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Contraception Clinic

Contraceptive Choice

Contraceptive choices have never been greater. There are more than a dozen options available in Ireland including contraceptive patches, the daily pill, vaginal rings, diaphragms and condoms – as well as long-term methods like implants, injectables and the coil.

An IFPA doctor can take you through the options and help you find the contraceptive method that works best for you based on your individual needs, wants and circumstances.

You can find in-depth information on every type of contraception here.

Free Contraception Scheme

Contraception is now free for 17 – 35 year olds in Ireland.  The Government’s free contraception scheme covers the cost of contraceptive consultations, appointments, prescriptions, fitting and removal of coils and implants and any other costs involved in getting your contraception if you are within this age bracket.

Follow this link for a  list of frequently asked questions about the Government’s free contraception scheme.

If you are not covered by the scheme, a contraceptive consultation costs €60. If you’re a student, we offer a discounted fee of €45.

The cost of contraception varies depending on the method. For information on costs, please click here.

We welcome medical card holders.

What Contraception Methods are Available?

These are some of the contraception methods provided by the Irish Family Planning Association, offering a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences

Contraception Methods Contraception Types
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) Hormonal coil, Copper coil (hormone-free), Implant & Injection
Hormonal Methods Combined PillMini-pill (progesterone only), Contraceptive Patch, Emergency contraception & Vaginal Ring.
Barrier Methods Condom & Diaphragm

You can find in-depth information on every type of contraception here.

What to Expect at my Appointment

Step 1 - Making an appointment

You do not need to be a previous client of the IFPA to book an appointment. Simply call your preferred clinic – Dublin City Centre or  Tallaght – or call the appointment line 0818 49 50 51 and speak to one of our receptionists.

Step 2 - Arriving at the IFPA clinic

Arrive at one of our IFPA clinics at your scheduled appointment time. Check-in with the receptionist or front desk staff.

Step 3 - Medical history review

At your appointment your doctor will start by reviewing your medical history, including any pre-existing health conditions, medications you are currently taking, and any previous experiences with contraception.

Step 4 - Discussion of contraceptive options

Your doctor will discuss various contraceptive options available based on your preferences, lifestyle, and medical history. They will explain how each method works, its effectiveness and potential side effects.

Step 5 - Prescription or provision of contraception

If you’ve chosen a hormonal contraceptive method such as the pill, patch, or ring, your doctor may write you a prescription. For barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms, they may provide you with samples or refer you to where you can obtain them.

Step 6 - Demonstration and instruction (if applicable)

If you’re opting for a contraceptive method that requires proper use or insertion, such as an intrauterine device (IUD) or contraceptive implant, your doctor will provide detailed instructions and may even demonstrate the insertion process.

Step 7 - Follow-Up and monitoring

Depending on the type of contraception chosen, your doctor may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment if needed, or address any concerns or questions you may have.

An IFPA doctor can take you through all options to help you find the best contraceptive method for you.

An IFPA doctor can take you through all options to help you find the best contraceptive method for you.

More information

See our contraception factsheets for in-depth information on long-acting contraceptives, hormonal contraceptives, barrier methods and permanent methods.

Unprotected Sex? What Next…Infographic (PDF)