30/07/2026
If a woman takes medicines to delay her period (such as norethisterone or other hormonal tablets), they are generally safe when prescribed by a doctor for short-term use, but they can cause temporary side effects.
Common effects on the body include:
Irregular spotting or breakthrough bleeding
Delayed or earlier-than-expected next period
Bloating
Nausea
Breast tenderness
Headache
Mood changes or irritability
Mild weight gain due to fluid retention
Rare but serious risks (more likely in women with certain medical conditions):
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
High blood pressure
Liver problems (uncommon)
These medicines should be used only after medical advice, especially if the woman:
Is pregnant or may be pregnant
Has a history of blood clots
Has liver disease
Has certain types of migraine
Has hormone-sensitive cancers
Menstruation delay risks effects health