Period Delay Medications Policy

Important Update: Period Delay Medications

At Giffords Surgery, we prioritise the comprehensive health and wellbeing of our patients. While we continue to provide a wide range of women’s health services—including assessment and treatment for menstrual problems such as painful or heavy periods—we do not prescribe medications, including Norethisterone, for the purpose of delaying periods for holidays, events, or personal preference.

In addition, Giffords Surgery does not issue period delay medication to patients under the age of 16 under any circumstances.

For patients aged 16 and over seeking period delay medication, Norethisterone may be available directly from participating pharmacies following an assessment by a pharmacist. We recommend contacting your local pharmacy for further advice regarding suitability and availability.

Please note that Giffords Surgery does not endorse any specific pharmacy or provider. However, several accredited healthcare organisations also offer period delay services.

Menstrual Suppression Medication in Patients Under 16

Policy statements
This GP surgery does not prescribe medication for the purpose of delaying, suppressing, or stopping menstruation in patients under the age of 16.

Position
Requests for menstrual suppression in this age group will not be assessed for prescribing within the practice.

 Procedure

• Such requests will not be actioned, prescribed, or initiated in primary care.
• Patients and/or parents/carers will be advised that this is not provided by the practice.
• Where appropriate, general advice may be given regarding normal menstrual health and self-care measures.
• If there are significant menstrual concerns or underlying medical issues, patients may be advised to seek specialist paediatric or gynaecology services via appropriate referral routes.