Your Pill, Your Way: Oral Contraception

At Manor Chemist, we believe healthcare should
be simple, safe, and personal. That’s why we’re proud to offer a new NHS-funded service that allows you to access oral contraception directly from our pharmacy—without needing a GP appointment. 

Whether you’re starting the pill for the first time or renewing your prescription, our friendly pharmacists are here to help you make informed choices about your reproductive health. 

Oral Contraception vs Other Methods: What’s the Difference?

While oral contraceptive pills are a popular and effective choice, they’re just one option among many. Here’s how they compare to other methods of contraception: 

1. Oral Contraceptive Pills  

• Types: Combined oestrogen & progesterone pill ("COC") and progesterone-only pill ("POP"). 
• How they work: Prevent ovulation and/or thicken cervical mucus. 
• Pros: Easy to use, reversible, regulates periods, widely available. 
• Cons: Must be taken daily, may cause side effects like nausea or mood changes. 

2. Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) 

• Types: Includes implants, injections, and intrauterine devices (IUDs).     

Implant

+ve: Lasts Up to 3 years
+ve: Very effective & low maintenance
-ve: Requires minor procedure 

Injection

+ve: Lasts 8–13 weeks
+ve: No daily pill, discreet
-ve: May delay fertility return 

IUD (Copper or Hormonal)

+ve: 5–10 years
+ve: Long-term, low hormone (or hormone-free)
-ve: Can cause cramping or spotting  

3. Barrier Methods 

Types: Includes condoms, diaphragms, and caps.  

• Pros: No hormones, protects against STIs (condoms)
  Cons: Less effective if not used correctly and must be used every time. 

4. Emergency Contraception: Used after unprotected sex to prevent
pregnancy.  

• Types: Morning-after pill or copper IUD.Not for regular use—available separately at Manor Chemist. 

Choosing the right method depends on your lifestyle, health, and personal preferences. At Manor Chemist, we’re here to help you explore your options and find what works best for you—starting with the pill, now available through our free NHS service. 

What Is Oral Contraception?

Oral contraceptives—commonly known as “the pill”—are medications taken daily to prevent pregnancy. There are two main types available through our NHS service: 

1. Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COC or COCP)  

• Contains two hormones: estrogen and progestogen. 
• Works by stopping ovulation and changing the lining of the womb and cervical mucus. 
• Often used to regulate periods, reduce acne, and ease menstrual pain. 

2. Progesterone-Only Pill (POP)  

• Contains only progestogen. 
• Suitable for people who can’t take estrogen (e.g. breastfeeding mothers or those with certain health risks). 
• Must be taken at the same time every day to be effective. 

Pro's & Cons

Combined Pill

+ve: Can help to regulate periods
+ve: Reduced PMS
+ve: May lower risk of ovarian and womb cancer   

-ve Not suitable for smokers
-ve Not suitable for those over 35
-ve Not suitable for those
with high blood pressure     

Progesterone-Only Pill

+ve Safe for more people
+ve Fewer hormone-related side effects

-ve May cause irregular bleeding,
-ve Strict timing needed (within
4 hours)  

Oral Contraceptive Cancer Risks & Long-Term Safety

Oral contraceptives are among the most studied
medicines in the world. Here’s what the evidence shows:  

• Combined pills may slightly increase the risk of breast and cervical cancer, but they also reduce the risk of ovarian, womb, and bowel cancer. 
• Progesterone-only pills have minimal cancer risk and are considered very safe for long-term use. 

Overall, the benefits of oral contraception often outweigh the risks for most people—but our pharmacists will help you decide what’s right for you.

Final Thoughts

Contraception is a personal choice—and it should be supported with care, clarity, and respect. At Manor Chemist, we’re here to make that journey easier. Whether you’re exploring your options or simply need a refill, our NHS oral contraception service is designed with you
in mind. 

Why Choose Manor Chemist?

We’re more than just a pharmacy—we’ve been supporting local healthcare for over 30 years in Mitcham and we are your
local healthcare partner. Here’s what makes our service stand out:  

• Free NHS service: No cost for your consultation or medication. 
• No GP appointment needed: Just pop in or book a time with us. 
• Quick and discreet: Get your pill without the wait or worry. 
• Expert advice: Our trained pharmacists offer confidential, non-judgmental support.

How to Get Started

Getting the pill at Manor Chemist is easy:  

1. Visit us in person or click here to book a consultation online.  
2. Chat with our pharmacist about your health and contraception needs. 
3. Receive your prescription and start your pill—often on the same day.