Delaying Menstruation – Policy for Patients Requesting Menstrual Delay for Holidays or Events
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.
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.
Responsibilities of the Patient
This medication is not suitable for everyone. A 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. The decision on whether or not to prescribe is based on the individual clinician’s assessment at the time.
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.
Fees and Costs
The Practice does not prescribe Norethisterone or similar medication on the NHS to delay periods for non-medical reasons. A private prescription can be issued which means the patient would need to pay for the dispensing of the medication and the full cost of the medication.
Limitations
Medication for period delay is not a 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.
Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or when clinical guidance on hormonal treatments is updated.
Next review due: 27 May 2027