Provera is a tablet prescription medicine developed and marketed by Pfizer pharmaceutical company. This prescription-only pill is used for treatment of heavy periods or period pain, and also for period delay in those cases where norethisterone is not suitable, although that form of use is usually considered off-label.

This branded medicine based on medroxyprogesterone as an active ingredient is very adept at mitigating the symptoms of heavy periods and is commonly prescribed for women struggling with this issue. You can buy Provera in the UK with a prescription only, although it is possible to do this online too.

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When is Provera used?

As mentioned, Provera is used for the treatment and management of heavy periods and period pain, but also for period delay in some instances. Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia in the medical community, are periods marked by intensive and excessive bleeding during menstruation.

However, it is not that easy to precisely say how much lost blood during a period is “excessive” as this is something that significantly varies from one woman to another. According to official data provided by the NHS, the average amount of blood loss during a period should not exceed 30 to 40ml. However, up until 60ml of blood can be considered normal in some cases. Quantities larger than 60ml are considered to be heavy menstrual bleeding.

The most straight-forward way to determine if you are affected by heavy periods is to judge by the number of tampons or sanitary pads you used. In addition, if the bleeding penetrates through these onto your clothing or bed sheets, it is a relatively certain sign of heavy bleeding.

What causes heavy periods?

When it comes to the root causes of heavy periods, most of the time it is borderline impossible to single out one specific cause. This is why it is best to visit a doctor and talk to him if you notice any change in bleeding patterns whatsoever.

On the other hand, period pain is caused by muscular contractions in the womb which occur when the lining of the womb is getting shed during the period. These movements cause a restriction in the flow of blood into certain parts of the womb which in turns facilitates the release of a chemical called prostaglandis, the compound responsible for the sensation of pain.

However, pain caused by these processes is a natural part of period and is not problematic in itself. Different women will experience different levels of pain intensity and will cope with it in different ways. However, changes in pain intensity, such as sudden or considerable worsening of the sensation can be indicative of an underlying cause, so if you notice any of them, be sure to visit a medical professional.

What is period delay?

Period delay medicines can be very useful for women who have very specific plans that require their total concentration and activity and which can’t be rescheduled, but can be affected by a period coming up. For example, having a period can make studying for an important exam or partaking in a big sporting event very problematic. By delaying period for certain period, you will be able to prevent it from distracting you and impacting your performance and concentration.

How does Provera cause period delay?

Provera contains a synthetic form of progesterone hormone called medroxyprogesterone acetate that is the secret to its effectiveness. But prior to going in-depth on this issue, let’s first consider the role of progesterone in a woman’s body.

Progesterone is naturally synthesised hormone that is released at certain times during the month as a part of the normal menstrual cycle. When levels of this hormone decrease, the body will ‘know’ that it is nearing the end of the cycle and will thus begin shedding the lining of the womb, resulting in menstrual period. When used, Provera will make up for the lack of natural progesterone, making the menstrual symptoms less severe, and in high enough concentration, making menstruation completely absent.

Can I buy Provera online in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to buy Provera online, however, in the UK you will have to obtain a valid prescription issued by a certified medical professional. In order to accomplish all this without leaving the comfort of your home, you first need to choose an online clinic selling Provera. There, you will be presented with an opportunity to consult with a doctor online so he can assess your suitability for Provera. This can be accomplished either through a live chat app or through a customized questionnaire. Once the doctor has gained insight into your medical profile and history, he will be able to make an informed decision about whether to prescribe Provera.

If you get the green light, a prescription will be issued, and used at that very same moment to order a medicine from a partner pharmacy and deliver it to your address within a timespan specified by the online clinic’s business model.

What are the side effects?

As is the case with all prescription medicines, Provera too comes with a certain risk of side effects. Some of them can be rather serious, so if you notice anything indicative of the following conditions, contact the emergency services immediately.

Condition

Signs and symptoms

Allergic reaction

Swelling of the face, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing, hives

Blood clot in the lungs

Sudden severe chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fast heartbeat

Stroke

Severe and persistent headache, difficulty speaking and making facial movements

Blood clot in the leg

Pain in the calf or ankle, redness or tenderness in the leg

In addition to these, there are some other Provera side effects that you should keep in mind.

Frequency of occurrence

Side effects

Very common (1 in 10 users or more)

Headache, nausea, unusual vaginal bleeding

Common (1 in 10 users or less)

Depression, problems sleeping, anxiety, dizziness, hair loss, acne, itchiness, vaginal discharge, breast pain

Uncommon (1 in 100 users)

Excess hair growth on face, breast discharge, water retention

Provera contraindications

Of course, there are some cases when the use of Provera might be contraindicated. This can be the case if you are taking any prescription, non-prescription or remedial treatment that might adversely interact with Provera. Medicines known to be problematic include:

  • Aminogluthimide
  • Medicines for blood thining
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Ritonavir
  • Nelfinavir
  • Antibiotics
  • St John’s wort

In addition to adverse interactions, Provera use might be contraindicated due to the presence or history of certain medical conditions that can be exacerbated or reactivated or progress to unforeseen complications due to the use of the medicine. These include:

  • Epilepsy
  • Migraines
  • Asthma
  • Heart, kidney or liver diseases
  • Diabetes
  • Depression
  • High blood pressure
  • Gallstones
  • Lupus
  • Hearing problems

Finally, Provera shouldn’t be used by women who are pregnant, are planning to get pregnant or are currently breastfeeding. Keep in mind that Provera does not act as a contraceptive pill and you will still have to use barrier contraception such as condom in order to prevent pregnancy while using this medicine.