Young women can register for free contraception through their GP from Wednesday onwards.
The change forms part of the Health Act 2022, which was passed by the Oireachtas earlier this year. The scheme was created to reduce expenses for women in line with cost of living measures.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly previously welcomed the signing of the bill into law. He said that it would help alleviate the financial burdens on women who use contraceptives.
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The Minister stated: “Given that the costs of prescription contraception are typically faced by women, the scheme will impact positively on gender equity, reducing costs for women, but also benefitting their partners and families, starting with women aged 17-25.”
The scheme will cover both the cost of contraception itself and the consultations needed to discuss contraception with medical professionals. Contraception can be expensive, as the cost of the birth control pill can cost between €65-100 every six months. The cost of an intra uterine device (IUD) can range anywhere between €250-320.
The Irish Pharmacy’s Union previously welcomed the rollout but said in a recent Tweet that all women in Ireland should be entitled to free contraception, regardless of age and without prescription.
The IPU wrote: “Contraception for women without prescription is available in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and New Zealand. All Irish women should have the option to access contraception direct from their pharmacy without prescription and without charge.”
Women who access contraception through a medical card can also avail of the new scheme. The cost of removing contraceptive devices, such as IUDs, is also covered under the plans.
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