Data from Chemist4U has revealed purchases of Norethisterone and Mexdroxyprogesterone doubled in January compared to the previous year, as women turned to temporarily delaying their period ahead of the end of winter.
The figures were revealed after Google searches for “how to delay my period” jumped 24% the week before valentine’s day, highlighting how women are taking control of their own cycles to avoid inconvenient timing.
Sales of short-term period delay treatments surge, pharmacy data reveals (Image: Newsquest)
Pharmacist Hanna Yusuf, a women’s health expert at Chemist4U outlines how period delay treatments work and the practical way that women can use them.
She said: “Periods can be unpredictable, and their timing isn’t always ideal. For those who want to delay natural bleeding for a short time, period delay medication may be an option.
“Period delay involves using a prescription-only medication to temporarily postpone your period. It’s generally a safe short-term option that can help you avoid bleeding during a trip, a big event like a wedding, or any time it would be particularly disruptive.
“Postponing your period can give you back a sense of control over your body, help manage any period related pain, and give you the freedom to focus when you most need it. It can also offer emotional relief, helping you feel more confident and prepared for whatever you’ve got planned, without the worry of cramps, leaks, or fatigue getting in the way.
“Delaying or skipping a period is generally safe when done correctly, and your period typically resumes within 2-3 days after stopping the tablets. The important thing is to use approved methods and speak to a healthcare professional first so they can help you can choose the right option for your individual circumstances.”
Hanna shares her practical guidance on delaying a period safely:
1. Plan ahead
· You usually need to start tablets at least three days before your period is due
· Track your cycle for at least two to three months before you want to delay your period, so you can predict dates more accurately
· If your cycles are irregular, discuss timing early with a healthcare professional and allow for a margin of error in case your period is due sooner than expected
2. Know your options
· If you’re not on hormonal contraception, Norethisterone, is the primary medication prescribed for period delay because it’s highly effective and acts quickly; medroxyprogesterone may be another option, but is usually reserved for those who have a higher risk of blood clots
· Both medications work by maintaining your progesterone levels, preventing your womb lining from shedding until you stop taking them
· If you’re on the combined contraceptive pill, you may be able to delay bleeding by skipping the break but always check with your prescriber first
3. Check eligibility
· Period delay treatments aren’t suitable for everyone and are prescribed based on individual risk factors
· For example, they may not be appropriate if you have certain medical conditions which may put you at risk of complications such as blood clots.
· Other factors, such as smoking status, migraine history, blood pressure, and personal or family history of clotting disorders, will also be assessed
Hanna concludes: “While it’s understandable that people want more control over when their period arrives, particularly around important events or travel, it’s essential to approach period delay safely. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting treatment, make sure it’s suitable for you, and follow the instructions in your patient information leaflet carefully.”