Pharmacy First

NHS contraception, delivered to your door for free

Get support and advice so you can find contraception that works for you and order online, for free.
Trustpilot

Book a Consultation

What is NHS Pharmacy First?

Free NHS Contraception

You don’t need to see a doctor or nurse for a prescription for contraception.
You can use our online consultation to:

  • Start using the contraceptive pill for the first time
  • Start the contraceptive pill again after a break from taking it
  • Renew your existing pill if it’s already been prescribed to you

How it works

Booking

Book a free online consultation with one of our expert NHS licensed pharmacists at a time that suits you.

Consultation

During your video consultation your pharmacist will discuss your options with you, and answer any questions you may have.

Prescription

Your pharmacist will prescribe the contraception of your choosing, or update a previous prescription.

Delivery

Receive your medication in the post the next working day, for free.

Frequently asked questions

01

Do I need to do anything before my appointment?

When making your booking you'll be asked to fill out a short form which gives the pharmacist or healthcare specialist some additional details about you. Other than that you only need to join the video call to speak with your pharmacist.

02

Can I reschedule my appointment?

Yes, you can reschedule a future appointment from within your account or contact us via our online chat for help.

03

Is my contraception really free?

Yes, oral contraception provided through our NHS contraception service is free.

04

What types of contraception are there?

We can only supply oral contraception through this service. This includes combined contraception and the progesterone only minipill. There are plenty of other longer acting contraception choices available through the NHS too, but you will need to access these through your local sexual health services.

05

What method of contraception is right for me?

The different options available to you will be discussed with you during your consultation so you can decide what the best option is. If you'd like to read more about contraception, a good resource to use is www.contraceptionchoices.org

06

What happens if I miss my call?

If you are going to be unable to make your scheduled call, please cancel or reschedule the appointment so we can reallocate the appointment for someone else who requires healthcare services.

07

Who will see me during my consultation?

You will be seen by a registered pharmacist for NHS Pharmacy First consultations and contraception services, and by the healthcare professional of your choosing for a private consultations.

08

How are many of these services free?

Generally speaking, NHS services are free if you are exempt from prescription charges. The current prescription NHS prescription charge is £9.90. In England prescribed contraception is free for all women. Private services are chargeable, usually for both the consultation and the cost of the medication that is prescribed.