What is contraception?
Contraception means preventing pregnancy. There are many methods with different effectiveness rates. The most reliable methods are long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as the implant, coil, or injection, with failure rates under 1%. Daily methods like the pill are reliable when taken consistently.
Common symptoms
- Not applicable, contraception is preventive
When to see a doctor
Book a GP when you want to start contraception for the first time, are considering switching methods, have had unprotected sex and need emergency contraception (act quickly, sooner is more effective), or are having problems with your current method.
Seek urgent help if
- Severe headache with visual changes (could indicate a blood clot in the brain, stop contraception, call 111 or 999)
- Calf pain or swelling, or sudden shortness of breath (possible blood clot, call 111 or 999)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Sudden severe migraine that's different from your usual
How a private GP can help
A consultation typically covers:
- Discussion of all available methods based on your needs and medical history
- Combined hormonal contraception (pill, patch, ring)
- Progestogen-only pill (mini pill), useful if combined methods aren't suitable
- Emergency contraception (ulipristal acetate or levonorgestrel), effectiveness drops the longer you wait
- Referral to NHS sexual health clinic for long-acting methods (IUD, IUS, implant, injection) which are free
- Annual review and prescription renewal
What we don't do
- Insertion of coils, implants, or other long-acting methods, refer to NHS sexual health clinics, which provide these free
- NHS prescriptions
What it costs
An online consultation about contraception starts at £79 for a 20-minute video appointment. In-pharmacy consultations are £129 and home visits are £189. Your consultation includes one private prescription if appropriate, and a sick note for work if needed. You pay the pharmacy separately for any medication.
See the full pricing breakdown for what's included with each appointment type.