⭐ 4.9/5 on Google · GPhC Registered · NHS & Private · Same-day appointments in Kingston
Don’t Let Your Period Interrupt Your Plans
Three simple steps to get your treatment
Period delay treatment lets you temporarily postpone your period using a medication called Norethisterone 5mg. It works by maintaining stable progesterone levels, preventing your period from starting until you stop the tablets.
You need to start the medication three days before your expected period for it to work effectively and you can continue it for up to 17 days to delay your period. Once you finish the course, your period normally returns two to three days later.
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
Norethisterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Normally, a drop in progesterone levels triggers your period to start.
By taking Norethisterone, progesterone levels remain elevated, which delays the shedding of the womb lining and postpones your period. Once you stop taking the tablets, your period will usually begin within 2 to 4 days.
You should usually start taking Norethisterone 3 days before your expected period is due.
Starting treatment too late may reduce its effectiveness, so it is important to plan ahead whenever possible.
Most women can delay their period for up to 17 days by continuing to take Norethisterone as prescribed.
Your clinician will advise on the most appropriate treatment duration based on your circumstances.
Yes. Delaying a period for a holiday is one of the most common reasons women request Norethisterone treatment.
Many women choose period delay tablets to avoid menstruation during beach holidays, long-haul travel, cruises, or special trips abroad.
Yes. Period delay treatment is commonly used before weddings, honeymoons, and other special celebrations.
If you know the dates of your event, our clinicians can help determine whether Norethisterone is suitable for you.
Most women find that their period starts within 2 to 4 days of stopping treatment.
The exact timing can vary slightly between individuals.
No.
Norethisterone is not a contraceptive and does not prevent pregnancy.
You should continue to use your usual contraception throughout treatment if pregnancy prevention is required.
This depends on the type of contraception you use.
Women taking the progestogen-only pill may be able to use Norethisterone in certain circumstances.
Norethisterone is generally not prescribed alongside the combined contraceptive pill because alternative methods of delaying periods are usually available.
Our clinician will review your current contraception and advise on the most appropriate option.
No. Many women can access period delay treatment directly through our pharmacy service without needing a GP appointment.
Our clinicians can assess your suitability and provide treatment where appropriate.
Yes. Following a clinical assessment, suitable patients may be prescribed Norethisterone through our period delay service.
Our clinicians will review your answers to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate before supplying medication.
Once your assessment has been approved, treatment can usually be collected from your chosen pharmacy or delivered directly to your home, depending on the options available.
We recommend arranging treatment as early as possible to ensure you can start the medication at the correct time.
A simple guide to period delay treatment, how norethisterone works, and what to expect if you’re considering delaying your next period. Contents Why people choose to delay their period Can
A simple guide to how norethisterone delays your period, what happens in your body while taking it, and what to expect when treatment ends. Contents Understanding your normal menstrual cycle
A simple guide to how period delay treatment works alongside contraception, whether you can delay your period using your contraceptive pill, and when norethisterone may be suitable. Contents Are period
A simple guide to the menstrual cycle, the hormones that control your periods, and how period delay treatment works within the natural cycle. Contents What is the menstrual cycle? How
