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In this article, we’ll be discussing a topic that concerns almost every woman – how to have your period later. Women’s menstrual cycles can be unpredictable and can interfere with their plans. While it may not be possible to stop periods altogether, there are ways to delay them. Here, we’ll explore some effective ways to have your period later, how to do it safely, and what to expect when delaying your period.
What is menstruation, and why do women experience it?
Menstruation is a natural biological process that occurs in females in which an unfertilized egg is shed along with the lining of the uterus. A menstrual cycle usually lasts 28 days, but it can vary between 21 to 35 days. Menstruation occurs when the egg is not fertilized, and the uterus lining is shed through the vagina.
What causes changes in the menstrual cycle?
There are several reasons why a woman’s menstrual cycle may change, some of them include:
- Stress
- Illness
- Medications
- Weight changes
- Menopause
- Pregnancy, and more.
What are the ways to have your period later?
A situation where you need to have your period delayed can arise in different scenarios. This can be due to a special event, such as a vacation or wedding, that coincides with your menstrual cycle. Here are ways to have your period later.
Use birth control pills
The use of birth control pills is perhaps the most popular method to delay your period. Birth control pills contain hormones that stop ovulation and thicken the mucus around the cervix. The pill is continuous for 21 days and followed by seven placebo pills or no pills. By skipping placebo pills and moving straight to the next pack, you can delay your period. Some birth control pills are specifically formulated for this purpose.
Use a menstrual cup
A menstrual cup is an alternative to pads and tampons. Since menstrual cups are reusable, there is no need to change them often. It can be left inside the body for up to 12 hours. Instead of letting the menstrual blood flow out, it is collected in the cup. When the cup is full, you can empty it, rinse it out and put it back for another 12 hours, thus allowing you to delay your period.
Take contraceptive injections
Contraceptive injections are hormonal birth control methods that can prevent pregnancy and delay periods. The injection is available only with a prescription from a healthcare provider, and it lasts for three months. This method is ideal for preventing pregnancy and delaying periods for three months.
Use a contraceptive patch
A contraceptive patch is another form of birth control that can help to delay periods. The patch contains hormones that stop ovulation and thicken mucus around the cervix. It is worn on the skin for a week, followed by a one week break before the next patch is applied. Applying patches continuously without taking the one week break can delay periods.
Use progesterone pills
Progesterone pills are another hormonal birth control method that can delay ovulation and postpone periods. The pills are taken daily, beginning 14 days before your expected period. However, there are some side effects such as mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating.
Is it safe to delay your period?
Delaying your period is entirely safe – as long as you do it right.
Follow recommended guidelines
Using hormonal medications to delay your period is not something to do without caution. Always follow the recommended guidelines of a qualified healthcare provider. Another critical thing to note is that delaying your period too often or over an extended period may lead to hormonal imbalances, which can have significant effects on your health.
Avoid self-medication
Self-medication is dangerous, and you should not resort to it to delay your period. Misusing medications can cause severe damage to your body, including blood clots and kidney problems. Always seek professional help if you want to delay your period.
What should I expect when delaying my period?
Delaying your period will result in your menstrual cycle being pushed back, and you can expect some changes in your body. Here are some things you can expect:
Spotting
Spotting is light bleeding, and it can occur when you delay your period. Spotting is normal and is not a cause for alarm. It usually disappears within a few days.
Bloating
Bloating is a common side effect of delaying menstruation. This occurs as the uterus continues to prepare for the period but cannot release it into the vagina. As a result, bloating and cramping may occur.
Breast tenderness
Breast tenderness can occur as a result of hormonal changes that occur when you delay your period. This is usually temporary and goes away when your period starts.
Mood swings
Mood swings are another common side effect when delaying your period. This can range from feelings of irritability to sadness. Mood swings are caused by the hormonal changes that come with menstruation.
Conclusion
Delaying your period is possible, but it’s important to proceed with caution. Hormonal birth control methods can be used to delay periods, and these medications should be taken with care by following recommended guidelines. Additionally, you should seek professional help when planning to delay your period.
- Q: Can delaying your period cause any health problems?
- A: Delaying your period is entirely safe – as long as you do it right. However, delaying your period over an extended period may lead to hormonal imbalances, which can have significant effects on your health.
- Q: What are some other natural ways to delay my period?
- A: There are currently no known natural ways to delay your period. Hormonal birth control methods, such as birth control pills, contraceptive patches, and injections, are the most common and effective ways to delay your period.
- Q: Can I have sex while taking hormonal medications to delay my period?
- A: Yes, hormonal medications do not prevent sexual intercourse.
References:
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/delay-period/
- https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-pill/how-do-i-use-the-birth-control-pill
- https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/menstrual-cup-period
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/delaying-your-period-for-vacation-906831