Contraception

Contraceptive pill guide

Learn about the different types of pill, how they work, and how to access them for FREE from Well Pharmacy.

Book an appointment More about contraception

The contraceptive pill is one of the UK's most popular forms of contraception due to its convenience and flexibility. Whether you're an existing user with a few questions, considering the pill for the first time, or looking to switch from another type of contraception – our pharmacy teams are here to support you on your contraception journey.

Getting oral contraception through Well Pharmacy is simple, convenient and could save you a trip to the GP.

Last reviewed: October 2026

Next review: October 2029

Reviewed by: Elliott Patrick, Head of NHS Services

How it works

1. Book an appointment or pop in store

Pre-book a consultation online or simply ask in store to get started.

2. Have a quick consultation

One of our trained pharmacists will discuss your options, answer any questions and may check your height, weight and blood pressure.

3. Get your oral contraception

If oral contraception is a suitable option for you, we'll provide you with a FREE supply of up to 12 months' at a time.

4. Come back when you need us

If oral contraception is a suitable option for you, we'll provide you with a FREE supply of up to 12 months' at a time.

Why get the contraceptive pill from Well Pharmacy?

  • Save a trip to the GP
  • Easy access to repeat supplies
  • FREE through NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service1
  • Quick, confidential consultation
  • Local convenience

What is the contraceptive pill?

The contraceptive pill, most commonly referred to as 'the pill,' is one of the most widely recognised forms of hormonal birth control.

The pill comes as a small tablet that you take each day, by swallowing whole with water. Most people take it at home as part of their morning routine, but others might prefer to take it later in the day. The most important thing is finding a time that works for you and remembering to take it as directed. You don't need to take the contraceptive pill with food, making it easy to fit into your daily schedule.

Combined pill vs mini pill: what's the difference?

There are two main types of contraceptive pill available: the combined pill, which contains two different synthetic hormones, and the mini pill, which only contains one type of hormone.

The right option for you will depend on your health, lifestyle and personal preferences. The good news is, both are effective forms of contraception – the main difference is the hormones they contain.

Combined pill Mini pill
Contains Oestrogen + progesterone Progesterone only
How it's taken One tablet, daily, with a 7-day break each month, or 7 days of inactive dummy pills (this is usually when you'll have your period) One tablet, daily with no break or placebo days
Why people choose it Well-established option with lots of brands available. Some people find it helps regulate periods. May be suitable for people who can't or prefer not to take oestrogen, such as those prone to blood clots.
How it works Synthetic versions of the female hormones prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. Thickens cervical mucus, acting as a plug to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.
Effectiveness Over 99% if used correctly2 Over 99% if used correctly3
Possible side effects* Headaches, mood changes, nausea, dizziness, tender breasts.4 Acne, mood swings, weight gain, changes to libido.5
Time taken for fertility to return after stopping use About 1 month2.1 About 1 month3.1

*There is not enough evidence to say whether side effects are directly caused by either pill. If you are still experiencing problematic side effects 3 months after starting the pill, speak to a pharmacist or doctor who can assess your options.

Side effects of the contraceptive pill

Side effects can vary slightly between the two different types of contraceptive pill, and they can also differ from person to person.

You may find that side effects are more prominent during the first few months of starting the pill while your body adjusts, and then they might ease off.

Commonly reported contraceptive pill side effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Breast tenderness
  • Spotting or irregular bleeding
  • Mood changes
  • Changes to periods (heaviness, pain, regularity, etc)

If you're struggling with side effects or feel like your current pill isn't the right fit, it's worth speaking to a healthcare professional to explore possible alternative options.

While there's no direct evidence to suggest that the contraceptive pill causes weight gain, if you're experiencing this as a side effect then we can help support you with weight management.

How effective is the contraceptive pill?

When taken correctly, both forms of the contraceptive pill are a highly effective way to prevent pregnancy – over 99%.

Like most forms of contraception, the pill works best when used exactly as instructed. Missing pills, taking them late or forgetting to start a new pack on time can reduce the effectiveness.

A pharmacist can help answer any questions you have about taking your pill correctly, and what to do if something doesn't go to plan.

What to do if you miss a pill

First thing's first: try not to worry. A missed pill happens to lots of people, and it's one of the most common questions pharmacists get asked. The important thing is taking sensible precautions.

What you should do next depends on:

  • Which pill you're taking
  • How many pills you've missed
  • Where you are in your pill pack

The best thing to do is check the patient information leaflet that came with your pill and follow the advice provided. In the meantime, you might be advised to use an additional form of contraception (such as condoms) for the next 7 days. If you've had unprotected sex over the previous 7 days, you might also be advised to take emergency contraception.

It's always better to speak to a pharmacist if you're unsure. Remember – missing a pill is surprisingly common and our pharmacists are here to help, not judge. A quick conversation can help you understand what to do next and any extra precautions you might need to take.

Taking the contraceptive pill on holiday

The contraceptive pill can still be taken when you travel – whether you're staying in the UK or heading abroad. If you've got a trip coming up, it's a good idea to:

  • Plan ahead - make sure you have enough pills to last the duration of your holiday
  • If flying, pack your pill in your hand luggage
  • Set reminders if you’re travelling across time zones
  • Continue taking your pill according to package instructions supplied with the medication

If you're unsure how a time difference might affect your pill schedule, speak to a pharmacist before you travel.

FAQs

What's the difference between the combined pill and the mini pill?
The main difference is that the combined pill contains two synthetic hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), while the mini pill contains progesterone only. Both pills have the same effectiveness when used correctly (over 99%), and both take around 1 month for fertility to return to normal after stopping use. Associated side effects are also similar across both pills.
Can you get the contraceptive pill from a pharmacy?
Yes, we offer FREE access to oral contraception for eligible patients. Whether you're completely new to the pill or have an existing prescription with your doctor, you can come to us and we'll help you get convenient access to the contraceptive pill. Simply book your consultation online or pop into your local store for a chat to get started.
Do you need to take the contraceptive pill every day?
Typically, yes, you'll need to take the pill daily in order for it to be effective – but this should be clearly outlined in the information leaflet that comes with the medication. For the combined pill, you'll usually have a 7-day break each month, which may consist of placebo pills or no pills at all.
Do you need to take the contraceptive pill at the exact same time each day?
Not necessarily, but most people find it helpful to take their pill at roughly the same time each day as part of a regular routine, to avoid forgetting. Setting an alarm or reminder on your phone might be a useful prompt.
Will the contraceptive pill stop your period?
This depends on the type of pill you're taking and how your body responds to it. When taken according to the package instructions, you'll usually still have a period, but you might notice milder symptoms. For example, some users report improved period pain and less frequent headaches on the combined pill4.1, whereas some mini pill users report lighter, less frequent periods with use5.1.
How long does it take for the contraceptive pill to work?
This can vary depending on which type of pill you're taking, when in your cycle you started taking it, and whether you've previously been using another form of contraception. The healthcare professional that supplies the medication will explain any additional precautions you might need to take when starting a new contraceptive pill.
Will you get pregnant if you miss a pill?
Not necessarily. If you miss a pill, then you should refer to the package instructions for the medicine immediately. Here you should find guidance on what to do, but you can also speak to a healthcare professional for advice. You may need to use an additional form of contraception for a short period of time, or seek emergency contraception.
References

1. NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service, NHS England. Accessed 7 October 2026.

2. What is the combined pill?, NHS UK. Last reviewed February 2024.

3. What is the progestogen-only pill?, NHS UK. Last reviewed February 2024.

4. Side effects and risks of the combined pill, NHS UK. Last reviewed February 2024.

5. Side effects and risks of the progestogen-only pill, NHS UK. Last reviewed February 2024.

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