Most patients can now get their contraceptive pill directly from a local pharmacy — without needing a GP appointment.
Local pharmacies offer a free NHS service where trained pharmacists can:-
- Start the contraceptive pill
- Continue or restart your existing pill
- Provide ongoing supplies
- Offer contraception advice in a private consultation
- You will receive the same checks and reviews that your GP Surgery would carry out
In many cases, this is quicker and easier than booking a GP appointment.
Why use the pharmacy first?
- Faster access — often same day
- No need for a GP appointment or prescription
- Private and confidential consultation
- Free on the NHS
- Helps keep GP appointments available for patients with more complex medical needs
How to get your pill
- Contact a participating local pharmacy or walk in
- Ask for the NHS contraception service
- The pharmacist will assess you and supply the pill if suitable
When should you contact the GP practice instead?
Please contact us if:
- The pharmacist advises GP review
- You have complex medical conditions or medication concerns
- You want contraception methods other than the pill (e.g. coil, implant, injection)
- You have new symptoms or side-effects that need medical assessment
Important information
Our reception team may signpost you to a pharmacy first for routine contraceptive pill requests, as this is now the recommended NHS pathway.
