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Norethisterone on the NHS

Approved by our Clinical team | Apr 3, 2020

We understand that if you experience heavy periods you’re probably searching for a treatment that will ease your symptoms. During your menstrual cycle the amount of bleeding you have does vary, however if you are experiencing excessive bleeding that seriously bothers you then read on to find out how you can ease your periods.

Is there a cure for heavy periods?

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There is no outright cure for heavy periods, however there are a number of medications that you can try to alleviate your symptoms and ease your discomfort. It’s important to remember that everyone is different and one medicine may work for other women you know but not yourself and vice versa. If you are living with heavy periods you can speak to your GP or a nurse at your local sexual health clinic who will be able to advise you on the treatments available to you.

How can Norethisterone help women with heavy periods?

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Norethisterone is a hormonal treatment which is a type of man-made progestogen. It can be used to treat heavy periods by preventing the womb lining from growing quickly. It comes in tablet form and is to be taken orally from days 5 to day 26 of your menstrual cycle. The first day of your cycle is the first day of your period. It can reduce heavy bleeding by more than 80%, however it can also cause weight gain, tender breasts and short-term acne.

Can you get Norethisterone on the NHS?

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Yes Norethisterone is available on the NHS; however you will need a prescription from your GP to get Norethisterone tablets. You can also use our Online Doctor service to get your prescription of Norethisterone, you can complete a confidential consultation online and pick up your tablets from your local LloydsPharmacy.

For your safety your height, weight and blood pressure may need to be checked before you can start taking your tablets. This is to make sure that the treatment is suitable for you; your check-up will take place in one of our discreet consultation rooms.

Will Norethisterone stop me from getting pregnant?

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No, however it may affect your ability to conceive if you are trying to get pregnant. It is likely to affect your ovulation and can stop you from ovulating.

What are the side effects of Norethisterone?

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As with taking any form of medication there is the potential that you can experience side effects.

Side effects include but are not limited to:

Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach ache
Acne
Changes to your sex drive
Breakthrough bleeding
Breast tenderness

Speak to your GP and always read the leaflet included in the pack before you begin taking this medication.

Why do I need a medical check-up?

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To make sure that it is safe for you to take Norethisterone your doctor during an appointment will want to check that you are physically able to take this medicine, by measuring your height, weight and your blood pressure.

Similarly if you decide to order through our Online Doctor one of our expert pharmacists at your local LloydsPharmacy might wish to take your blood pressure, measure your height and weight. Your details will be completely confidential and will help our pharmacist determine if this medication is right for you.