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 Burnham Health Pharmacy is simple and convenient. There are several ways to get the help you need:
- Visit Us: Drop into your local Burnham Health 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 Burnham Health 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 Burnham Health for My Contraception?
Using Burnham Health 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 Pottery Road, 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: Pottery Road 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
Can I get my birth control without seeing a doctor?
Potentially. Thanks to our partnership with the NHS, our pharmacy staff have the ability to do ongoing care for your oral contraception. If you have had a prescription for a pill that you like, or are trying to start for the first time, we may be able to manage your supply and provide guidance from the pharmacy without you having to see a doctor.
What if I don’t know what pill is best for me?
That is exactly what we are here for. In your private consultation, we will discuss your lifestyle, health history, and goals. These may include the desire to avoid pregnancy or goals such as controlling the symptoms of acne or heavy periods. We will clarify for you the differences between the Combined Pill and the Mini Pill so that you will be able to make a decision.
Is my consultation private?
Of course. We understand that this type of discussion is private and sensitive. It is for this reason that we use our private consultation room. Everything that is said to the pharmacist is kept private. Our staff members are trained to be supportive and focus only on your health and well-being.
Do I need to make an appointment?
It is your choice to make an appointment online as we also give you the option to stop by during our open business hours to meet with one of our team members. If you are trying to save time and have run out of your supply or have a question, come and see us.
Take Control of Your Health, Your Way.
Managing your contraception shouldn’t feel like a chore or a source of stress. If you need to start a new routine, need a refill, or want to discuss your options, we are here to help. They are able to provide you with contraception services that are accessible, confident, and dedicated to you. By offering contraception services at your local pharmacy, you are able to keep the GP services available for patients who need more.