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Home > Diseases & Conditions > Periods - How to Delay One

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Delaying a Period

Some women may wish to delay a period. This may be if a period is due at a time that would be inconvenient. For example, on a special holiday, during an exam, etc. Delaying a period cannot be guaranteed but the following usually works.

Women taking the combined oral contraceptive pill

If you are taking a fixed-dose combined pill then simply start the next pack without the usual 7-day break. Taking two packs back-to-back in this way is safe if it is done occasionally. You still only need to have a 7-day break at the end of these two packets.

If you are taking a triphasic or biphasic type of pill then you will need to take the last phase of the pills from the second pack immediately after finishing the first pack. Alternatively, you can change to a fixed-dose pill.

You should see your doctor or nurse if you are not sure which pill you are taking.

How does this work?

Women taking 'the pill' do not have normal periods. Rather, they are withdrawal bleeds which occur when the oestrogen in the pill is not taken. The hormones in the pill help to sustain the lining of the uterus. The withdrawal bleed will not normally occur until the pill is stopped and the level of hormone in the body falls (usually once a month in the 7-day break between pill packs).

Women not taking 'the pill'

If you are not taking the combined oral contraceptive pill then a hormone tablet called norethisterone can be prescribed. The dose is 5 mg three times a day starting 3-4 days before a period is due. It can be continued for up to two weeks or so until you want to have a period. Your period will then normally begin 2-3 days after stopping it. Norethisterone is normally safe to take. Some women have side-effects such as bloating, stomach upset, breast discomfort and reduced libido (sex drive).

How does this work?

Norethisterone is a progestogen hormone. Progestogens are hormones that sustain the lining of the uterus. Normally at the time before a period there is a fall in the level of progestogen hormone in the body. When it falls below a certain level, the lining of the uterus is shed as menstrual period. By taking norethisterone tablets (progestogen) the lining of the uterus is sustained until the tablet is stopped.

Note: norethisterone taken in this way is not a contraceptive.

References and Disclaimer | Provide feedback

References

  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.
© EMIS 2010    Reviewed: 8 Jul 2010   DocID: 4523   Version: 38