Period delay tablets: Are they safe?

There is another method that can be used to delay your period, by using the contraceptive pill, however, this method is not classed as a period delay pill. This method involves taking two packs of the combined contraceptive pill back to back, instead of having a break from pills during your menstrual cycle. Taking two packs of the combined contraceptive pill helps to keep the levels of oestrogen and progestogen high, preventing the womb lining from shedding. When the second pack is finished, your hormone levels will lower and you’ll have a withdrawal bleed (period).

This method is popular with individuals who are already taking this method of contraception, however specific period delay tablets can be taken by people who aren’t using the pill as a form of contraception, 

What are period delay pills used for? 

Period delay tablets are pretty self-explanatory. They are designed to slow down or prevent a period from happening. There could be many reasons as to why you don’t want a period during a certain month. It could be that you are going on holiday, getting married or attending an important event where a period would be more inconvenient than usual. There are also religious or ceremonial circumstances such as in the Muslim faith or Judaism where you may need to delay your period. It’s important to note that period delay tablets can be used to push back or to stop your period from coming for as long as you need to for up to 17 days at a time. 

How do they work? 

During a typical menstrual cycle, levels of the progesterone hormone suddenly drop which causes the lining of your womb to shed leading to a period. However, if the levels of progesterone (norethisterone) are kept at a stable level throughout, the hormone levels stay the same. This means that the process of menstruation is prevented and delays your period from happening. 

You’ll need to ensure that you start taking this form of period delay pill at least 3 days before your period is due to start. Norethisterone tablets can be used safely for up to 17 days at a time, meaning that your period will be delayed whilst you are taking this form of medication. Once you have stopped the treatment of period delay pills, you will get your period within 2-3 days. 

Who can use them? 

Almost any woman who is still having normal, regular periods can use period delay pills. If you suffer from particular uncomfortable or heavier periods, delaying them using norethisterone medication can help to alleviate unwanted bleeding whilst on holiday or at important events. 

However, certain individuals should not take period delay tablets. For example, women who have suffered from liver tumours, breast cancer or jaundice during pregnancy. This medication is also not suitable for women who may be pregnant or who are currently breastfeeding. 

You should also avoid taking progesterone if you have previously suffered from heart issues or a blood-clot related heart attack. It’s best to consult with your doctor or the Pharmacy Online team before starting this form of medication in order to evaluate whether or not this medication is suitable for you. 

Are period delay pills safe? 

Period delay pills, such as Norethisterone, are a very safe and effective way to push back your period. As mentioned earlier, this medication isn’t suitable for individuals with certain health issues or a history of health problems. You should discuss with your doctor or Pharmacy Online team member if you are a suitable candidate for this form of medication.

For short term usage like a holiday, swimming or sporting event and travelling, period delay tablets are a perfect solution to stopping menstrual bleeding from happening. However, period delay pills are only designed for short term usage and should not be taken for longer than the prescribed amount of time. Put simply, this medication is for occasional usage and not a permanent solution. 

It’s also important to note that although period delay pills push back the menstrual cycle, they do not work as contraception. Unlike the contraceptive pill, which can be used to delay periods, Norethisterone medication is for the use of preventing menstrual bleeding, it does not affect fertility and so you should still use another form of contraception in order to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Period delay pills do not protect against STIs, so this is another reason to still use an alternative method of contraception. 

What are the side effects of period delay tablets? 

Although period delay pills are safe for most individuals to use for short lengths of time, like all forms of medication, they can pose risks of certain side effects. It is important to read the enclosed information leaflet that details the specific risks and side effects before undertaking any form of treatment. Although most side effects are mild and will subside over time, they are worth considering before you start taking period delay pills. Here are some common side effects that can occur when using period delay tablets; 

• Changes in weight 
• Diarrhoea 
• Fatigue or unexplained tiredness
• Changes to menstrual cycles
• Sore or tender breasts
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Headaches or migraines 
• Rashes 

It’s also worth noting that some women report suffering from low moods and acne during this form of treatment. Some have also reported that whilst taking period delay pills they have experienced typical period symptoms such as bloating and period pains, even though they are not bleeding. 

Period delay tablets at Pharmacy Online 

At Pharmacy Online, we have period delay pills available for short term usage. Utovlan is a branded form of Norethisterone and both versions are available at Pharmacy Online. Both pills work in the same way and work to delay your period for up to 17 days after your period is due. 

After your initial consultation with our experienced team, we will be able to advise you on whether you are a suitable candidate to use period delay medication. Simply order your prescription and the number of days you need to delay your period for and our order will be delivered straight to your door without the need to leave your home. 

For a simple and effective way to delay your period, contact Pharmacy Online today and our expert Pharmacy team will be happy to advise you and help you find the right treatment you need.