Sexual Health & Contraception

 

We provide a full range of contraceptive services and sexual health advice. During your consultation, your GP will discuss all available options and help you choose the method that best suits your needs.

Our GPs are highly experienced in fitting long‑acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), including:

  • Coils (IUDs/IUSs)
  • Contraceptive implant (“the bar”)
  • Contraceptive injection

We also offer sexual health advice, STI screening, and support for any sexual health concerns.

To explore your options, please make an appointment with your GP.

National Free Contraception Service (Ages 17–35)

Women and people with a uterus aged 17 to 35 can access free contraception, even without a medical card.

If you are aged 17–35:

  • GP visits for contraception are free
  • Prescriptions are free at participating pharmacies
  • Contraception methods listed below are free
  • Fittings, removals, and follow‑up care for implants and coils are free
  • Emergency contraception is free

Your document notes:

“You do not have to pay for your GP visit or any prescriptions you get.”

What Costs Are Covered?

The free contraception service includes:

  • GP appointments for contraception advice and repeat prescriptions
  • All prescriptions related to contraception
  • Your chosen method of contraception
  • Fitting and removal of implants and coils
  • Follow‑up care related to your implant or coil
  • Emergency contraception (morning‑after pill)

Types of Contraception Covered

Short‑Acting Contraceptives

These require regular use or remembering to take them:

  • Contraceptive patch
  • Contraceptive ring
  • Combined pill
  • Progesterone‑only pill

Long‑Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)

These work for months or years without daily action:

  • Implant
  • Injection
  • IUD (copper coil)
  • IUS (hormonal coil)
  • IUB Ballerine Coil (copper)

How to Access Free Contraception

To use the service, you must be:

  • A woman or person with a uterus
  • Aged 17–35
  • Living in Ireland

Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your options. You will need to provide:

  • PPS number
  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Address

This confirms eligibility for the free contraception service. You will also need your PPS number when collecting prescriptions at the pharmacy.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g., missed pill, broken condom).

If you are aged 17–35, the morning‑after pill is free at participating pharmacies. You will need to provide your PPS number, name, and address to confirm eligibility.

Useful Links & Resources

Disclaimer

This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. While we aim to keep content up to date, errors may occur. Please discuss any health concerns with your GP. If you have suggestions or updates that may help others, we welcome your feedback.