Free Contraception Scheme
Free contraception, including the pill, LARC methods (the coil or implant), the morning-after pill and the consultations that go with them. Some extras are not covered, such as an ultrasound scan sometimes needed to remove an implant or coil.
Last checked October 2026
What it is
Free contraception for women, girls, trans, non-binary and intersex people aged 17 to 35, covering the GP visit, the prescription and LARC (long-acting reversible contraception) fitting, removal and check-ups. The morning-after pill is free at a participating pharmacy without a prescription. The Department of Health put the total allocation for the scheme at €48m in 2024. Budget 2027 announced that free contraception will be extended from age 35 to 37. The Budget documents give no start date, so check the HSE page for the current age range.
Who can get it
- You are ordinarily resident in Ireland
- You are a woman, girl, or a trans, non-binary or intersex person
- You are aged 17 to 35
- Covers the contraceptive pill, patch and ring, the injection, implant and coil (which are long-acting reversible contraception, known as LARC) and emergency contraception. The copper coil is not free as emergency contraception, though the GP appointment and insertion are covered.
- Covers the GP visit and prescription fees, plus LARC fitting, removal and follow-up check-ups. An ultrasound scan sometimes needed to help remove an implant or coil is not covered, so you may have to pay for it.
- You go to a GP or clinic that offers the service. The morning-after pill is the exception: a pharmacy offering the service gives it free without a prescription, once you give your PPS number, name, address and date of birth.
How to apply
Applications go through HSE. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 7 October 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Related guides
Not sure if this one is you?
Describe your situation in your own words and the assistant shows every support you might qualify for, this one included. Free, no sign up, anonymous.
Check what you might qualify for →Grants change all the time.
Leave your email and I will tell you if the Free Contraception Scheme changes, or a new support opens that fits you. It is free and there is no spam.