There are reasons why some women may wish to delay their period to avoid bleeding at inconvenient times such as sporting competitions, beach holidays or important events such as weddings.  With a bit of planning, it is possible to delay your period.  This process of menstrual manipulation or menstrual suppression can be achieved using medication.

Click to view Health Express video on How to delay your period

Treatment Options

The treatment options depend whether you are currently taking birth control pills or not.  CONSULT your doctor on the duration and dosage suitable for your case.

1. If you ARE NOT taking any birth control pills

a) NORETHINDRONE

You should 3 tablets of Norethindrone (Norethisterone) a day, starting 3-4 days before your period is expected to begin.  You may take up to a maximum of 20 days which will delay your period for 17 days.  Once you stop taking the medicine, your period should begin within 2-3 days.  Although the medication is a contraceptive, it is advisable to use another form of contraception such as condom to prevent pregnancy.

b) PROVERA

You should take start Provera (Medroxyprogesterone) approximately 2-3 days before your period is expected to begin.  The number of tablets you need depends on how long you intend to delay your period.  You may take 10 mg 2-3 times a day depending on your tolerance towards the medication. Once you stop taking the medicine, your period should begin within 2-3 days. 

2. If you ARE taking birth control pills

If you use the combined Progesterone-Oestrogen pill as birth control, you can delay your period by skipping the placebo pills (the 7-day break when you typically bleed) and beginning a new pack of pills right away.  (Note: If you are taking a Progestogen-Only contraceptive pill, you cannot delay your period by taking 2 packets back-to-back.  You need to consult your doctor for advice.

Click to view Howcast video on How to stop your period while on Birth Control Pill

Side effects

There will be some side effects such as nausea, headache, breast tenderness, acne, fluid retention and mood changes.  Those with a history of blood clotting disorders such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) should avoid taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of blood clots.

Consult your Doctor or Pharmacist for treatment advice

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If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.