Provera at Curely

Treatment Details

Treatment Details
Directions
Side Effects
Important Information

What is Provera?
Provera is a medication containing medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. It is used for various women's health issues, including regulating menstrual cycles and delaying periods.
What is Provera used for?
Provera is primarily used to delay periods for women who cannot use Norethisterone. It is also prescribed for irregular menstrual cycles, heavy periods, and endometriosis management.
How does Provera work?
Provera works by mimicking the effects of natural progesterone in the body. It prevents the thickening of the uterine lining, which delays the onset of menstruation. When taken as directed, Provera can effectively delay a period for special occasions or events.
Provera and Licensing
Provera is not currently licensed in the UK for period delay; however, it is used for many other conditions, such as helping treat heavy periods or endometriosis. It is recognised by doctors as being effective and safer for period delay treatment if you have risk factors that mean you cannot use Norethisterone or Utovlan.
How to Take Provera:
- Start taking Provera three days before the expected start of your period.
- The typical dosage is one tablet taken three times daily.
- Continue taking the tablets until you wish to delay your period, but do not exceed the prescribed duration.
- Swallow the tablets whole with water, with or without food.
Common side effects of Provera include:
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Mood changes
In rare cases, Provera may cause more severe side effects, such as allergic reactions or blood clotting issues. It is essential to follow medical advice and report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Patient Information Leaflet
- Do not take Provera if you are allergic to medroxyprogesterone acetate or any of the other ingredients.
- Provera is not suitable for women with a history of blood clots, liver disease, or certain types of cancer.
- Consult with a healthcare professional before using Provera if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any other health concerns.

Frequently asked questions

Can Provera be used to delay periods?
Yes, Provera can be used to delay periods, especially for women who cannot use Norethisterone. Although Provera is not licensed specifically for period delay in the UK, it is recognized by doctors as an effective option for this purpose.
How does Provera work to delay periods?
Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, which mimics the hormone progesterone in the body. It prevents the uterine lining from shedding, thereby delaying menstruation.
When should I start taking Provera to delay my period?
To effectively delay your period, you should start taking Provera three days before your expected period start date. The typical dosage is one tablet taken three times daily.
How long can I safely take Provera to delay my period?
Provera can be taken for up to 7-17 days to delay a period. It is important not to exceed the prescribed duration and dosage recommended by your healthcare professional.
What are the common side effects of Provera?
Common side effects of Provera include bloating, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, and mood changes. Most side effects are mild, but if you experience any severe symptoms, consult your doctor.
Is Provera suitable for everyone?
Provera is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used by women with a history of blood clots, liver disease, certain types of cancer, or those allergic to medroxyprogesterone acetate. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Provera.
Can I use Provera if I am allergic to Norethisterone?
Yes, Provera can be a suitable alternative for women who are allergic to Norethisterone or cannot use it due to other risk factors. It offers a safer option for period delay in such cases.
How quickly does Provera take effect?
Provera typically starts working within a few days of starting the medication. It should be taken three days before the intended period delay to be effective.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Provera?
It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Provera, as alcohol can exacerbate certain side effects such as dizziness and nausea. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific advice related to your situation.
How should I store Provera?
Provera should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Keep the medication in its original packaging until you are ready to use it.