Contraception gives you control to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
Find information about each method, how it works, how effective it is and the main advantages and disadvantages at Brook.
You are now able to start and renew oral contraception from some local pharmacies for free and without an appointment. You don’t need to see your GP. You can view local pharmacies offering the service on this list.
The pharmacist will speak with you confidentially and decide which checks you might need including a BMI and blood pressure measurement for combined oral hormone contraception. Find out more at Gov.uk.
Pharmacies providing contraception without an appointment in Kent and Medway
You can start or order repeat hormonal supplies (the depo injection*, the pill, Evra Patch, Sayana Press or NuvaRing at www.kentcht.nhs.uk/freecontraception
*If you received your last depo injection through this service to book your next injection contact 0300 790 0245 for Kent or 0300 123 1678 for Medway or text 07401 302 946.
Sayana Press is an easy-to-use hormonal birth control option for women. It is an injection, with a very small needle, that women can give to themselves to prevent pregnancies for three months.
Implant: An implant is a small rod inserted under the skin that releases hormones to prevent ovulation. If you would like to have an implant fitted, removed or exchanged please call the Central Access Team, on 0300 790 0245 to book an appointment.
Intrauterine contraception, often called the coil, is highly effective, with over 99 per cent protection and suitability for all ages. Two types are available: the Mirena, which releases progesterone and the copper IUD, which contains no hormones and begins working immediately. The Mirena typically leads to lighter or no periods after an initial settling‑in phase, while the copper IUD may cause periods to become heavier or more painful.
Both devices are small T‑shaped units placed in the womb and can usually be fitted at any point in the menstrual cycle, provided pregnancy is ruled out. Fitting involves a brief examination similar to a smear test and may cause some discomfort, though many women experience little pain. Some cramping and light bleeding afterwards is normal. The devices last five to ten years depending on the type, and users need to keep track of their replacement date.
Side effects can include irregular bleeding in the first few months with the Mirena, or heavier periods with the copper IUD. Rare risks include infection, expulsion, perforation of the womb and, if pregnancy occurs, a slightly higher chance of an ectopic pregnancy. Neither device protects against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms are still advised with new partners. The copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception for up to five days after unprotected sex. Overall, both the Mirena and the copper IUD are safe, effective and widely used options.
If you would like a coil insertion, removal or exchange. Please complete the online IUCD pathway request form.