Planning a holiday, a big event, or an important trip can be stressful enough without your period arriving at the worst possible time. If you have been considering a period delay pill, you are not alone. Period delay tablets are a popular option for people who want more control over their cycle for short-term plans, and when used correctly, they can be a helpful and safe choice for many.
At The Care Pharmacy, we support patients through discreet online services and straightforward guidance, so you can make informed decisions with confidence. If you are thinking about delaying your period for the first time, contact us or complete our online consultation form, and we will help you check whether it is suitable for you.
A period delay pill is a medication designed to delay your period for a short time. In the UK, the most commonly used option is norethisterone, which is a type of synthetic progesterone (progestogen).
It works by keeping your hormone levels stable for a little longer than usual, which helps prevent the lining of the womb from shedding. This means your period does not start until you stop taking the tablets.
Period delay pills are typically used for:
They are intended as a temporary solution, rather than something used frequently or long-term.
Your period begins when progesterone levels drop, triggering the womb lining to shed. The period delay pill helps maintain progesterone levels so your body does not receive that “drop” signal.
Once you stop taking the tablets, progesterone levels fall and your period usually starts within a few days.
For many people, the process feels predictable and manageable, as long as you start at the right time and follow the dosing instructions carefully.
Timing is one of the most important things to get right when taking a period delay pill.
In most cases, norethisterone is started around 3 days before your period is due. If you leave it too late and bleeding has already started, it may not work effectively.
A simple planning checklist can help:
If your cycle is irregular or you are unsure about dates, it is worth getting advice before ordering.
Most people use a period delay pill for a short window, such as a week or two, but the exact length depends on the treatment guidance you are given.
You will usually keep taking the tablets three times a day for as long as you want to delay your period, up to the recommended maximum duration. After stopping, your period normally arrives within 2 to 3 days, although it can sometimes take a little longer.
If you need to delay your period for a longer trip, contact us and complete our online consultation form so we can advise you on the safest option.
After you stop the period delay pill, your hormone levels return to their normal pattern and your period begins shortly afterwards.
Your first period after using norethisterone may be:
This is usually temporary, and most people find their cycle settles back into its usual routine within the next month or two.
Like all medications, a period delay pill can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many people tolerate it well, especially when it is used for a short period.
Possible side effects include:
If you are prone to migraines, have a history of hormone sensitivity, or feel unwell when taking hormonal contraception, it is especially important to speak to a clinician first.
A period delay pill is not suitable for everyone. It may not be recommended if you have certain health conditions or risk factors, particularly those linked to blood clots.
You may be advised not to take norethisterone if you have a history of:
If you are not sure whether it is safe for you, contact us and complete our online consultation form. We will help you understand your options clearly.
This depends on the type of contraception you use. Some people can manage their period timing through their contraceptive pill schedule instead of using a separate period delay pill.
For example, if you are on a combined pill, you may be able to safely skip the break and delay bleeding. However, if you are on a progestogen-only pill, the situation can be different, and spotting is more common.
It is always best to get advice before combining treatments, so you stay protected and avoid unwanted side effects.
No. A period delay pill is not a contraceptive, and it does not protect against pregnancy.
If you have sex while taking it, you should still use your usual contraception. If you are not using contraception and there is a chance you could be pregnant, you should not take norethisterone without medical advice.
If this is your first time using a period delay pill, these tips can help you feel more prepared:
A period delay pill can be a convenient short-term option when you want more control over your cycle for an important event or trip. The key is choosing the right timing, understanding what to expect, and making sure it is safe for your health history.
If you are ready to explore period delay tablets, contact us today or complete our online consultation form. Book now to get discreet support and guidance from The Care Pharmacy before your first course.
This blog was written in collaboration with Pharmacy Mentor.
Medically reviewed by
Superintendent Pharmacist
If you are searching for how to get rid of a UTI in 24 hours, you are not alone. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can come on quickly and make everyday life feel uncomfortable, distracting, and exhausting. The burning sensation, frequent urge to urinate, and lower abdominal discomfort can leave you desperate for fast relief. At […]
If you’ve started Wegovy and noticed your period feels a little “off”, you’re not the only one. Some women see changes in their cycle while their body adjusts to weight loss. This can lead to worries about how Wegovy and periods are connected and whether the medicine can impact your menstrual cycle. The truth is […]
If you use birth control and also want help with weight loss, it can be hard to know which injection is safest for you. Wegovy vs Mounjaro for contraceptive users is a common question, especially if you rely on the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC) and do not want any surprise changes to your cycle […]
