Are Delaying Your Periods Using Different Methods A Good, Safe Idea?

Dr Suneeta Mittal, Director & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynecology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram tells HerZindagi that delaying your periods is not a good idea! It is not something which should be done because e it upsets the natural systems of the body. There are several ill effects associated with the delaying periods. Often women delay their periods if they are getting married, going on their honeymoon, going on a pilgrimage or a religious event, a sporting event, undergoing surgery, giving an important exam etc.

Technically speaking, there isn’t any one thing that cannot be done while one is on their periods. From intercourse to swimming anything is possible. However, sometimes cramps, mood swings and bloating can kill one’s enthusiasm and buzz. Additionally, menstrual bleeding is inconvenient and can be messy.

There are medicines that can be used to delay the periods. However, one should not self-medicate. Always take these medications after consulting a doctor. These medications can be taken four to five days before the period is due. This will delay the period. Once the desired activity has been completed, one can stop the medication and the period will start within a few days. Usually, there is no side effect on the fertility of the women or her cycle. Women who are already on contraceptive pills can just continue with a new pack without a break and take tablets until they wish to delay the cycle.

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Some side effects include mood disturbances and acne (skin eruptions). The woman should be counseled about these possible reactions because they might also spoil a honeymoon, and she might prefer a normal period. About 10 per cent of women may experience breakthrough bleeding (bleeding or spotting between periods).

Medically delaying periods can help manage various menstrual symptoms. It might be worth considering in cases with:

• A physical or mental disability that makes it difficult to use sanitary napkins or tampons.
• A condition worsened by menstruation, such as endometriosis or anemia.
• Breast tenderness, bloating or mood swings in the seven to 10 days before period.
• Heavy, prolonged, frequent or painful periods.

Delaying periods occasionally for the social responsibility is safe under medical supervision. There are several options and women need to know options and any potential risks or side effects associated with each treatment so that they take a conscious decision. It is contraindicated in women with disturbance of liver function and history of thrombo-embolic disease. Thrombo-embolic risk increases in women taking long haul flights or prolonged road journey. Women should also be aware that delaying periods will not offer contraceptive protection.