Period Delay
Postpone your period safely and discreetly with a short online consultation
About period delay tablets
Period delay tablets contain a synthetic form of the hormone **progesterone**, which prevents your period from starting while you take them. They are commonly used to delay menstruation for short-term reasons such as holidays, travel, weddings, or sports events
Your period will normally return within a few days after you stop taking the tablets.
Treatments we prescribe
We follow national guidance and our internal clinical protocol. All treatments are prescription-only and individually assessed.
**Norethisterone (Utovlan)**
• Active ingredient: Norethisterone 5 mg
• Typical dose: 1 tablet three times daily
• Licensed in the UK for period delay. Start at least 3 days before your expected period.
**Medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera)**
• Active ingredient: Medroxyprogesterone 10 mg
• Typical dose: 1 tablet two to three times daily
• Off‑label alternative used when norethisterone is unsuitable. Mild breakthrough bleeding can occur.
Key Factors
• **Start treatment:** At least 3 days before your expected period.
• **Duration:** Up to 30 days of continuous use.
• **Return of period:** Usually within 2–3 days after stopping.
• **Not a contraceptive:** Use barrier contraception to prevent pregnancy.
Who can use this service
Our period delay consultation is suitable for **adults aged 18 and over** with regular cycles who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
We may not be able to prescribe if you have:
– A personal or family history of blood clots (DVT, PE, stroke, or heart attack)
– Liver disease or unexplained vaginal bleeding
– Hormone‑sensitive cancers (e.g. breast cancer)
– Migraine with aura, high blood pressure, or other risk factors increasing clot risk
Possible side effects
Most people tolerate period delay tablets well. Common effects may include:
– Mild headache, nausea, tiredness
– Breast tenderness or bloating
– Light spotting or breakthrough bleeding
**Seek urgent medical help** if you experience:
– Pain or swelling in one leg
– Sudden chest pain or breathlessness
– Severe headache or visual changes
Frequently asked questions
**Can I start tablets after my period begins?**
No. They must be started at least 3 days before your period is due.
**How long can I delay my period?**
Up to 30 days, depending on how long you continue taking the tablets.
**Is this a contraceptive?**
No. Period delay tablets only postpone bleeding — they do not prevent pregnancy.
**When will my period return?**
Usually within 2–3 days after stopping the tablets.
Consultation fee
Online consultation: £30
Prescription (if suitable): Issued electronically
Medicine cost: Payable at the dispensing pharmacy (price depends on brand and quantity)