Free on the NHSMini pill tablet, light blue

Mini pill

Progestogen only, no oestrogen. The everyday pill.

Free on the NHS

The mini pill is over 99% effective when taken correctly, contains no oestrogen, and is taken every day with no break. A simple routine, ordered online in minutes, with no GP appointment.

  • One pill every day, no break between packs
  • No oestrogen, often suitable when the combined pill is not
  • Reviewed by a registered pharmacist
  • Discreet packaging, free delivery

Your pharmacist confirms it is safe for you before anything is sent.

Why choose the mini pill?

Over 99% effective

When taken correctly, the mini pill is one of the most reliable forms of contraception.

No oestrogen

A good option if the combined pill does not suit you, or if you are breastfeeding.

Every day, no break

One pill every single day with no 7 day break. A simple routine that never changes.

Posted to your door

Discreet packaging, free delivery. No GP appointment and no pharmacy queue.

Order in three simple steps

  1. 01

    Answer a few questions

    A short online health check. It takes about two minutes.

  2. 02

    A pharmacist reviews it

    One of our registered pharmacists checks the mini pill is safe and right for you.

  3. 03

    Delivered to your door

    Your pill arrives in discreet packaging, free on the NHS.

Who it suits

  • Most women, including those who cannot take oestrogen
  • Those who are breastfeeding
  • Those who smoke and are 35 or over
  • Those who get migraine with aura
  • Anyone who prefers a simple every day routine

Who it may not suit

The mini pill is not usually recommended if you:

  • Have or have had breast cancer
  • Have certain types of liver disease
  • Have unexplained bleeding between periods
  • Take some medicines, such as certain epilepsy treatments
  • Would struggle to take a pill at the same time every day

If any of these apply, the combined pill may be an option. Your pharmacist will help you decide.

Mini pill questions

Is the mini pill free on the NHS?

Yes. The mini pill is free through the NHS pharmacy contraception service for eligible patients in England, including the consultation and delivery. There is nothing to pay.

How effective is the mini pill?

Over 99% effective when taken correctly, one pill at the same time each day with no break. With typical use, where pills are sometimes missed or taken late, it is around 91% effective.

How do I take the mini pill?

One pill every day with no break between packs, at roughly the same time each day. Depending on the type, you have a 3 or 12 hour window if you take one late. Your pharmacist will confirm which type you have.

Who can take the mini pill?

Most women can take the mini pill, including those who cannot take oestrogen. It is often suitable if you smoke and are over 35, are breastfeeding, get migraine with aura, or have a higher BMI. Your pharmacist will check this with you.

What if I miss a mini pill?

Take it as soon as you remember, then carry on as normal. If you are more than 3 hours late (or 12 hours for some types), you may not be protected for the next two days. Follow the NHS missed pill guidance or speak to our team.

What are the side effects of the mini pill?

The most common is a change to your bleeding pattern: irregular bleeding, spotting, or no bleeding at all. Some people also notice headaches, breast tenderness or spots. These usually settle within the first three months.

Missed a pill? See the NHS guidance. Last reviewed by Clinician name, TODO: date.

Combined pill tablet, half light blue and half dark blue

Not sure? There is also the combined pill

Two hormones, taken for 21 days with a 7 day break. Often gives lighter, more regular bleeds.

Ready to begin?

Start your free eligibility check now. It takes two minutes and there's no obligation to order.

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