The NHS Contraception Service is a partnership between the NHS and community pharmacies, aimed at helping you access your regular oral contraception supplies.
Whether you’re starting oral contraception for the first time, need your supply or looking to continue after a break, we can assist you.
Finding the best oral contraceptive pill for your needs starts with a conversation with our clinical team. Our friendly and professional pharmacists are here to offer personalized advice and support. They will ask you some simple questions to determine the most suitable contraceptive option for you and address any concerns you may have. Your privacy and comfort are our top priorities, and all consultations are conducted in a private consultation room, ensuring that everything discussed remains confidential. We pride ourselves on offering a supportive, non-judgemental environment for all our patients seeking Oral Contraceptive Pills.
How Do I Access the NHS Contraception Service?
Accessing the NHS Contraception Service at Chertsey Pharmacy is simple and convenient. There are several ways to get the help you need:
- Visit Us: Drop into your local Chertsey Pharmacy to speak with one of our pharmacists about your contraceptive needs. We’re here to provide expert guidance and answer any questions.
- Book an Appointment: If you prefer, you can book an appointment online. We offer flexible appointment times to suit your schedule.
- Walk-in Consultations: We welcome walk-in consultations, making it easy for you to access our services. If you need advice or a prescription refill, simply come by during our opening hours, and our team will be happy to assist you.
What Contraceptives are Available Through the NHS Contraception Service?
The NHS Contraception Service at Chertsey Pharmacy provides access to two types of oral contraceptive pills:
- Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC): The COC, often referred to as ‘the pill’, contains both oestrogen and progestogen. It prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs. When taken correctly, the COC is over 99% effective. In addition to contraception, it can help with managing PMS, endometriosis, acne, and heavy or painful periods. The COC is available in two main types:
- Everyday Pill: This version includes dummy pills without hormones.
- 21 Day Pill: You take the pill for 21 days and then take a 7 day break.
Progestogen Only Pill (POP): The POP, also known as ‘the mini pill’, contains progestogen, a hormone that works similarly to progesterone. Like the COC, the POP prevents ovulation and is over 99% effective when taken correctly. The mini pill is taken daily at the same time, and each pack contains 28 pills, with no break between packs. Both of these options are available through the NHS Contraception Service.
Why Should I Use Chertsey Pharmacy for My Contraception?
Using Chertsey Pharmacy for your contraception needs offers several key benefits:
- Convenience: No appointment is needed. Simply walk into your nearest pharmacy and receive the support you need. We aim to make contraception easy and accessible.
- Support for the NHS: By using Chertsey Pharmacy, you help free up valuable resources in GP practices and sexual health clinics, allowing them to focus on more complex or specialist issues.
- Expert Advice: Chertsey Pharmacy pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can offer tailored advice and guidance, ensuring you receive the best possible service for your needs and find the best oral contraceptive pill for your body.
FAQ
How do I actually go about getting my regular pill from the pharmacy?
It’s honestly a very straightforward process through the NHS partnership we have here. Whether you’re just starting out or simply need a refill after a break, you can just pop into Chertsey Pharmacy for a chat with our clinical team to get your supplies sorted without needing a doctor’s appointment.
Will I have to talk about my private business in front of other customers?
Not at all, as your privacy is a massive priority for us. We handle every single conversation in a completely private room, so you can feel comfortable and relaxed while we go over the simple health questions needed to find the right fit for your body.
What’s the main difference between the standard pill and the “mini” one?
The combined pill uses two hormones to stop your ovaries from releasing eggs, while the progestogen-only version—often called the mini pill—works slightly differently but is just as effective. Both are over 99% reliable if you stay on top of your daily routine, and we can help you figure out which one suits your lifestyle better.
Can the pill help me with things other than just contraception?
It actually can, which is a great bonus for a lot of people. The combined pill is often used to help manage things like really painful periods, heavy bleeding, or even acne and PMS symptoms, so it’s worth mentioning those concerns during our private chat.
Is there a gap between packs, or do I take them every single day?
That really depends on the specific type you’re using. Some combined pills have a seven-day break or “dummy” pills included, while the mini pill is taken every single day at the same time without any pauses at all—we’ll make sure you’re 100% clear on the instructions for whichever one you take home.
Why should I choose the pharmacy instead of just going to my GP?
Using Chertsey Pharmacy is usually much faster and more convenient since you don’t have to wait weeks for a GP slot. Plus, by coming to see our trained pharmacists, you’re actually helping the NHS by freeing up doctor appointments for people with more complex medical issues.
Ready to take the next step?
Managing your routine health needs shouldn’t feel like a difficult chore or a long wait in a doctor’s surgery. At Chertsey Pharmacy, we’re dedicated to providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can get your regular supplies quickly and easily. Our expert team is ready to offer the personalized guidance you deserve to stay in control of your well-being. Stop worrying about your next refill and let us handle the details for you today.