NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service

Free, accessible, and confidential oral contraception without the GP wait. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, you can start a new contraceptive pill or easily manage your ongoing supply directly at North Yate Pharmacy. Private consultations with our accredited pharmacists.

Routine Contraception Made Simple

No need to wait for a GP appointment to start or renew your contraceptive pill.

Accessing routine contraception should be straightforward and flexible. Under the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, trained pharmacists can initiate patients on oral contraception or manage ongoing repeats of the combined pill or progestogen-only pill (mini-pill). We carry out all health checks—such as blood pressure and BMI checks—in our private consultation room to ensure your chosen pill is safe, comfortable, and effective.

What We Cover

Starting a New Pill (Initiation): Discuss your options, health history, and find the right oral contraceptive for your body.
Repeat Pill Supply (Continuation): Fast re-supply of your existing contraceptive pill without needing to contact your GP surgery.
Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC): Pills containing oestrogen and progestogen.
Progestogen-Only Pill (POP): Also known as the "mini-pill", suitable for those who cannot take oestrogen.

Why Choose North Yate Pharmacy?

100% Free on the NHS: No prescription charges for oral contraceptive pills.
Private Consultation Room: Complete discretion and confidential care.
On-the-Spot Health Checks: Quick blood pressure and weight/BMI monitoring included.
GP Integration: We update your medical record with your GP practice to keep everything synchronised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service free?

Yes. Oral contraceptive pills provided through the NHS service are completely free of charge with no prescription costs.

Can I start taking the pill for the first time at the pharmacy?

Yes! You no longer need to see a GP or visit a sexual health clinic first. Our trained pharmacists can assess your eligibility, explain your choices, and initiate your first supply directly.

What is the difference between the Combined Pill and the Mini-Pill?

The Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) contains both oestrogen and progestogen, whereas the Progestogen-Only Pill (POP/mini-pill) contains only progestogen. Our pharmacist will help determine which is safest based on your health history, blood pressure, and personal preferences.

Do you carry out blood pressure checks?

Yes. If you are starting or renewing the combined pill, checking your blood pressure and BMI is a routine clinical safety measure, easily done in under two minutes in our clinic room.

Do I have to tell my GP surgery?

We will notify your registered GP practice so your medical record stays up to date. However, your visit and personal details remain completely confidential within the healthcare system.

How long will the appointment take?

Repeat supplies usually take around 5–10 minutes. An initial consultation to start a new pill takes approximately 15 minutes.