Period delay (norethisterone)
Treatment in 3 easy steps
Most women have regular periods, so are used to being prepared for when they happen. But if you’re going on holiday or have exams coming up, you may want to delay menstruation.
Choose an appointment
Use our easy calendar to book an appointment that suits you.
Consultation
Visit your local pharmacist to see if the treatment is suitable for you.
Treatment
Receive your medication and take as directed.
Is norethisterone right for me?
Norethisterone is safe for most women to take. It’s a synthetic progestogen that’s similar to the progesterone hormone we naturally produce. Before your period, progesterone naturally falls, causing the lining on your womb to shed. But if you take norethisterone, the levels don’t drop and so menstruation doesn’t occur.
It’s important to be aware that norethisterone won’t work as contraception. And you may not be able to take it if you have irregular periods; if you’ve had a recent heart attack or angina; if you have a history of blood clots; if you might be pregnant; or if you have liver problems.
Delay your period
Take three days before you're due to start
Three tablets a day
Continue using contraception
Enjoy your holiday
Book an appointment with your pharmacist today
"Periods can be uncomfortable, annoying, or really painful, so it’s useful for women to know they can delay them if needed. If you’re not taking the pill, or other hormonal contraception, norethisterone is good option to stop your period arriving at an inconvenient time."
Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE
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