Contraception, without the GP wait
Two free NHS services, in a private consultation with our pharmacist: emergency contraception, and starting or continuing the contraceptive pill without a GP appointment.
- NHS
- Private room
- No judgement
private, and no judgement
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception, often called the morning after pill, can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your regular contraception has failed, for example if a condom splits or you miss a pill.
It’s free on the NHS for eligible women, including those under 16, who get a confidential consultation following NHS guidelines. The sooner you come in, the better: our pharmacist will talk you through the options and how long each one works after unprotected sex.
If you’re not eligible for the free service, the pharmacist can discuss a private option.
Starting or continuing the pill
Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, you can start the progesterone-only pill or the combined pill, or get a repeat supply if you’re already taking one, without seeing your GP.
The pharmacist checks your blood pressure, weight and medical history, talks through what suits your lifestyle, and supplies it if it’s right for you.
How it works
- 1Come in or call
Monday to Friday 9am to 6:30pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm. Ask at the counter for a private consultation. You don’t have to say why out loud.
- 2A private chat
Our pharmacist asks a few questions in the consultation room. Everything you say is confidential.
- 3Leave with what you need
If it’s suitable, you leave with your supply. If not, we’ll tell you where to go next.
Free on the NHS for eligible women.
We can point you to local sexual health services. Call 999 in an emergency. For urgent advice when we’re closed, call NHS 111 or go to 111.nhs.uk.
Common questions
Is emergency contraception free?
Yes, on the NHS for eligible women, including those under 16, after a confidential consultation with our pharmacist.
How soon do I need to come in?
As soon as possible. Emergency contraception works best the sooner it’s taken, and the pharmacist will explain how long each option works after unprotected sex.
Can I start the pill without seeing my GP?
Yes. Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service you can start the progesterone-only pill or the combined pill, or get a repeat supply.
Will anyone else know?
No. Consultations are private and confidential, in our consultation room.
Page last reviewed 7 November 2026 by Nabeel Amirudin (GPhC 2087856), superintendent pharmacist. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Ask our pharmacist about your own situation.