Delaying Periods – Information

Provera medication is an unlicensed medication for the purpose of delaying periods, however it is widely used for this reason and is considered safer than alternatives like norethisterone. 

‍Provera tablets can be bought from a number of online pharmacies without needing a GP prescription, these include:

Boots Pharmacy

Superdrug Pharmacy

PLEASE NOTE only one supply is allowed every 6 months.

Common side effects of Provera include
‍
Increased appetite; cervical abnormalities; constipation; fatigue; headache; hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating); hypersensitivity; nervousness; oedema(swelling); tremor; vomiting

Uncommon but serious side effects include
‍
blood clots. There is a small risk it may worsen pre-existing medical conditions.

If you take this medication and begin to experience side effects we recommend that you stop taking it and consult with a health professional.

‍This medication will not be suitable for you if you have any of the following:

• Previous ALLERGY to Provera other progesterone containing medications
• Currently pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant (including via a fertility clinic)
• If you have severe heart, liver or kidney disease, or end stage renal disease requiring dialysis
• If you have high blood pressure
• If you have or have you previously had breast cancer?
• If you have anti-phospholipid syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis or SLE, or any other condition which increases the risk of blood clots.
• If you are currently using contraception including the combined pill, mini pill, injection, implant or patch.
• If you have irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods
• ·      If you had another supply of Provera OR Norethisterone (in any strength or formulation) within the past 6 months

This medication needs to be started 3 days before your period is due and continued until you want your period to start. There is a risk that the medication even if taken correctly may not work and there is risk that you may bleed or have some spotting.