Free Contraception and Morning After Pill in Gillingham

Through the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service we can start you on the combined pill or the progestogen-only pill (often called the mini pill), or give you a further supply of the pill you already take. Contraception is free on the NHS, so there's no prescription charge.

Your pharmacist will ask about your health and medical history, and check your blood pressure and BMI if you're having the combined pill. When you start a new pill we supply up to 3 months so you can see how it suits you; after that, repeat supplies can last up to 12 months.

Some types of contraception can't be provided in a pharmacy, including the coil (IUD or IUS), the implant and the injection. If one of these would suit you better, we'll tell you straight away and point you to the right service, including the Medway Sexual Health Hub.

Since 29 October 2025, the morning after pill has been free from most pharmacies in England, including ours, with no GP or sexual health clinic appointment needed. You'll have a short, confidential consultation and get the pill the same day.

There are two types of emergency pill. Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) works if taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex, and ulipristal acetate (ellaOne) within 120 hours (5 days). Both work best the sooner you take them, and your pharmacist will help you choose the right one.

The copper coil (IUD) is the most effective emergency contraception and can be fitted up to 5 days after sex. We can't fit coils in the pharmacy, so if it's the right option for you we'll point you to the Medway Sexual Health Hub straight away.

Consultations take place in our private room, not at the counter, and everything you tell us is confidential. You don't need to be registered with a GP, and with your agreement we can let your GP know what you've been given so your records stay complete.

If you're under 16, you can still use the service. Your pharmacist will check you understand the choices you're making, and won't tell anyone, including your parents or carer, unless they think you or someone else is at risk of harm.

If you're sick within 2 hours of taking the morning after pill, come back or speak to a pharmacist, as you may need another dose.

The combined pill slightly raises the risk of a blood clot, though the risk is very small, affecting up to 1 in 1,000 people who use it. Call 999 or go to A&E if you have pain or swelling in one leg together with chest pain or breathlessness. If you think you have a clot in your leg but have no chest symptoms, ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111.