There are moments in life when having your period is simple. inconvenient. Perhaps it’s a long-awaited vacation, your wedding day, or the day of a big test. Whatever the circumstance, the power to delay your period safely can be a lifesaver.
Two of the most frequently prescribed available in the UK are Utovlan and Primolut N, both popular for delaying periods. But what are the differences between them? Which one is better? And how do you know which is best for you?
Let’s break it down in plain language so you can make a well-informed decision and feel comfortable taking charge of your cycle.

What Are Utovlan and Primolut N?

Utovlan and Primolut N both have norethisterone in them, which is a synthetic substitute for the hormone progesterone. By keeping higher levels of the hormone in your system, these tablets suppress the sloughing off of the womb lining, which is actually what results in your period.

But although they contain the same active ingredient, there are differences in how they are prescribed, packaged, and recognised by brands.

Utovlan: The Popular Go-To

Utovlan is one of the most widely recognised brands for period delay in the UK. It’s often the first name you’ll hear when you ask your pharmacist or GP about delaying your cycle.

Pros of Utovlan:

• Widely available across pharmacies and online health providers like Hollowood Chemists.
• Usually prescribed at 5mg three times daily, starting 3 days before your expected period.
• Known for effective delay of up to 17 days when used as advised.
• Suitable for short-term use during travel or big events.

Things to Consider:

• Not suitable for everyone, especially if you have a history of blood clots, liver disease, or certain cancers.
• You might experience spotting or bloating in some cases.
• You’ll need a brief consultation before being prescribed – available easily via online pharmacy services.

Primolut N: The Trusted Alternative

Primolut N, too, has 5mg of norethisterone and functions similarly to Utovlan. It’s usually prescribed on the NHS and in private hospitals under its name, particularly when there is a preference for certain manufacturers.

Pros of Primolut N:

• Equally effective in delaying periods for short durations.
• Preferred by some patients who respond better to this specific brand.
• Commonly used in hormonal regulation, not just period delay, such as for endometriosis or irregular cycles.

Things to Consider:

• Like Utovlan, it must be taken three times daily and started 3 days in advance.
• It may be slightly more expensive depending on the source.
• It can cause mild side effects like nausea, headaches, or mood swings.

Utovlan vs Primolut N: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Utovlan	Primolut N
Active Ingredient	Norethisterone 5mg	Norethisterone 5mg
Dose	3x per day	3x per day
When to Start	3 days before period	3 days before period
Availability	Broadly available, especially online	Sometimes limited to certain pharmacies
Cost	Often more affordable	May vary slightly depending on brand

How to Decide Which Is Right for You

If you’re choosing between the two, it often comes down to availability, price, and personal preference. Both work similarly and have comparable success rates. That said, some people simply tolerate one better than the other. If you’ve tried Utovlan before and experienced unwanted side effects, switching to Primolut N could be worth discussing.

Still not sure? A brief visit to Hollowood Chemists’ pharmacist will enable you to select the most suitable one for your particular requirements, medical history, and lifestyle.

Safety First: When Not to Use Period Delay Tablets

Before starting any hormonal treatment, it’s essential to consider your medical history. You should avoid using norethisterone if you:

• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of thrombosis or stroke
• Suffer from liver disorders
• Have hormone-sensitive cancers (like breast or uterine cancer)
• Are allergic to norethisterone or any tablet ingredients

Always go through a professional consultation – even online – before starting the medication. Hollowood Chemists offers an easy-to-use online assessment, ensuring you’re safe and suitable for treatment.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Works for You

Whether you take Utovlan or Primolut N, the ultimate goal remains the same – taking charge of your body and life without distraction from your period.

Both are clinically reliable, well-tolerated, and straightforward to access via reputable UK pharmacies. If you want to postpone your cycle for a special event, a large trip, or peace of mind, either tablet might be your solution.

For personalised advice and quick, discreet delivery, go to Hollowood Chemists today. Because when it comes to your health, you have the right to make choices that work with your life, not against it.