Everything you need to know about our free NHS contraception service.
Clinically reviewed by Usama Ali, MPharm (GPhC: 2224726).
About the Service
Is this service really free?
Yes. Your consultation and contraception are fully funded by the NHS. We also deliver free of charge. The delivery cost is on us, not the NHS. There are no hidden charges.
Is the packaging discreet?
Absolutely. Your contraception arrives in plain, unmarked packaging with no mention of the contents or our service name.
Is this available across the UK?
Yes. We deliver free NHS contraception to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Getting Started
Who is eligible?
With Contraception Direct, you need to be aged 16 or over with a UK address. Combined pill: ages 16 to 49. Mini pill: ages 16 to 54. The NHS service is available from a younger age in person. If you are under 16, a local pharmacy, GP, or sexual health clinic can help.
Do I need to have used the pill before?
No. This service covers both new starters and repeat supplies. First-time users get a full initiation assessment.
Do I need a prescription from my GP?
No. Our pharmacists supply the contraceptive pill directly under a Patient Group Direction (PGD), an NHS legal framework that allows pharmacists to provide specific medications without a GP prescription.
Do I need a blood pressure reading?
Only if you're requesting the combined pill. Your pharmacist will let you know what's needed during the booking process.
Your Consultation
How long does the consultation take?
For repeat supplies, around 5 minutes. If you're starting or switching, it may take a little longer as the pharmacist talks through your options and carries out a full assessment.
What if I miss the consultation call?
We'll try to reach you two more times within your chosen slot. If we can't get through, email us to rebook. No penalty or extra charge.
Will my GP be told?
Only if you want them to be. We can send a notification to your GP, but it's entirely optional.
Can I switch to a different pill?
Yes. Your pharmacist can discuss alternatives during your consultation if you're experiencing side effects or your circumstances have changed.
What if I'm not suitable for the pill?
Our pharmacist will explain why and suggest the best next step: your GP, a different method, or a local sexual health clinic.
What will I be asked during a consultation?
Your consultation will cover your medical history, any current medications, your blood pressure (for the combined pill), your BMI, and whether you smoke. These checks follow the same NHS guidelines regardless of where you are seen.
Your Pill
Will the pill affect my fertility?
No. Contraceptive pills don't affect your long-term fertility. Once you stop taking them, your fertility returns to normal.
What about side effects?
Most side effects are mild and temporary, usually settling within the first few months. Common side effects include irregular bleeding or spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and mood changes. Your pharmacist will talk you through what to expect. Read our guide on side effects.
Can I continue my current pill?
Yes, if you're already on the pill and it's working well for you, our pharmacists can continue your prescription after a quick safety check.
How often do I need a review?
An annual review is recommended. Your pharmacist will let you know when it's due.
Delivery
How long does delivery take?
Your medication is posted the same day if your appointment is early enough, otherwise the following morning. Most deliveries arrive within 1 to 3 working days anywhere in the UK in plain, unmarked packaging.
Cost and NHS Funding
Is the contraceptive pill free on the NHS?
Yes. The contraceptive pill is free on the NHS across the UK. This applies whether you are starting contraception for the first time or continuing an existing prescription. Unlike many other medications, contraception is exempt from NHS prescription charges. Read our full guide.
Where can I get the pill for free?
You can access the pill for free through GP surgeries, sexual health clinics, participating pharmacies via the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, or online services like Contraception Direct.
Is the contraceptive pill free at pharmacies?
Yes. At participating pharmacies, the pill is provided free of charge under NHS guidelines. Pharmacists can offer consultations to assess suitability and supply the pill directly.
Is emergency contraception free?
Emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) is also available for free through NHS services including pharmacies, GP surgeries, and sexual health clinics. At Contraception Direct, we do not offer the morning-after pill. Contact one of these services if you need it.
The Mini Pill
What is the mini pill?
The mini pill, also known as the progestogen-only pill (POP), is a daily oral contraceptive containing only one hormone. It is a suitable option for those who cannot or prefer not to take oestrogen. Read our full guide.
How does the mini pill work?
The mini pill prevents pregnancy in three main ways: it thickens cervical mucus making it harder for sperm to reach an egg, it thins the lining of the womb, and some types can stop the ovaries from releasing an egg.
How effective is the mini pill?
When taken correctly, the mini pill is more than 99% effective. With typical use it is around 91% effective. It should be taken at the same time every day.
Does the mini pill affect your period?
Yes, the mini pill can change your bleeding pattern. Some women notice lighter periods, irregular bleeding, or in some cases no periods at all. These changes usually settle as your body adjusts.
Who is the mini pill suitable for?
The mini pill is suitable for a wide range of women, including those who are breastfeeding, over 35 and smoke, have certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, or experience side effects from oestrogen.
The Combined Pill
What is the combined pill?
The combined pill contains two hormones, oestrogen and progestogen, and is one of the most widely used forms of contraception in the UK. It is taken daily, usually for 21 days followed by a 7-day break. Read our full guide.
How does the combined pill work?
The combined pill prevents pregnancy in three ways: it stops your ovaries from releasing an egg each month, thickens the mucus at the cervix making it harder for sperm to reach an egg, and thins the lining of the womb.
Who can take the combined pill?
The combined pill is suitable for most women up to age 49. It is not recommended if you have a history of blood clots, experience migraine with aura, smoke and are over 35, have a BMI above 35, or have high blood pressure.
What are common combined pill brands?
Common brands in the UK include Microgynon, Rigevidon, Yasmin, Gedarel, Lucette, and Eloine. They contain the same types of hormones but in different doses and combinations.
Can I skip my pill break?
Some women take the pill back-to-back, skipping the 7-day break to avoid having a withdrawal bleed. Your pharmacist can advise whether this is appropriate for you.
Side Effects
What are common side effects when starting the pill?
Common side effects include irregular bleeding or spotting, nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes, and mild bloating. These are usually short-term and improve as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels.
What are the side effects of stopping the pill?
When you stop taking the pill, you may notice changes to your menstrual cycle, irregular periods, temporary breakouts or acne, mood changes, and a return of previous symptoms such as heavy or painful periods. These are generally temporary.
Are side effects different between the mini pill and combined pill?
The mini pill's side effects are generally similar but can differ because it does not contain oestrogen. Many women find it easier to tolerate. The combined pill's side effects are often linked to the oestrogen component.
When should I seek medical advice about side effects?
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience painful swelling in one leg, sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, a severe or unusual headache, or sudden changes in vision. If mild side effects persist beyond three months, speak to a pharmacist about trying a different type.
How to Get the Pill
What are my options for getting the pill?
There are four main ways: through your GP, a sexual health clinic, a pharmacy via the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, or an online service like Contraception Direct. All routes are free on the NHS. Read our full guide.
Can I get the pill without seeing a GP?
Yes. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, pharmacists can supply the pill directly under a Patient Group Direction (PGD). You do not need to be registered with a GP to use this route.
Can I get the pill online?
Yes. With Contraception Direct, you book a free phone consultation with a GPhC registered pharmacist who calls you at a time that suits you. If the pill is right for you, it is posted in discreet packaging and usually arrives within 1 to 3 working days.
Which route is best for me?
If you want speed and convenience, a pharmacy or online service avoids the wait for a GP appointment. If you prefer face-to-face advice, a sexual health clinic offers that without a referral. All routes follow the same clinical guidelines and provide the same standard of care.