Period Delay Service Online

Period delay is a short-term service that allows you to postpone your menstrual period for up to 17 days. This is commonly requested ahead of holidays, weddings, sporting events, religious occasions such as Hajj or Umrah, or any situation where managing the timing of your cycle matters.

At Weldricks Pharmacy, our pharmacists are trained to assess your suitability and supply norethisterone 5mg tablets under a Patient Group Direction (PGD), meaning you don't need to visit your GP first.

Norethisterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Normally, a drop in progesterone levels triggers the womb lining to shed — causing your period. Norethisterone keeps those levels artificially elevated, preventing the shedding and delaying your period for as long as you continue taking the tablets.

Once you stop taking them, your period will usually begin within 2 to 3 days.

Start taking one 5mg tablet three times a day, beginning three days before your period is due. Continue for as long as you need to delay, up to a maximum of 17 days of delay (20 days of tablets total). Try to take each tablet at regular intervals — roughly every 8 hours — and do not skip doses.

If you need a delay of fewer than 17 days, simply stop taking the tablets earlier. Your period will follow within 2 to 3 days.

Important: norethisterone is not a contraceptive. It will not prevent pregnancy, so continue using your regular contraception throughout.

This service is available to women of childbearing potential aged 16 to 55 who are not currently using any form of hormonal contraception (including combined pills, patches, rings, the implant, injection, or hormonal coil).

During your consultation, our pharmacist will ask about your medical history and any current medications to ensure norethisterone is safe for you.

Norethisterone is not suitable for everyone. You will not be eligible if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a personal or strong family history of blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism), have a history of liver disease, certain cancers, or migraine with aura, or if you are taking certain medications including anticoagulants or enzyme-inducing drugs. A full assessment will be carried out at consultation.

If you are not eligible, our pharmacist will advise you and signpost you to an appropriate alternative, such as your GP or an NHS sexual health clinic.

Most people tolerate norethisterone well for the short periods it is used. Some women experience spotting or irregular bleeding during the course, as well as breast tenderness, headache, or nausea. These effects are usually mild and resolve once treatment ends.

Seek medical advice urgently if you experience any signs of a blood clot — such as painful swelling in the leg, sudden chest pain, or shortness of breath — and stop taking the tablets immediately.

Your consultation with one of our pharmacists is quick, confidential, and straightforward. We will ask about your medical history, current medications, allergies, and the reason for the delay. If norethisterone is appropriate for you, we can supply up to 60 tablets (sufficient for a 17-day delay) immediately. With your consent, we may also inform your GP of the treatment supplied.