Speak with your gynaecologist if you want to delay your period for a particular event, such as a wedding or holiday. She may advise you to use a medicine containing a very small amount of oestrogen and gestagen (progestogen) at the time you expect your flow. This medication (mini-pill) is different from other birth control pills as it narrows the uterine line. Moreover, it also makes bleeding lighter and uneven.
It is suggested not to setback your period by more than a week or two. Pushing your date forward in this way may increase your risk of getting pregnant and the associated risks of unintended pregnancy. Another thing you need to consider is taking a pill in an unorganized manner can lead to high bleeding, which is sometimes worse than the usual flow. In addition, if you don’t take the pill regularly, you may experience bleeding, which may last long.
Norethisterone
This contraceptive pill is sometimes known as Diane-35 or Dianette®. It contains two hormones progestogen and oestrogen. Nevertheless, this drug can generally help-
- Relieve acne in women who also want contraception
- Push forward the menstrual date
- Address endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fibroids
- Act as emergency contraception if you have had exposed sex
Doctors often give this period delay pill to women after childbirth or miscarriage to impede their period. The medication influences the pituitary gland in the brain, which instructs the ovaries to discontinue making hormones (progesterone and oestrogen). When you take this pill, bleeding may occur at uneven gaps as women take the hormone every few days. As a result, the body has time to make a few more eggs and then stop doing it. The medicine can be helpful if you want to defer your menstruation date for a significant reason, such as a holiday or special occasion.
Norethisterone
Dosage
Women should take it every 2-3 days, relying upon the strength of the drug they use. You have to take the first tablet at the start of your menstrual date or within 5 days of your flow. However, if you cannot take it for some reason, get it as soon as you remember it. Remember, not to take two doses at the same time to balance the missed one.
How long can you delay your period with this medication?
This drug is a prescription-only pill. It can cause blood clots, heart attack, and stroke when taken for an extended time, probably more than 6 months. Women can also experience menopausal symptoms if they use this medicine for long. For that reason, gynaecologists suggest using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible period.
Are there any side effects?
Not every woman who uses norethisterone will develop aftermaths. Nevertheless, the following are some of the frequent or common undesired effects-
- Minor weight gain, sometimes associated with salt and water retention. It can lead to swelling in your feet and ankles.
- Pink tinge on the skin (erythema). Nevertheless, this aftermath may fade away within some days if you continue taking the tablets.
- Mood swings, such as despair, frustration, and feeling of anxiety.
Inform your doctor if you feel these symptoms or they trouble you while using the medication. A small percentage of women may also elevate the risk of thrombosis, a condition in which blood clot forms in a blood vessel. Thrombosis can obstruct circulation in the leg veins. As a result, the problem can cause symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or tenderness. Reach out to your GP immediately if you notice any of the symptoms.
There is also a threat of womb cancer in women using this pill for long, probably for 6 months or more. For this reason, your doctor may want to review this treatment after 3-6 months.
Can this medicine cause other severe side effects?
Other severe aftermaths can also take place when you delay your period with this drug. If you develop any of these side effects, contact your GP as immediately as possible-
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting lasts for about 10 weeks
- Throbbing headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vision problems
- Paralysis of part of the body
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling on the face and breathing problems
These symptoms can be critical. For the same reason, report your GP or healthcare professional as soon as possible if you develop them.
Who shouldn’t use norethisterone?
This medication is not suitable for every woman. Therefore, you should always consult your gynaecologist before using it. Women with the following health conditions should avoid this pill-
- Has a history of blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- Is sensitive to it, or any other component of this medicine
- Has a history of thrombosis (blood clots in veins) or thromboembolism (blood clots in the lungs), stroke, heart attack, or angina
- Suffering from breast cancer (currently active or having previously spread therefrom)
- Has severe liver or kidney disease
- Are likely to become pregnant during treatment with the pill
How to delay your periods naturally?
Apple cider vinegar
ACV is not just good for fat loss and blood sugar. However, it is also a well-working home remedy to postpone your monthly date. Apple cider Vinegar does not only push your menstrual date. Nevertheless, it can also ease off the irritating symptoms and blood flow. This can setback the periods for about a week.
- Add 3 teaspoons of ACV to a glass of water.
- Have it thrice in a day for about 7 days.
If this does not work for you, you can consult your gynaecologist or seek an online doctor consultation for a medication.
Gram lentils
Lentils can help defer your periods. You can use the powder as a soup base by mixing a sufficient amount of warm water into it. Have this soup in the morning or an empty stomach for about 7 weeks before your predictable date.
Cucumber
The cooling properties of cucumber can push your menstrual date forward. You can consume it for around a week before you are expecting the flow.
Watermelon
Like cucumber, watermelon too has frosty characteristics, which can help delay your period. Excess body warmth can cause you to have your flow early. On the other hand, consuming watermelon can relieve it.
