A 5-minute phone consultation with a pharmacist, then your pill arrives in discreet packaging within 1-3 days. Over 300,000 women used the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service last year.
Clinically reviewed by Usama Ali, MPharm (GPhC: 2224726).
Three Steps. That's It.
Book online: Pick a time. Takes 2 minutes. Choose a slot that works for you. Just pop in a few details and we'll send you a confirmation email. No account needed, no card details.
Speak to a pharmacist: A quick, friendly chat. A GPhC registered pharmacist calls you within your chosen slot. They'll review your medical history and confirm your pill. Usually under 10 minutes.
Free delivery: Plain packaging, straight to your door. Your pill is posted the same day in plain packaging. No logos, nothing to indicate what's inside. Arrives within 1-3 working days.
Get the Contraceptive Pill Without a GP Appointment
The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service means you can get your pill directly from a pharmacist. No GP visit, no waiting room, no prescription needed.
GP: Routine appointments can take days or weeks. Us: Book online at a time that suits you.
GP: Usually means an in-person visit. Us: Confidential phone consultation from anywhere.
GP: GP writes a script, then you collect separately. Us: We assess, supply and post from one place.
GP: Travel, waiting rooms and a second trip. Us: Done from home with discreet delivery.
Both routes follow the same NHS clinical protocols, UKMEC criteria and Patient Group Directions. The standard of care is identical.
This service works alongside your existing NHS care. If your needs are more complex (coil, implant or injection), your pharmacist will point you to the right service.
Who Can Use This Service?
Aged 16-49 (combined pill) or 16-54 (progestogen-only pill)
Based in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
Blood pressure reading required for the combined pill only
Not sure if you're eligible? Book anyway. Our pharmacist will confirm everything during your call. No obligation.
Your Safety
Every supply is clinically reviewed by a GPhC registered pharmacist. We follow UKMEC guidelines, the same clinical standards your GP uses. All supply is subject to clinical eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this service really free?
Your consultation and contraception are fully funded by the NHS. We also deliver free of charge. The delivery cost is on us. No hidden charges, no card details needed.
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.
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 1-3 working days anywhere in the UK in plain, unmarked packaging.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is this available across the UK?
Yes. We deliver to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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.
How often do I need a review?
An annual review is recommended. Your pharmacist will let you know when it's due.