How do Medications to Delay Menstruation Work?
When it comes to managing a delayed menstrual period, medications like norethisterone can be quite effective. These tablets to stop periods work by modifying your hormone levels. Typically, your menstrual cycle is regulated by a balance of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, which control the thickening and eventual shedding of the uterine lining. As your cycle progresses and progesterone levels naturally decline, your body signals the shedding of this lining, leading to your period.
Norethisterone alters this hormonal equilibrium. By introducing an external source of progesterone, it essentially tricks your body into preserving a thicker uterine lining, thus delaying menstruation.
When Will My Period Start After Taking Norethisterone?
To effectively delay your period using norethisterone, it’s essential to start the medication about three days before your expected period. This timing allows the drug to adjust your hormone levels sufficiently to prevent the lining from shedding, which in turn delays your period.
For example, if your period usually starts on the 15th and you’re heading out of town on the 1st, you don’t need to start norethisterone weeks in advance. Simply begin taking it around the 12th, three days before your expected period.
Once you discontinue norethisterone, your period should commence within 2-3 days. However, if it doesn’t start after 5 days, you should consult your GP immediately. If you need to delay menstruation for more than 16 days, you will need to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
In summary, if you’re asking “why is my period late?” or looking for ways on how to delay your period, norethisterone can be a viable option.