Order the Combined Pill Online
Yes, you can order the combined pill online, free on the NHS. Fill in a short health questionnaire, a GPhC-registered pharmacist checks it is suitable for you (including a recent blood pressure reading), and if it is, your pill is posted in discreet packaging within 1 to 3 working days. No GP appointment is needed.
Reviewed by Usama Ali, MPharm (GPhC: 2224726). Last reviewed: July 2026.
What is the combined pill?
The combined pill contains two hormones, an oestrogen and a progestogen. They prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the lining of the womb. Taken correctly it is more than 99% effective, and around 91% effective with typical use.
How to order the combined pill online
- Complete a short online consultation, including a recent blood pressure reading and your height and weight.
- Speak to a pharmacist, who checks your suitability using UKMEC, the same framework a GP uses.
- Discreet delivery within 1 to 3 working days if the pill is suitable.
Supply is always subject to the pharmacist's assessment.
Who can take the combined pill?
Because it contains oestrogen, the combined pill is not usually supplied if you smoke and are over 35, have a history of blood clots, get migraine with aura, have a BMI of 35 or above, have blood pressure at or above 140/90 mmHg, or are breastfeeding in the first six weeks after birth. If it is not suitable, your pharmacist can help you explore alternatives such as the mini pill. The combined pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Benefits of the combined pill
As well as preventing pregnancy, the combined pill can make periods lighter, more regular and less painful, and can help with acne. You can run packs back to back to skip periods, which is safe and supported by FSRH guidance.
Which combined pill will I receive?
Usually a first-line levonorgestrel pill such as Microgynon, Rigevidon, or Levest, which carry the lowest blood clot risk among combined pills. Your pharmacist may discuss another type, such as Yasmin, if there is a clinical reason.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the combined pill free to order online?
- Yes. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service the combined pill, the consultation, and the delivery are all free. There is no prescription charge and no card details are needed.
- Do I need a blood pressure reading?
- Yes. A recent blood pressure reading (within the last 12 months) is required before the combined pill can be supplied, because oestrogen can affect blood pressure. Your pharmacist will confirm what is needed. The mini pill does not usually require one.
- Do I need to see a GP?
- No. A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your questionnaire and supplies the pill under a Patient Group Direction, so no GP appointment or prescription is needed. Supply is always subject to the pharmacist's assessment.
- Which combined pill will I receive?
- Usually a first-line levonorgestrel pill such as Microgynon, Rigevidon, or Levest, which carry the lowest blood clot risk among combined pills. Your pharmacist may discuss another type, such as Yasmin, if there is a clinical reason.
- Is it safe to order the combined pill online?
- Yes, when you use a GPhC-registered pharmacy. Your answers are reviewed by a registered pharmacist using the same UKMEC checks a GP would use, including blood pressure and BMI, so the standard of care is the same.
- How quickly will it arrive?
- If the combined pill is suitable, it is posted in plain, discreet packaging by Royal Mail and most people receive it within 1 to 3 working days anywhere in the UK.
Book your free consultation. See also order the mini pill online and what is the combined pill.