Period delay
Pause your period. Not your plans.
Period delay tablets stop you from getting your period when you don’t want it – when you go on holiday or have to travel, for example.
Period delay tablets are taken as one tablet three times a day. For the tablets to work, you need to start taking them three days before your period is due to start. They’ll delay your period for three days after you take the last tablet.
Frequently asked questions
How do Period Delay Tablets work?
During a menstrual cycle, the levels of the hormone progesterone can fluctuate. Progesterone levels drop near the end of the menstrual cycle, causing the womb lining to break down. The lining is expelled in the form of a period. The active ingredient in period delay tablets mimics the naturally-occurring progesterone, indicating to the body that there is no need for a breakdown of the womb lining. This prevents ovulation and a period from occurring.
How do you take Period Delay Tablets?
For period delay treatment to work effectively, you will need to take one 5mg tablet three times a day. Start taking the tablets three days before you expect your period to start.
How quickly after stopping treatment will your period return?
Your period should usually return within 2-3 days after finishing your course of treatment.
What do you do if your period does not return after stopping treatment?
If your period does not return three days after finishing your course of treatment, contact a doctor straight away. You should not take period delay tablets for more than 17 days.
Who shouldn’t take Period Delay Tablets?
This treatment is not suitable for all women, so make sure to read this list or speak to a doctor before taking a dose.
You should not take this treatment if:
- You are allergic to any hormonal medication, or any of the ingredients of this treatment.
- You are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- You have ever experienced vaginal bleeding for which your doctor was unable to find a cause.
- You or a family member have ever experienced blood-clot related health issues, including deep vein thrombosis.
- You have ever experienced angina or a heart attack.
- You have liver problems.
- You have ever had a pregnancy in which you experienced jaundice, or an itchy rash known as pemphigoid gestationis on your abdomen.
- You have severe generalised itching over your whole body (known as pruritus).
- You have the rare inherited condition porphyria.
Can these tablets be used as contraceptives?
Period delay tablets will not stop you from getting pregnant, so do not use them as a contraceptive. Seek advice from your GP or pharmacist about a suitable alternative contraceptive.
Can you take Period Delay Tablets whilst pregnant or breastfeeding?
Talk to your doctor before starting the treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding as hormonal medicines can affect the development of your baby.
How do you store Period Delay Tablets?
These tablets should not be kept in temperatures above 25℃. The treatment should be kept in a cool, dark place to protect them from the light. Stop taking the treatment immediately if you notice any signs of discolouration on the tablets – they should be white in colour.
How do you dispose of this treatment?
If you need to discontinue your course of the treatment, do not throw away the tablets via wastewater or household waste. Instead, contact a pharmacist to advise you on how to correctly dispose of the tablets you are no longer using. This will help to protect the environment.
What if you forget a dose of Period Delay Tablets?
If you forget to take your dose of the treatment, take a tablet as soon as you remember and then continue taking your doses at normal times. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed tablet.
Treatments and prices
| Medication | Pack Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Period Delay Tablets | 30 tablets / 10 days | From £17.99 |
| Period Delay Tablets | 60 tablets / 20 days | From £26.99 |
| Period Delay Tablets | 90 tablets / 30 days | From £43.00 |
