Free NHS Contraception ServiceÂ
Whether you're starting the pill for the first time, continuing with your regular contraception, thinking about switching, or need the morning after pill, Chemist4U can help with your free NHS contraception – no GP appointment needed!
Ready to access your free contraceptive pill?
To ensure the pill is right and safe for you, we require a phone call with one of our friendly pharmacists after you’ve completed the online consultation. This is also an ideal opportunity for you to ask any questions.
How to get your free contraceptive pill
- Create your account or log in: You’ll need an account with Chemist4U to start your free NHS contraception consultation.
- Start the consultation: We’ll ask you about your health and pill preferences.
- Book your pharmacist phone call: Pick a time and day that’s convenient for you. Then checkout to confirm your pill preference and call slot.
- Chat with one of our pharmacists: Your prescriber will consider any brand or pill preferences where available.
- Wait for delivery: If approved for the free contraceptive pill, we’ll deliver it quickly and discreetly to your door.
Why choose Chemist4U for your contraception?
Same pill, simpler service. Here’s how:
- Quick and convenient. Get your contraceptive pill delivered straight to your door, with next-day delivery available for emergency contraception. No more rushing to the pharmacy or worrying about running out.
- Never miss a pill. Easily manage your repeat prescriptions online. Set up reminders, reorder with a few clicks, and keep everything in one place.
- Private and discreet. We understand that your health is personal. That’s why everything arrives in plain, unbranded packaging, and your information stays completely confidential.
- Trusted and regulated. As a registered UK online pharmacy, we’re held to the same high standards as your local chemist. The difference? We come to you, not the other way around.
Free NHS contraception eligibility
To be eligible for this service, you need to:
- live in England (if you live in another part of the UK, you can still access this service, but it will come with a fee)
- be either starting the contraceptive pill or getting a repeat supply.
- have begun menstruating
- be 49 or younger for the combined pill
- be 54 or younger for the progesterone-only pill
We recommend under-16s obtain their contraception at a local GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic.
What contraception is available for free?
Most popular oral contraceptives are available through this service, including both combined and progesterone-only (mini pill) options and emergency contraception.
If you’re unsure which type of contraceptive is right for you, one of our pharmacists will be able to advise you during your phone call appointment.
Meanwhile, if your preferred contraception isn't available through this service, you can still access it with us for a fee.
Combined pill
The combined pill contains two hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) and is typically taken for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break when you’ll have a withdrawal bleed (period), although some pills vary. For some women, the combined pill can help to reduce acne, but it isn’t always suitable for those who suffer from migraines.
Mini pill
The progesterone-only pill, commonly referred to as the mini pill, contains just one hormone and must be taken every single day without a break. It’s often better suited to women who can’t take oestrogen due to risk of complications.
Emergency contraception (morning after pill)
Emergency contraception, commonly known as the morning after pill, comes in two main types, both taken as a single tablet after unprotected sex or if contraception fails. The first type can be taken up to 96 hours afterwards, and is available without prescription, though it works best when it’s taken within the first 24 hours.
The second type can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) afterwards and stays more effective over time, particularly if you’re overweight or it’s been more than 72 hours. Both work by preventing or delaying ovulation.
While they’re generally well-tolerated, emergency contraception isn’t 100% effective and shouldn’t replace regular oral contraception.
Please note that as an online pharmacist, your emergency pill will arrive the day after your consultation. If we feel we can’t provide you within the medication within the effective window, we’ll still carry out your consultation but will then direct you to your nearest local supplier for same-day access.
Frequently asked questions about NHS contraception
How quickly can I get my free contraception? 
Once a pharmacist has approved your contraceptive pill, it will be dispatched with delivery options to suit your needs, including next-day delivery for urgent orders or standard delivery, which takes 3-5 working days.
Can I get free emergency contraception? 
Emergency contraception (the morning after pill) is now covered by the Free NHS Contraception Service. If you need free emergency contraception sooner, you can get it through other NHS routes, including sexual health clinics.
Can I change my contraception? 
Yes, you can change your contraceptive pill through this service. Whether you want to change the pill itself or make the switch between combined and progesterone-only, you can do so during your online consultation. However, this will be subject to pharmacist approval.
Can I access free contraception outside of England? 
The Free NHS Contraception Service is only available to those who live in England. If you live in another part of the UK, you can still access this service, but it will come with a fee. We cannot offer this service to anybody who lives outside of the UK.
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