Patient Notice: Easier Access to Your Oral Contraceptive (OC) Pill

Posted by: Clare - Posted on:


You no longer need to request a repeat prescription from the GP for your oral contraceptive pill.
If you’re already taking the pill and your prescription is due for renewal, you can now get your ongoing supply directly from your local community pharmacy through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service.

Who can use this service?
To be eligible to access this service a person must;
•Be seeking to be initiated on an OC, or
•Be seeking to obtain a further supply of their ongoing OC
o Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) – from menarche up to and including 49 years of age; or
o Progestogen Only Pill (POP) – from menarche up to and including 54 years of age.
•You’ve had no recent problems or changes with your contraception –
•You are due or nearly due for your next supply.


Your pharmacist will offer a quick confidential consultation to check your blood pressure (if needed), ask about any side effects, and safely issue your supply — all without needing an appointment at the GP surgery.

Why this change?
Easier and faster access — many pharmacies are open evenings and weekends – Free NHS service – Helps free up GP appointments for more complex care – Supports patient choice and convenience.


Next steps:

Visit your local participating pharmacy (you can search www.nhs.ukto find one near you) – Bring any packaging or recent information about your current pill – Your GP record will be updated automatically to ensure continuity of care.