Period Delay Tablets
Prescription norethisterone tablets to delay your period — ideal for travellers who want to manage their cycle around holidays, religious events, or active itineraries.
Overview
Many women choose to delay their period when travelling — whether heading to the beach, undertaking a long-haul adventure, going on pilgrimage, or simply wanting to avoid the discomfort and inconvenience of menstruating whilst abroad.
At Gloucester Travel Clinic, our pharmacists can provide a prescription for norethisterone — a prescription-only medicine (POM) commonly used to delay menstruation. The service is straightforward, confidential, and available with a same-week appointment at our Hucclecote pharmacy locations.
Norethisterone is a synthetic progestogen that works by maintaining the lining of the womb, preventing your period from starting. Your period will typically arrive 2–3 days after you stop taking the tablets.
How It Works
Norethisterone is taken as a tablet, usually starting 3 days before your period is expected. You continue taking the tablets for as long as you wish to delay — up to a maximum of 17 days.
- Take one 5 mg tablet three times a day
- Start 3 days before your expected period
- Continue for up to 17 days maximum
- Your period will usually arrive within 2–3 days of stopping
Norethisterone is not a contraceptive. It does not protect against pregnancy. If you require contraception, please speak to your GP or sexual health clinic.
Pricing
| Medication | Norethisterone 5 mg tablets |
| Starting price | From £30 |
| Prescription required | Yes — issued by our pharmacist following a consultation |
| Consultation | Included in your appointment |
Price may vary depending on the duration of delay required and the quantity of tablets prescribed. Our pharmacist will confirm the cost at your appointment.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Norethisterone is suitable for most healthy adult women. It is commonly used by women:
- Travelling on beach, diving, or swimming holidays
- Undertaking Hajj, Umrah, or other religious pilgrimages
- Going on adventure, trekking, or safari trips where facilities are limited
- Attending a wedding, sporting event, or other significant occasion
- Travelling on long-haul flights or cruises
Who Should Not Take Norethisterone?
Norethisterone may not be suitable if you have or have had:
- A history of blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism)
- Severe liver disease
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Certain types of hormone-sensitive cancers
- Known allergy to norethisterone or any tablet ingredients
Our pharmacist will review your medical and medication history before prescribing to ensure it is safe for you. If norethisterone is unsuitable, we can advise on alternative options.
Side Effects
Most women tolerate norethisterone well. Possible side effects include:
- Breast tenderness or discomfort
- Nausea
- Headache
- Breakthrough bleeding or spotting (light bleeding whilst taking the tablets)
- Mood changes
Side effects are usually mild and temporary. Speak to our pharmacist if you have concerns.