Free NHS contraceptive pill
Start the pill or get your next supply from our pharmacist, free on the NHS. You don't need a GP appointment or even to be registered with a GP. Request it online and we'll deliver it, usually the next day.
- Free on the NHS, no prescription charge
- No GP appointment needed
- Next-day discreet delivery
- Blood pressure check included
Mini pill or combined pill?
Both are over 99% effective when taken correctly. The pharmacist will help you choose, and if you already take a pill that works for you, we'll usually keep you on it.
Mini pill (progestogen-only)
Contains one hormone, progestogen. It mainly works by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb. It suits people who can't take oestrogen, such as smokers over 35.
- Desogestrel 75 microgram
- Cerelle (Desogestrel 75 microgram)
- Cerazette (Desogestrel 75 microgram)
- Noriday (Norethisterone 350 microgram)
Combined pill
Contains two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, and mainly works by stopping ovulation. Before supplying it, the pharmacist checks your blood pressure and BMI.
- Microgynon 30 (Levonorgestrel/Ethinylestradiol)
- Rigevidon (Levonorgestrel/Ethinylestradiol)
- Levest (Levonorgestrel/Ethinylestradiol)
- Femodette (Gestodene/Ethinylestradiol)
- Gedarel 20/150 (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel)
- Gedarel 30/150 (Ethinylestradiol/Desogestrel)
- Yasmin (Ethinylestradiol/Drospirenone)
How to get the contraceptive pill free from our pharmacy
1. Request your pill online
Tell us whether you're starting the pill or need your next supply, and which pill you take now.
2. Short call or visit with the pharmacist
They ask about your health and medicines, check your blood pressure and agree the right pill with you.
3. Delivered to your door
We post it in plain packaging, and it usually arrives the next day.
Starting the pill for the first time
The pharmacist talks you through your options and starts you on a pill that suits you, without you seeing your GP first.
Already taking the pill
Whether your GP, a sexual health clinic or we started you on it, we can check it still suits you and give you your next supply.
Getting the pill from us or from your GP
It's the same NHS pill either way. The difference is how you get it.
| Question | Newton Drive Pharmacy | GP surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Free on the NHS? | Yes | Yes |
| Need to be registered with a GP? | No | Yes |
| How do I ask for it? | Request online or walk in | Book an appointment |
| How do I get it? | Delivered, usually next day | Collect from a pharmacy |
Contraceptive pill questions
Is the contraceptive pill free on the NHS?
Yes. Contraception is free on the NHS in England, with no prescription charge. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, our pharmacist can start you on the pill or give you your next supply at no cost.
Can I get the pill without seeing my GP?
Yes. You can start or carry on taking the pill through our pharmacist, without a GP appointment. You don't even need to be registered with a GP.
What's the difference between the mini pill and the combined pill?
The combined pill has two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, and mainly works by stopping ovulation. The mini pill (progestogen-only pill) has just one hormone. It mainly works by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb, and it suits people who can't take oestrogen.
What happens at a pill consultation?
It's a short, private chat. The pharmacist asks about your health and medicines, checks your blood pressure and your height and weight, and agrees the right pill with you. You can request it online first and we'll call you.
Can I get my next supply of the pill delivered?
Yes. Request your pill online. Once the pharmacist has spoken to you, we send it in discreet packaging, usually arriving the next day.
Which pills do you supply?
Mini pills including desogestrel, Cerelle, Cerazette and Noriday, and combined pills including Microgynon, Rigevidon, Levest, Femodette, Gedarel and Yasmin. If you already take a pill, we'll usually keep you on the same one.
I've missed a pill. What should I do?
It depends on which pill you take and how many you've missed. Check the leaflet in your pack or call us. If you've had sex and you're not protected, you may need emergency contraception.
Missed a pill? Find out what to do for your pill type.
Missed a pill or had unprotected sex?
The morning after pill is free on the NHS if you're eligible. Walk in with no appointment, or order online.
This page is general guidance and doesn't replace a consultation. Last reviewed by Newton Drive Pharmacy, regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council.