Yes. Eligible patients can access oral contraception free of charge through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service. This includes both the combined contraceptive pill and the progestogen-only pill (mini pill). This includes patients starting oral contraception for the first time (following a clinical assessment), as well as patients reordering their regular oral contraception.

There are two main types of oral contraception:
Combined Contraceptive Pill:
Contains both oestrogen and progestogen.
Taken daily to prevent pregnancy.
May also help with period symptoms, acne, and menstrual cycle regulation.
Progestogen-Only Pill (POP or Mini Pill)
Contains only progestogen:
Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen.
Often recommended during breastfeeding or when certain medical conditions are present.
Our clinicians will help determine which option is most suitable for you.

The combined pill contains both oestrogen and progestogen, while the mini pill contains only progestogen.
The combined pill may offer additional benefits such as lighter periods, more predictable cycles, and reduced period pain. However, it is not suitable for everyone.
The mini pill is often preferred for women who are breastfeeding, smokers over 35, or those with certain medical conditions that make oestrogen-containing contraception unsuitable.
During your consultation, our clinician will recommend the safest and most appropriate option based on your health and lifestyle.

If you are starting oral contraception for the first time, a consultation with a clinician is required. This allows us to assess your suitability, discuss your options, and explain how to use the pill correctly.
If you are already taking a contraceptive pill and require a routine resupply, a full consultation is not necessary, provided your information remains up to date.

Yes. Women sometimes switch between different contraceptive pills due to side effects, changes in health, lifestyle factors, or personal preference.
Our clinicians can advise whether changing from a combined pill to a progestogen-only pill, or vice versa, is appropriate for you and explain how to switch safely.

The advice depends on:
Whether you take a combined pill or a progestogen-only pill.
How many pills have been missed.
When the missed pill occurred in your packet.
You will receive detailed missed pill guidance after your consultation. If you are unsure what to do, contact the pharmacy for advice as soon as possible.

No. Oral contraception does not affect long-term fertility. Most women return to their normal level of fertility soon after stopping the pill, although it may take a short period for natural menstrual cycles to become regular again.

Some contraceptive pills can make periods lighter, less painful, or less frequent. Certain pill regimens may allow periods to be delayed or skipped safely.
The effect varies depending on the type of pill prescribed and individual response to treatment.

Some women experience side effects when starting oral contraception. Common side effects may include:
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Nausea
Mood changes
Breakthrough bleeding or spotting
Many side effects improve within the first few months of use. If symptoms persist, an alternative contraceptive option may be considered.

Simply complete our confidential online forms to make a request for your repeat contraception or book an appointment with our clinicians to get started on the pill. A trained clinician will assess your needs, discuss suitable contraception options, and provide treatment where appropriate through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service for free