Travel, summer vacations, religious rituals, and other reasons may lead you to consider delaying your period so it doesn't interfere with your plans and activities. But what is the best way to postpone your period safely? Can it be done naturally? This article will cover the details.

How to Delay Your Period?

The best method to delay your period depends on factors such as the reason for delaying, the duration you want to postpone, and other personal considerations. Therefore, consulting a specialist is essential to determine the most effective and suitable method for you.

If you are already taking hormonal contraceptive pills, a doctor may adjust your pill schedule to delay your period. Alternatively, specific pills may be prescribed if you are not currently using birth control.

1. Primolut N (Norethisterone) 

If you are not already using hormonal birth control, your doctor may recommend norethisterone (Primolut N or its generic alternatives) to delay your period. This medication is a synthetic progestin.

How to Use:
To delay your period, take 3 pills of norethisterone daily (one pill every 8 hours), starting 3–4 days before your expected period. Continue taking the pills until you are ready for your period to resume. Typically, your period will start within 1–3 days after stopping the medication. (1)

2. Combined Birth Control Pills

If you are using combined contraceptive pills (containing both estrogen and progestin), such as Marvelon or its alternatives, you can control your period timing by adjusting the schedule.

How to Use:
Combined pills typically include 21 active pills and 7 inactive ones (or some versions may not include inactive pills). Bleeding usually occurs during the fourth week (when inactive pills are taken). Your doctor may recommend continuing with active pills after finishing your current pack, skipping the inactive pills. This prevents the bleeding from occurring. (2)

Can You Delay Your Period Naturally?

There is no guaranteed or scientifically proven natural way to delay your period. Unlike birth control pills, which rely on hormonal intervention, natural methods tend to have limited effectiveness and vary from person to person.

Some commonly suggested natural methods include consuming apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, lentils, or engaging in intense exercise before your period. However, these methods are not reliable. (3)

Can You Stop Your Period Once It Starts?

There is no way to stop your period once bleeding begins. If you want to delay your period, you must prepare in advance and begin the necessary steps a few days before your expected period. (4)

Are There Risks to Delaying Your Period?

Delaying your period using medications like Primolut N or combined birth control pills is generally safe when done occasionally and under medical supervision. However, repeated or prolonged delays can lead to hormonal imbalances and potential side effects. (2)

Short-Term Side Effects:

• Spotting or Breakthrough Bleeding: Light, irregular bleeding may occur, especially with continuous use of hormonal pills.
• Mood Changes: Some people may experience mood swings or irritability.
• Nausea or Headaches: Hormonal changes may cause mild nausea or headaches.
• A temporary hormonal imbalance: Possible irregular periods for a while after stopping the pills.
• Fluid Retention: Hormonal medications can lead to temporary water retention.
• Breast Tenderness: Elevated hormone levels may cause breast sensitivity or discomfort.

Long-Term Effects:

Occasionally delaying your period a few times a year is unlikely to cause significant harm. However, prolonged use without medical oversight may result in unpredictable cycles and other hormonal side effects.

Who Should Be Cautious?

People with the following conditions should exercise caution:

• History of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Migraine with aura
• Hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer

Tips for Safe Use:

• Use hormonal methods to delay your period only occasionally and under medical supervision.
• Avoid unapproved herbal remedies or over-the-counter treatments without consulting a doctor, as their safety and efficacy are not guaranteed.
• Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule to minimize risks.

Conclusion

The safest and most effective way to delay your period is by using birth control pills under medical supervision. This ensures a safe and reliable experience.

Thinking about delaying your period? Our Obstetrics and Gynecology Department is here to help. Consult our specialists for safe and personalized advice tailored to your needs. 

References

1. Medicines - Norethisterone 5mg_Leaflet_104373-9
2. Mayo Clinic - Delaying your period with hormonal birth control
3. Healthline - Are Natural Remedies Effective for Delaying Your Period?
4. Medical news today - Can a person stop their period for the night?