LOCAL pharmacies in Gloucestershire have supplied nearly 4,000 morning-after pills to women over a nine-month period since the NHS made it available free-of-charge in October 2025.

Around 500 emergency contraception consultations took place each month between October 2025 and June 2026, without women needing to book a GP or sexual health clinic appointment.

NHS Gloucestershire said pharmacy teams also support women with their ongoing contraception.

Dr Hein Le Roux, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, said: “Making the emergency contraceptive pill free through community pharmacies is a welcome step forward for women’s health.

“It gives women quick and easy access to emergency contraception exactly when they need it without needing to wait for an appointment.

“Community pharmacies can also help women start or continue the contraceptive pill, meaning they can leave with a longer-term plan, not just a one-off solution.”

Pharmacies will offer women a consultation in a private room where they will ask relevant health-related questions to ascertain the best help.

If there isn’t a pharmacist available at the time, the team may book an appointment for you to return at a convenient time.

Ravneet Chahal, a Community Pharmacist, said: “Women can now visit their local pharmacy and have a confidential consultation with a pharmacist or trained pharmacy technician before receiving the emergency contraceptive pill on the same day.

“Pharmacists can also help if you are considering your regular contraception options or if you are starting contraception for the first time or have had a break from contraception.

“We will offer advice and, where appropriate, supply your regular oral contraception without you needing to see your GP.”

Women can find their nearest participating pharmacy using the NHS website’s pharmacy finder or emergency contraception search.