How to stop your period as soon as possible

Menstrual bleeding follows changes in the womb lining and hormones. Once bleeding has started, its timing and flow vary between people and cycles. A sudden change can also reflect pregnancy-related bleeding, a hormonal problem, infection, fibroids, or another cause, so do not assume every episode is a normal period.

Use the menstrual product that suits your flow, rest when needed, and use heat for cramps. If you need to delay a future period for travel or an event, book advice before the expected start; suitability depends on your health, medicines, pregnancy possibility, migraine history, and clot risk. Do not take someone else's hormones or double doses, and seek advice before using medicines intended to reduce bleeding.

Seek urgent care for faintness, severe weakness, trouble breathing, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, or bleeding that is rapidly soaking products. Arrange medical review for bleeding between periods, after sex, after menopause, during possible pregnancy, or a new flow that is much heavier or longer than usual. Fever and chills with pelvic symptoms also need prompt assessment; chills can accompany infections such as urinary tract infection or more serious illness.

Can I safely delay a future period? Could my current medicines or health conditions affect the options? Does this bleeding pattern need a pregnancy test or examination?