Period Delay

Norethisterone is a prescription only medication available through Smart Chemist to delay your period for up to 17 days. Norethisterone should be started 3 days prior to your period being due, and can be continued for a maximum of 20 days, after which you will normally begin your period 2-3 days after having stopped taking Norethisterone.

Norethisterone is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It works by mimicking the effects of naturally occuring progesterone in your body, causing the shedding of the lining of your womb to be delayed, and therefore delaying your period.

It is important to note that Norethisterone 5mg is not a contraceptive and will not prevent unwanted pregnancy.

For the majority of women in the UK, occasional use of Norethisterone for period delay is safe. However, regular use is not advised. It should also be noted that Norethisterone 5mg, used for period delay, is not a contraceptive and should not be used as a method to prevent pregnancy.

Please note that Norethisterone is not safe for everyone to use, particularly women who have a history or family history of thrombosis (blood clots). IAlways check with a doctor prior to beginning use of Norethisterone. In order to utilise the Period Delay clinic through Smart Chemist, you will be required to complete an online questionnaire which will then be assessed by one of our Doctors, to ensure clinical appropriateness and suitability of treatment.