Contraception

What is contraception?

Contraception is all about giving you more control over your reproductive health and helping to prevent pregnancy. There are lots of different types of contraception available, so you can find something that suits your lifestyle and preferences, whether that's daily convenience or a longer-term solution that requires minimal maintenance.

If you're considering contraception for the first time and don't know where to start, looking to switch methods, or continuing an existing prescription, we can help you find an option that feels right for you.

Why do people use contraception?

Access to contraception gives you the freedom to make choices that feel right for you, whether that's simply a reliable way to prevent pregnancy, or the ability to control and plan your own family timeline.

Whatever the circumstances, finding a contraceptive method that suits your lifestyle gives you one less thing to worry about. It's also perfectly okay to review and change your contraception method over time, as your lifestyle and preferences might evolve.

Different types of contraception prevent pregnancy in different ways. Depending on the method, contraception may work by preventing ovulation, preventing sperm from reaching an egg or preventing a fertilised egg from implanting in the womb.

There are several different contraception methods, and the right option for you can depend on your health, lifestyle and personal preferences. Contraception can be hormonal or non-hormonal, and methods can also differ in how often you need to use or replace them.

The good news is, there are lots of options out there, so whether you're looking for an easy fit into your daily routine or something fuss-free with minimal maintenance, you can find something to suit your needs.

Hormonal contraception uses hormones to help prevent pregnancy. Different options include:

• Contraceptive pill – including the combined pill and progestogen-only pill (mini pill)
• Contraceptive patch
• Vaginal ring
• Contraceptive injection
• Contraceptive implant
• Hormonal coil (IUS)

Non-hormonal methods prevent pregnancy without using hormones. Options include:

• Copper coil (IUD)
• Condoms

Some contraceptive methods require regular action (like taking a daily pill), while others can provide protection over much longer periods of time with little ongoing maintenance.

Whatever you're looking for, understanding what's out there can help you make an informed decision, and our pharmacists can help advise you, too.

We offer a range of contraceptive pills, including emergency contraception, FREE of charge to eligible patients in England, as per the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service.¹

Pop in or book a consultation (a 10-minute chat), and we'll provide you with a 3-month supply of your chosen contraception if you're new to the service, or 6-12 months' worth if you're continuing existing treatment.

✓ No GP appointment needed

✓ Start the contraceptive pill or continue an existing pill

✓ Switch oral contraception where appropriate

✓ Speak privately with a pharmacist

✓ Available through participating pharmacies in England

Like all medicine, some hormonal forms of contraception have associated side effects, although there's not enough evidence to determine whether these are directly caused by the contraception itself.

Some side effects might include headaches, nausea, acne, painful periods and increased risk of thrush – depending on your circumstances, and the type of contraception you're using. We offer a variety of products to help manage some of the most common side effects of contraception.