Delaying Your Period for Holidays or Events
Managing Period Delay Without a GP Appointment
If you’re planning a holiday, exam, or special occasion and would like to delay your period, this can often be done safely using a short course of hormonal medication.
When Can I Use This?
Period delay medication can be helpful if:
- You are not currently using hormonal contraception (e.g., the pill, patch, ring).
- You want to delay your period by up to 17 days.
- You need a temporary delay — not a long-term contraceptive change.
If you are already on the contraceptive pill, you may be able to delay your period by continuing your pill pack — check with your pharmacist.
Where Should I Go?
You do not need a GP appointment for period delay.
Instead, you can speak to your local pharmacist, who can assess your suitability and provide a prescription-only medication (usually norethisterone). Unfortunately, this service is not available via your GP practice and patients will be directed to their nearest pharmacist.
More Information:
If you are planning a trip and think you may want to delay your period, please speak to your pharmacist at least 5–7 days before your expected period, as the medication needs to be started in advance.