Contraception service (initiation)
A private appointment to help you choose a suitable contraception option and get started confidently.
- Helps you feel informed and in control of your choices
- Supports you to start contraception with clear, practical guidance
- A discreet space to ask questions you may feel unsure about
- Helps you understand what to expect in the first few months
Private and judgement-free
A confidential conversation where you can talk openly about your needs, preferences, and concerns.
Choice matched to your routine
Support to consider what fits your lifestyle, including how often you want to think about contraception.
Clear next steps to get started
You will leave knowing what happens next and what to do if you have questions after starting.
The process
What this service involves
You will talk through your health, medicines, and what you want from contraception, including convenience and bleeding changes. You will be supported to choose an option that fits you and to understand how to start it. You will leave with a clear plan, including what to expect and when to follow up if needed.
Time to talk things through
Space to discuss benefits, downsides, and what matters most to you at your own pace.
Unhurried explanation
You can ask questions and check you feel comfortable before you decide to start.
This appointment
Free
About 30 minutes / Womens Health
A deposit is required at booking.
- Time to talk things through: Space to discuss benefits, downsides, and what matters most to you at your own pace.
- Unhurried explanation: You can ask questions and check you feel comfortable before you decide to start.
Included
What we provide
These are the key things you can expect during and after your appointment.
Personal suitability checks
A review of your health, medicines, allergies, and preferences to help guide safe, sensible options.
Start guidance
Clear advice on when and how to begin, including what to do if you miss a pill or are late starting.
Side effect expectations
A straightforward explanation of common early changes and when to seek further advice if you are worried.
Ongoing plan
Guidance on when to review how it is going and what options you have if it does not suit you.
Suitability
Who this service is for
For those beginning contraception for the first time or restarting after a break and wanting clear, private guidance.
First-time contraception users
If you want help comparing options and choosing something that fits your daily routine and preferences.
Restarting after a break
If your circumstances have changed and you want to begin again with up-to-date guidance.
People wanting reassurance
If you have concerns about side effects, bleeding changes, or effectiveness and want a calm discussion.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Initiation means a first appointment to talk through your options, check suitability, and help you get started with a method that fits you.
If you can, bring a list of your current medicines, any allergies you have, and the date of your last period if you know it.
You will discuss your health and what you want from contraception, then go through suitable options and agree clear next steps for starting.
Yes. It can be helpful if you are restarting after a break or want to switch to something that suits your routine better.
Yes, the discussion is confidential and held in a private room so you can ask questions comfortably.
You will be advised on what changes can be normal at first and what to do if you are unhappy with it, including how to review your options.
Related
Other services you can book
Appointments available this week
Book Contraception service (initiation) at Safys Chemist
Book a pharmacist appointment at Melton Road for treatment, vaccines or travel health. Free where the NHS covers it, clear prices where it does not, and most patients are seen within a few days.
Next available slots
Monday to Saturday, morning and afternoon