Some of our local pharmacies are working with NHS England to pilot a contraception service in community pharmacy, which includes routine review (a “pill check”), medication supply and may also include initiation for those considering the use of contraceptive medication for the first time, or restarting after a break.
Why pharmacy?
The aim of the pilot is to create additional capacity in primary care and sexual health clinics by extending access to oral contraception through a community pharmacy.
The pharmacist will conduct a confidential consultation with the person and, pending clinical appropriateness, issue a supply of oral contraception. To be eligible to access this service a person can:
- Wish to be started on oral contraception either for the first time or after a break in supply
- Already be taking an oral contraceptive that has been prescribed and need a next supply of contraception
What will my consultation include?
A trained pharmacist will carry out the consultation with you, which may include checks checks such as:
- Blood pressure
- Weight
- Asking about your medical history
The pharmacist will discuss how to use your contraceptive and advise on potential side effects. They will also discuss any concerns you have and identify ways of managing these.
