Have you ever wished to press pause on your period, just for a little while? Maybe you've got a beach holiday, a wedding, or a major presentation coming up, and you’re looking for a natural way to delay your period.
While it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your menstrual cycle, here are safe ways that some believe might help you postpone that time of the month.
Natural Remedies for Postponing Menstruation
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Apple Cider Vinegar
A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in water, taken daily, is one of the natural methods some swear by. However, there is no scientific proof of it. Most claims are anecdotal, meaning they are based on personal experiences, not research.
ACV is famous for its myriad health benefits, and some say it can even help delay your period, though the evidence is mostly anecdotal.
Caution: Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, and consuming it in large amounts can cause stomach upset, heartburn, and damage to the oesophagus.
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Gelatin
Dissolving a packet of gelatin in warm water and drinking it is an old wives' tale suggesting it can delay your period by a few hours. The science behind it is shaky, but if you're in a pinch, it might be worth a try!
Caution: Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, which might concern vegetarians, vegans, or those with dietary restrictions.
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Gram Lentils
Roast and grind some gram lentils into a fine powder and mix it into a soup or smoothie.
Some believe that this traditional remedy from South Asia can help postpone periods if consumed daily a week before the expected date. However, there is only anecdotal evidence to support the efficacy of gram lentils for period delays.
Caution: High fibre content can cause bloating, gas, and stomach cramps, especially if your body is not used to it.
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Lemon Juice
Lemons are rumoured to delay periods (not scientifically). Sipping on lemon juice (diluted with water, please!) is thought to help push back your cycle. The high acidity is believed by some to have an impact, though science hasn’t quite confirmed it.
Regardless, it’s a refreshing drink!
Caution: Lemon juice's high acidity can lead to stomach upset, heartburn, and erosion of tooth enamel if it is overconsumed.
Also Read: UTI and Menstrual Delays: Debunking the Myths and Understanding the Facts
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Citrus Juice
Citrus fruits like oranges are not only refreshing but are believed by some to delay menstruation. High levels of acidity in citrus juice can affect your menstrual cycle.
Drinking a glass of juice mixed with water might help you delay your period for a short while. Although the science behind it is questionable, it is worth giving a try!
Plus, it’s a fantastic vitamin C boost!
Caution: Excessive intake might cause gastrointestinal discomfort and increased acid reflux.
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Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon is a well-known spice with numerous health benefits, including its ability to affect menstrual flow. Drinking cinnamon tea daily a week before your expected period is believed to help delay your periods.
Most claims are anecdotal and are not supported by research but rather by personal experiences, so you have to try it and find out if it works for you!
Besides, it’s delicious and warming, perfect for cosy evenings!
Caution: While generally safe it can have possible allergic reactions, mouth sores, and an increased heart rate in high doses.
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Cucumber
Cucumbers are known for their cooling properties. Eating cucumbers or drinking cucumber juice might help delay your period by lowering your body temperature. This is particularly useful during those hot summer months when you’re trying to stay cool and collected.
Science doesn't back cucumber for delaying periods, but it surely cools you down on a hectic day.
Caution: Cucumbers have minimal risks, but excessive consumption might cause bloating and gas due to their high water content.
Also Read: Vaginal Itching Before Period: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Remedies
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Mustard Seeds
Mustard seeds may be small, but they pack a powerful punch.
Mixing powdered mustard seeds in milk or water and drinking it a few days before your period can potentially delay your cycle. Although this traditional remedy does not have any scientific proof, it is easy to prepare and can be an easy addition to your diet.
Caution: Consuming large quantities of mustard seeds can have the potential for heartburn, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps if taken in large amounts.
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Spice
Certain spices like turmeric, ginger, and fennel seeds are thought to have properties that can delay menstruation. These spices can be added to your daily diet or taken as supplements. They’re not just great for flavouring your food but might also help you manage your menstrual schedule.
Though there is no scientific evidence for delaying periods, it certainly can add more flavour to food.
Caution: Excessive use of certain spices can lead to gastrointestinal issues and possible interactions with medications.
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Watermelon
Watermelon, with its high water content and cooling effects, is another natural remedy believed to delay periods.
Eating watermelon or drinking its juice can help reduce body heat, which might, in turn, push back your menstrual cycle (most claims are anecdotal and lack scientific evidence).
But it’s a refreshing treat!
Caution: Possible bloating, diarrhoea, imbalance in potassium levels, and a spike in blood sugar levels, which is particularly concerning for diabetics.
Also Read: Spotting in Periods: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies
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Parsley
Parsley tea is a traditional but not scientific remedy used to regulate menstrual cycles. Drinking parsley tea made from fresh parsley leaves might help in delaying your period. Its mild and refreshing taste makes it a pleasant beverage to incorporate into your daily routine.
Caution: Consuming large quantities of parsley can lead to uterine contractions.
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Raspberry
Raspberry leaves are known for their medicinal properties, particularly in women’s health. Drinking raspberry leaf tea can help tone the uterus and is believed to help delay menstruation. It’s a soothing, fruity tea that can be a delightful addition to your day.
Little scientific data exists on raspberry leaf tea's ability to delay periods. However, there is more evidence to support its use to regulate menstruation in general or during pregnancy.
Caution: While generally safe, overconsumption has the potential for mild nausea and diarrhoea.
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Lower Abdomen Massage
Massaging your lower abdomen in gentle, circular motions might help in delaying your period. Lower abdomen massage can relax the muscles and alter the timing of your cycle.
Though it's a soothing practice that can help relieve menstrual cramps and stress, scientific evidence behind it is a bit shaky.
Caution: If done improperly, it might lead to increased pain or discomfort.
Risks and Downsides of Natural Remedies
While natural remedies can offer a seemingly simple solution for delaying periods, they come with significant risks and downsides. It's essential to be aware of these potential issues to make an educated decision about your menstrual health.
- Unreliable Results: Natural remedies do not guarantee success. What works for one person might not work for another, leading to unpredictable outcomes.
- Lack of Scientific Evidence: Many natural remedies lack scientific backing, making their effectiveness largely anecdotal.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Remedies like apple cider vinegar and gram lentils can cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.
- Nutritional Imbalances: Excessive use of certain remedies might lead to nutritional imbalances. For instance, high-fiber foods like lentils can interfere with the absorption of essential minerals.
- Allergic Reactions: Natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, which might manifest as skin rashes, swelling, or more severe symptoms.
- Interference with Medications: Natural remedies can interact with prescribed medications, potentially reducing their efficacy or causing adverse reactions. For example, apple cider vinegar can interact with diuretics, laxatives, and insulin.
- Hormonal Changes: Some natural remedies might alter your hormonal balance in ways that are not fully understood, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities or exacerbating existing conditions.
Also Read: Acupressure Points for Period Cramps: Natural Techniques for Relief
Why Seeing a Doctor is so Important?
While the idea of using natural remedies to delay your period might seem appealing, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects. Always prioritise your health by consulting a healthcare professional before trying any new method.
Natural remedies can affect you based on your health status, medical history, and current medications. Consulting with a healthcare professional ensures that you receive advice tailored to your unique needs.
Natural remedies can interact with prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, or other supplements. Your doctor can help you find the safest and most effective approach for managing your menstrual cycle, ensuring your overall well-being is maintained.
Remember, being informed and cautious is key to making the best choices for your health.
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