Period Delay Tablets

Period delay tablets are a type of hormone tablet that can temporarily hold back a period. The most commonly used medicine contains norethisterone, which is a man made version of the progesterone hormone your body naturally makes. 

During a usual cycle, a drop in progesterone levels triggers the womb lining to shed, and your period starts. Norethisterone keeps progesterone levels higher for a short time so the lining is not shed, which delays bleeding until you stop taking the tablets. 

For people who are not already using the combined pill, norethisterone can be prescribed in a short course. Official information explains that treatment usually starts about three days before your period is due and continues for a limited number of days agreed with a clinician. 

Most guidance suggests that your period will usually return within about two to three days once you finish the course. This approach is meant for occasional use around specific events such as holidays, exams or family occasions, not as a regular way to manage periods. 

You do not usually need a GP appointment for period delay when it is for non medical reasons. Recent information explains that community pharmacies are now the main place to access this type of treatment after a safety check and consultation. 

At South Ealing Pharmacy, your pharmacist will go through your medical history, current medicines and any risk factors before deciding whether period delay tablets are suitable for you. You will always receive clear instructions on how and when to take them.