NHS Service

NHS Contraception Service

Our pharmacists can start and supply oral contraception, and provide emergency contraception, without you needing to see a GP. The service is free on the NHS.

Prefer to talk? Call us on 01424 220424 or pop in to the pharmacy.

POC

Progestogen-only pill (the mini pill)

The progestogen-only pill contains the hormone progestogen but does not contain oestrogen. It is taken every day, with no break between packs.

More than 99% effective when taken correctly, around 91% effective with typical use
Can be used by people who cannot take oestrogen, including those who are breastfeeding or who smoke and are over 35
Must be taken at the same time each day. Most types allow a 12 hour window, older types allow only 3 hours
Periods may become lighter, irregular or stop altogether
Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so use condoms as well

Complete the POC form Read the NHS guidance

COC

Combined hormonal contraception (the combined pill)

The combined pill contains both oestrogen and progestogen. It stops your ovaries releasing an egg each month and is usually taken for 21 days followed by a break, or continuously depending on the brand.

More than 99% effective when taken correctly, around 91% effective with typical use
Often makes periods lighter, more regular and less painful
Not suitable if you are over 35 and smoke, or if you have certain conditions such as migraine with aura, high blood pressure or a history of blood clots
You will need a blood pressure and weight check before we can supply it
Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so use condoms as well

Complete the COC form Read the NHS guidance

EHC

Emergency hormonal contraception (the morning after pill)

Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your usual contraception has failed. The sooner it is taken, the better it works.

Levonorgestrel can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex
Ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex
It is not an abortion pill and it does not protect you for the rest of your cycle
A copper coil fitted by a clinic is the most effective form of emergency contraception
Speak to us as soon as possible. We will ask a few confidential questions to check which option is right for you

Complete the EHC form Read the NHS guidance

What happens at your appointment

We will have a private, confidential consultation, check your blood pressure and weight where needed, and talk through the options that suit you. If a pharmacy supply is not right for you, we will refer you to your GP or a sexual health clinic.

View all pharmacy services