Ireland currently provides free contraceptives to women aged 17 to 31.
The latest extension to the existing scheme, which came into force on January 1, will now include women aged 31, a move previously announced in Ireland’s 2024 Budget.
Ireland’s free contraception scheme first launched in September 2022, initially targeting 17 to 25-year-olds.
Last year, the target audience was expanded to include those aged 26 to 30.
As of this week, 31-year-old women also have access to free contraceptives.
Ireland’s Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said: “I am pleased to announce the further expansion of free contraception for 31-year-olds.”
Free contraceptives now available for 17-31 year olds in Ireland“Progressively improving access to contraception is a key priority for this government, supporting positive sexual health and family planning choices,” he added.
“Given that the cost of contraception is typically borne by women, this scheme is an important support for women’s health and equality.
“Furthermore, given the current cost-of-living pressures, this is another support that will help reduce costs for women and their families.”
The free contraception scheme is aimed at women, girls and other people who identify as transgender or non-binary, usually reside in Ireland, and whose doctor has determined that prescription contraception is appropriate.
The Irish Government has allocated approximately €41.5 million to support the scheme in 2024. This budget includes the cost of consultations with GPs, family planning, student health centers and primary care centres, and contraceptive prescriptions available through the Health Service Executive (HSE).
These options include long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), emergency contraceptives, and oral contraceptive pills, patches, and rings.
Installation, removal, injection and inspection of LARCs are also free under this scheme.
