Order the Mini Pill Online
Yes, you can order the mini pill (the progestogen-only pill) online, free on the NHS. Fill in a short health questionnaire, a GPhC-registered pharmacist checks it is suitable for you, 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 mini pill?
The mini pill, also known as the progestogen-only pill, is taken once a day. Unlike the combined pill it contains only one hormone, which makes it suitable for many people who cannot take oestrogen. It works by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the womb; the desogestrel and drospirenone mini pills (Cerelle, Cerazette, Slynd) also stop ovulation in most cycles. Taken correctly it is more than 99% effective, and around 91% effective with typical use.
How to order the mini pill online
- Complete a short online consultation about your health and medical history. No card details needed.
- Speak to a pharmacist, who reviews your answers by phone to make sure the mini pill is suitable.
- Discreet delivery in plain packaging within 1 to 3 working days.
Supply is always subject to the pharmacist's assessment. The mini pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Is the mini pill free on the NHS?
Yes. It is free on the NHS through GPs, sexual health clinics, and pharmacies providing the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, including Contraception Direct. The consultation, the pill, and the delivery are all free.
Which mini pill will I receive?
Usually a desogestrel 75 microgram product: Cerelle, Cerazette, Feanolla, Zelleta, or unbranded generic desogestrel. They are the same medicine. Your pharmacist may discuss Slynd or another type if there is a clinical reason.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the mini pill free to order online?
- Yes. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service the mini pill, the consultation, and the delivery are all free. There is no prescription charge and no card details are needed. Contraception Direct also covers the postage.
- Do I need to see a GP to order the mini pill?
- 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 mini pill will I receive?
- Most commonly a desogestrel 75 microgram pill, supplied as Cerelle, Cerazette, Feanolla, Zelleta, or unbranded generic desogestrel. They are the same medicine. Your pharmacist may discuss Slynd (drospirenone) or another type if there is a clinical reason.
- Is it safe to order the mini pill online?
- Yes, when you use a GPhC-registered pharmacy. Your answers are reviewed by a registered pharmacist using the same UKMEC clinical checks a GP or pharmacy would use, so the standard of care is the same.
- How quickly will it arrive?
- After your phone consultation, if the mini pill is suitable, it is posted in plain, discreet packaging by Royal Mail. Most people receive it within 1 to 3 working days anywhere in the UK.
- What if the mini pill is not suitable for me?
- Your pharmacist will explain why and suggest the best next step, whether that is the combined pill, a different method, or your GP or a sexual health clinic. You are never left without advice.
Book your free consultation. See also order the combined pill online and what is the mini pill.