Contraception in the UK: Your Complete Guide to Types and Prices
Contraception in the UK: Your Complete Guide to Types and Prices
Whether you're considering starting contraception or looking to switch to a more affordable option, this guide covers everything you need to know about contraceptive prices from UK online pharmacies.
NHS vs Private: Understanding Your Options
Most contraception is available free on the NHS through your GP or sexual health clinic. However, many women choose to buy privately from online pharmacies for:
- Convenience - order from home without a GP appointment
- Speed - next-day delivery available
- Privacy - discreet packaging and no face-to-face consultation
- Specific brands - access to particular brands that may not be available on the NHS
Oral Contraceptives (The Pill)
Combined Pill
Contains both oestrogen and progesterone. Popular brands include:
- Microgynon 30 - one of the most commonly prescribed
- Cilest - well-tolerated by many women
- Yasmin - may help with skin and bloating
- Rigevidon - affordable generic option
Prices: From around £8-£25 for a 3-month supply, depending on brand and pharmacy.
Progesterone-Only Pill (Mini Pill)
Contains only progesterone. Options include:
- Cerazette / Cerelle - 12-hour window for taking
- Noriday - must be taken within 3 hours of same time each day
- Hana - available over the counter (desogestrel 75mcg)
Prices: From around £6-£20 for a 3-month supply.
Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)
Available without prescription from pharmacies:
Levonorgestrel (Generic)
- Effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex
- Most effective when taken within 12 hours
- Price: From around £5-£15
ellaOne (Ulipristal Acetate)
- Effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex
- More effective than levonorgestrel, especially after 24 hours
- Price: From around £15-£35
Tip: Prices for the morning after pill vary dramatically between pharmacies. Always compare first - the same medication can cost 3x more at one pharmacy.
Other Contraceptive Methods Available Online
Contraceptive Patch (Evra)
- Changed weekly for 3 weeks, then a patch-free week
- Contains the same hormones as the combined pill
- Price: From around £15-£30 for a month's supply
Contraceptive Ring (NuvaRing)
- Inserted vaginally, worn for 3 weeks then removed for 1 week
- Lower dose of hormones than oral pills
- Price: From around £20-£40 per month
Period Delay Tablets
Norethisterone can be prescribed to delay your period for holidays or special events:
- Take 3 times daily, starting 3 days before expected period
- Period begins 2-3 days after stopping
- Price: From around £5-£15
How to Save on Private Contraception
- Compare prices - use PriceMyMeds to check across 60+ pharmacies
- Choose generics - generic pills contain the same ingredients as branded versions
- Buy multi-month supplies - most pharmacies offer bulk discounts
- Consider the NHS - if convenience isn't the priority, your GP can prescribe for free
- Set up price alerts - get notified when your contraceptive drops in price
Important Reminders
- Always complete an online consultation honestly - contraceptives have contraindications
- Report any side effects to your pharmacist or GP
- Emergency contraception is not designed for regular use
- If you miss pills, follow the guidance in your patient information leaflet
Prices compared from 60+ UK pharmacies Last updated with current pricing data
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