Symptoms
- Not a disease — a planned delay request
- Timing depends on cycle day when starting
- Breakthrough bleeding possible if started late
Period delay: symptoms, causes & treatment
Prescription tablets can safely postpone a period for holidays, exams or events — if started at the right time in your cycle.
Editorial information by Kaiser Khan. Not clinically reviewed.
Why it happens
Natural progesterone withdrawal triggers a period. Delay tablets mimic pregnancy hormones to postpone shedding of the womb lining.
Treatment
Prescription progesterone tablets taken 3 days before your period is due can delay bleeding for up to 17 days.
Self-care that helps
Know your usual cycle length; start on time; expect a withdrawal bleed when you stop; not suitable for everyone.
When to get help
Missed periods when not delaying, pregnancy possibility, or heavy bleeding after stopping — seek advice.
Available without prescription