Period Delay

Overview

Sometimes, life’s most important moments don’t align with your natural menstrual cycle. Whether it’s a holiday, wedding, religious occasion, or a once-in-a-lifetime event, many women choose to safely delay their period so they can feel comfortable, confident, and free to enjoy the moment without interruption.

Period delay is a common and medically recognised option, usually achieved with prescription tablets that temporarily adjust hormone levels. These medicines don’t stop your period permanently — they simply help you manage timing, so you can feel in control of your body and your schedule.

At SwiftMedi, treatment suitability is always assessed by a UK-registered prescriber following a secure online consultation.

Symptoms

Period delay isn’t about symptoms, but rather about choice and convenience. Women seek period delay if they want to avoid:

• Heavy bleeding or discomfort during important events
• Period pain (cramps, backache, fatigue) interfering with plans
• Difficulty managing periods while travelling
• Religious or cultural reasons for avoiding menstruation at certain times

Diagnosis

No physical tests are usually required. Instead, period delay is considered suitable after reviewing your:

• Medical history
• Menstrual cycle details
• Current medications
• Any history of blood clots, migraines, or liver conditions

A simple online consultation with a SwiftMedi prescriber ensures safe and appropriate use.

Treatments

The most common treatment for period delay is:

• Norethisterone tablets: a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, taken three times daily starting 3 days before your period is due. It can delay bleeding for up to 17 days (sometimes longer, depending on medical advice).
• Other options may include certain combined contraceptive pills if used in a specific way, but norethisterone is the most widely prescribed and reliable method in the UK for short-term delay.

Prevention

Since period delay is not about preventing a condition, this section focuses on planning ahead:

• Speak to a prescriber at least a week before your period is due.
• Keep track of your cycle using an app or diary.
• Order treatment in good time, especially before holidays or big events.

Misconceptions

“Period delay is unsafe.”
When prescribed appropriately, norethisterone is a safe and effective option.

“It will affect my future fertility.”
No — once you stop taking the tablets, your period will return to its normal cycle.

“It’s the same as contraception.”
Not true — period delay tablets are not contraceptives. You will still need protection if you want to prevent pregnancy.

“Only women with medical problems use it.”
Many women without health issues choose period delay for convenience or personal reasons.

FAQ

How long can I delay my period for?
Usually up to 17 days, depending on how long you take the tablets.

When should I start norethisterone?
3 days before your period is due to begin.

Will my period be heavier when it returns?
It may be slightly heavier or more crampy, but most women find it returns to normal.

Does it protect against pregnancy?
No. Period delay tablets are not a form of contraception.

Can anyone take norethisterone?
No. It may not be suitable if you have a history of blood clots, certain migraines, or liver problems.

Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Period delay tablets are only available after a consultation with a prescriber.

Is this discreet?
Yes. SwiftMedi provides secure online consultations and discreet delivery.