some people may also experience mild side effects such as:
- — Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
- — Breast tenderness
- — Headaches
- — Nausea or bloating
Always read the patient information leaflet and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or health conditions.
How Mentor Pharmacy Can Help
At Mentor Pharmacy, we make it simple to get period delay treatment without the stress of visiting your GP. Our licensed prescribers can review your medical history online and approve treatment if it’s safe for you to take.
Why choose us?
- — Quick and secure online assessment
- — No need for a face-to-face appointment
- — Fast delivery, straight to your door
- — Friendly team available for advice and support
If you’re looking for an easy and reliable way to delay your period, we’re here to help. Contact Mentor Pharmacy today to start your consultation and order a period delay pill with confidence.
Medically reviewed by
Mohammed Lakhi
Superintendent Pharmacist
No GP Appointments Needed
