The Irish government has taken a significant step towards promoting women’s health by extending free contraception and medical consultations to all women up to the age of 35. This move, part of the Women’s Health Action Plan 2024-2025, marks the second phase of a groundbreaking initiative.
Initially launched in 2022, the scheme provided free contraceptives exclusively to women aged 17-25. Now, with an additional €11 million allocated, the coverage has been broadened to include women up to the age of 35. This expansion encompasses not only the cost of contraceptives but also covers consultations with healthcare providers and the expenses associated with implanting or removing contraceptives.
Under this initiative, a range of contraceptive methods including injections, implants, IUS, IUD (coils), contraceptive patches, rings, and birth control pills will be accessible at no charge. Moreover, the plan extends beyond contraception, aiming to enhance women’s overall health by increasing the availability of Specialist Menopause Clinics and ‘See-and-Treat’ Gynecology Clinics nationwide.
Additionally, the project includes the establishment of Ireland’s first public Assisted Human Reproduction Treatment Centre, the expansion of the National Venous Thromboembolism Programme, and support for disadvantaged women. Notably, cancer patients experiencing hair loss will also receive treatments in public hospitals as part of this comprehensive scheme.
This initiative underscores Ireland’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare services for women, empowering them to make informed choices about their reproductive health and overall well-being.