When planning a special occasion, travelling, or managing a busy lifestyle, many women consider using a pill to delay periods for a holiday or important events. While period delay pills are a convenient solution for managing your cycle, women over the age of 40 often have additional concerns about whether these medicines are safe for them.
In this blog, we’ll explore how period delay medication works, the potential risks for women in their 40s, and what alternatives may be worth considering.
How Do Period Delay Medicines Work?
Period delay tablets, such as those containing norethisterone, work by temporarily altering hormone levels. They increase progesterone in the body, preventing the natural drop in hormone levels that triggers menstruation.
By taking the tablets a few days before your expected period, you can safely delay bleeding until you stop the course. This makes them a popular option for women who need a pill to stop periods for holiday or important life events.
Are Period Delay Medicines Safe for Women Over 40?
For most healthy women over 40, period delay pills are generally safe, but there are a few important factors to consider:
1. Increased Risk of Blood Clots
Age is a factor in blood clot risk. While norethisterone is not the same as the combined contraceptive pill, it can slightly increase the risk of clotting, especially if you:
- Smoke
- Are overweight
- Have a family history of clotting disorders
2. Existing Health Conditions
Women in their 40s are more likely to experience conditions such as:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular issues
If you have any of these, your doctor may recommend avoiding period delay medication.
3. Perimenopause Considerations
Many women over 40 are approaching perimenopause. Hormonal fluctuations are common, and adding synthetic hormones may sometimes increase side effects such as mood changes, headaches, or breast tenderness.
Side Effects to Be Aware Of
While most side effects are mild, it’s important to be aware of possible reactions:
- Nausea or bloating
- Changes in mood
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or irregular bleeding after stopping the tablets
If you notice severe headaches, chest pain, or leg swelling, you should seek medical help immediately.
Alternatives to Period Delay Pills
If you’re unsure whether period delay pills are suitable for you, there may be other options:
- Adjusting the contraceptive pill pack (if you already use it)
- Consulting a pharmacist for tailored hormone management
- Exploring non-hormonal methods, such as planning with cycle tracking apps
Key Takeaway
For many women over 40, using a pill to delay periods for a holiday is a safe and practical option, provided there are no underlying health conditions or risk factors. However, it’s always best to consult a pharmacist or GP before starting any course of period delay medication, especially if you are over 40 or have existing health concerns.
At the end of the day, period delay pills can offer flexibility and peace of mind, but safety should always come first.
