Most women experience a monthly menstrual cycle. However, there are times when some women want to postpone their period for certain reasons, such as traveling or important events. Is this safe to do? And how? Find out how in the following article.

Various Ways to Delay Menstruation

Following are several methods that can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle.

1. Taking Norethisterone

Norethisterone is a drug that contains the artificial hormone progesterone and is often used to delay menstruation. As the menstrual cycle approaches, levels of the hormone progesterone in the body tend to decrease, causing the lining of the uterus to shed as a sign that menstruation is coming.

By taking norethisterone, the uterine lining can be maintained, and menstruation can be avoided until this drug is stopped. Generally, the doctor will prescribe norethisterone to be taken three times a day, starting 14 days before the expected arrival of menstruation or on day 5 of the menstrual cycle. Menstruation will usually return after 2-3 days after stopping taking this drug.

2. Oral Contraceptive Options

Taking birth control pills is another option to delay menstruation. It usually consists of 28 tablets, with the first 21 pills containing the hormone progesterone (active pills) and the remaining 7 pills without the hormone (empty pills). To delay menstruation, doctors usually recommend taking only active pills, so empty pills are not needed. The menstrual cycle will return to normal after stopping the use of birth control pills.

3. Using IUD 

Contraception Intrauterine device (IUD) can also be used to delay menstruation, especially for women with heavy bleeding during menstruation. There are two types of IUDs, those that contain the hormone progesterone and those that do not. To delay menstruation, an IUD with the hormone progesterone will be installed by a doctor. It has been shown to reduce the frequency and duration of menstruation, making it perfect for treating prolonged menstruation.

4. Injectable birth control options

Another way to delay menstruation is to use injectable contraception. The working principle is almost the same as birth control pills, but birth control injections are carried out every 90 days by a doctor. Although excessive bleeding may occur at the start of use, this condition usually subsides, and the effect of delaying menstruation appears.

5. Vaginal Ring 

Vaginal rings, made of flexible plastic, can also be used to delay menstruation. This tool contains hormones similar to birth control pills, with a similar way of working. The vaginal ring is placed directly in the vagina and is only effective for 21 days. To delay menstruation, the ring needs to be replaced every 21 days, this action is generally carried out by a doctor or midwife to ensure its effectiveness.

Although the methods above are generally safe for delaying menstruation, some women need to be careful. Women with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or a history of taking blood thinning drugs, must choose a method that suits their condition to avoid side effects.

Consultation with a doctor is highly recommended before trying to delay menstruation. The doctor will help you choose the safest method with minimal side effects, and according to your health condition.

References:

https://www.alodokter.com/5-cara-menunda-haid-yang-ampuh

https://hellosehat.com/wanita/menstruasi/cara-menunda-haid/

https://www.klikdokter.com/gaya-hidup/perawatan-wanita/cara-menunda-haid-yang-efektif-dan-aman