1. Purpose
This policy outlines the criteria, process, and medical considerations for patients requesting assistance in delaying their menstrual period for personal reasons such as holidays, travel, or special events. Medications such as norethisterone can be used for this purpose but are not without potential risks. This policy ensures that such requests are handled appropriately while prioritising patient safety.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all patients registered at the practice seeking medical support to postpone menstruation through the use of hormonal medication.
3. Eligibility Criteria
Patients may be considered for a prescription to delay menstruation if:
They are aged 16 or over.
They are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
They have regular menstrual cycles.
They have no contraindications to taking norethisterone or similar hormones (e.g., history of thromboembolism, liver disease, hormone-sensitive cancers).
The request is made with sufficient notice (minimum 7 working days before intended travel or event)
Requests will be evaluated individually.
5. Medication Options
The most commonly prescribed medication is norethisterone, started 3 days before the expected period and continued until desired.
6. Responsibilities of the Patient
Norethisterone is not suitable for everyone. A full medical review is essential.
Side effects can include nausea, bloating, breast tenderness, and—in rare cases—more serious effects like blood clots.
This is a private request for convenience, not a medical necessity. The practice reserves the right to decline requests where it is not clinically appropriate.
Requests made at short notice may not be accommodated due to the need for a proper review.
Understand medication may not guarantee complete suppression of bleeding.
Repeat requests may prompt a review of suitability or a more permanent contraceptive strategy discussion.
7. Fees and Costs
A private prescription will be issued.
8. Limitations
Medication for period delay is not contraceptive.
Frequent use is not recommended and may require further evaluation.
The following patients will generally not be prescribed medication to delay menses:
Those with known contraindications to progestogens.
Those with a significant risk of thromboembolism.
Those with unexplained vaginal bleeding.
Patients requesting without sufficient notice for clinical review.
9. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or when clinical guidance on hormonal treatments is updated.