When it comes to managing your reproductive health, it’s easy to confuse the different types of hormonal tablets available – especially when you’re in a rush or trying to plan around an important event. One of the most common mix-ups we see at onlinemeds is between period delay pills and emergency contraception. Although both involve hormones and tablets, they serve very different purposes.

This guide will explain the key differences between these medications, helping you understand when to use each one and what they do. Whether you’re trying to delay your period for a holiday or dealing with unprotected sex, knowing which option is right can save time, stress, and discomfort.

What Is a Period Delay Pill?

A period delay pill is a type of hormonal medication used to temporarily delay menstruation. The most commonly prescribed period delay tablet in the UK is norethisterone, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. When taken correctly, it can postpone your period for up to 17 days.

Norethisterone works by keeping progesterone levels high, which prevents the lining of the womb from shedding. Once you stop taking the tablets, hormone levels drop and your period will usually begin within 2–3 days.

Key Facts:

• –> Must be started 3 days before your period is due

• –> Typically taken three times a day for the duration you wish to delay

• –> Does not prevent pregnancy

• –> Commonly used for holidays, events, exams, or religious reasons

At onlinemeds, we offer discreet online consultations to help you access period delay tablets safely and quickly, without needing to see your GP in person.

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception, often called the “morning after pill”, is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g. a missed pill or broken condom). There are two main types available in the UK:

1. Levonorgestrel (e.g. Levonelle) – Most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex

2. Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) – Effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex

Emergency contraceptive pills work by delaying ovulation so that an egg isn’t released. This prevents fertilisation if sperm is already present in the body. They do not cause abortion and will not be effective if ovulation has already occurred.

Key Facts:

• –> Must be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex

• –> Does not protect against STIs

• –> Not a long-term form of contraception

• –> Can be accessed from pharmacies, GPs, and online services like onlinemeds

How Are They Different?

Although both norethisterone and emergency contraception involve hormones, their purpose, timing, and effects are completely different.

Can You Use Them Together?

In general, you wouldn’t use both a period delay pill and emergency contraception at the same time, as they serve separate functions. If you’re using norethisterone and then have unprotected sex, you’ll still need emergency contraception because norethisterone does not prevent pregnancy.

Likewise, if you’ve taken the morning after pill, your cycle may be disrupted for the next month, which can make planning a period delay less predictable. In such cases, it’s best to consult a clinician – something we’re happy to help with at onlinemeds.

Which One Do I Need?

If you’re:

• –> Travelling

• –> Attending an important event

• –> Fasting for religious reasons

• –> Wanting to avoid a period during exams or sport

…then a period delay pill like norethisterone is likely your best option.

If you’re:

• –> Worried about unprotected sex

• –> Had a contraceptive failure

• –> Didn’t take your regular pill on time

…then emergency contraception is the correct and urgent choice.

Simple and Discreet Care

At onlinemeds, we know reproductive health can be confusing – especially with similar-sounding treatments available. That’s why we aim to make accessing safe, effective solutions as simple and discreet as possible. Whether you need a period delay pill for a planned event or emergency contraception after an unexpected situation, our private consultation service is quick, confidential, and supported by UK-registered clinicians.

Reach out today to find out more.

Written by Gavin Cheema, Superintendent Pharmacist. GPhC Number: 2214516

With over eight years of experience in community, hospital, and online pharmacies, Gavin is a highly skilled Clinical Pharmacist and expert in UK pharmacy regulation. He has a deep understanding of medicines, compliance, and patient safety, ensuring onlinemeds operates to the highest standards while providing safe and accessible care.