What is the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service?
The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service lets you get the contraceptive pill directly from a participating pharmacy without needing to see your GP. We will capture all the information necessary so that a trained pharmacist can review your medical history to make sure the treatment is safe and suitable, then supply or renew your prescription under an NHS Patient Group Direction (PGD).
The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service is free of charge.
Can I order my contraceptive pill for free?
Yes. If you use our service, your consultation and medication are both free once approved by the pharmacist at our partner pharmacy without the need to see your GP.
How long will it take for my order to be processed?
Your order will be sent to our partner pharmacy within one working day. They will then contact you to complete your consultation. Please allow extra time around weekends and public holidays.
Can I order any contraception or just the oral contraception pill?
The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service is only for the regular oral contraceptive pill - either the combined pill or the progestogen-only pill. For other methods, such as the patch, injection, implant, or coil, you’ll need to speak to your GP or visit a sexual health clinic.
Do I need to speak to a pharmacist?
Yes. You’ll be asked to book a short call with a pharmacist at our partner pharmacy. This call is to confirm your details and make sure the medication is suitable and safe for you.
What if I’ve never used contraception before?
If you haven’t used contraception before, you can still use this service. The pharmacist at our partner pharmacy will review your health questionnaire to make sure the pill is safe and suitable for you.
You’ll usually receive an initial 3-month supply to see how you get on. It remains the pharmacists decision as to what is the most appropriate quantity to be prescribed.
If I’m already on contraception, can I stay on the same brand?
Yes. If you’re already taking a contraceptive pill that suits you, you can usually stay on the same brand.
The pharmacist at our partner pharmacy will review your details to make sure it’s still safe and suitable before approving your supply.
How many months’ supply can I get?
Under the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, you can usually receive up to 12 months’ supply of the contraceptive pill.
If it’s your first time using this service or you’re switching pills, you’ll normally get up to 3 months’ supply first. Once the pharmacist confirms the pill suits you, they can provide repeat supplies of up to 12 months at a time.
It remains the pharmacists decision as to what is the most appropriate quantity to be prescribed.
Can I get my contraception if I do not have a blood pressure reading?
No. Under the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service PGD, a current blood pressure (BP) reading is required before supplying combined oral contraception (COC).
You are still able to get the mini pill without a blood pressure reading.