Need the morning after pill in Ireland? This guide explains how emergency contraception from a pharmacy works, when to take it, who can get it, common side effects and costs including free options.
How the morning after pill works and when to take it
Pharmacists can supply oral emergency contraception after a short private consultation. It helps delay or prevent ovulation. The sooner you take it the better it works. Some products can be taken up to 3 days after unprotected sex and others up to 5 days. Your pharmacist will advise which option is suitable for you.
If you vomit within a few hours of taking a dose, contact a pharmacist. You may need another dose. Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Eligibility and the pharmacy consultation
Most people can be supplied after a quick check of timing, medicines that may interact and relevant medical history. Bring photo ID if you look under 18. Tell the pharmacist if you are breastfeeding or have used enzyme inducing medicines as these can affect choice or dose.
If oral emergency contraception is not suitable for you we will explain alternatives and how to access further care. For ongoing contraception, you can arrange a prescription with our online doctor partner.
Side effects, periods and alcohol
Short lived effects can include nausea, headache, tummy pain or changes to your next period. Your period can be a few days earlier or later than usual. If it is more than 7 days late after using the morning after pill, take a pregnancy test and speak to a pharmacist or GP. Alcohol does not reduce how the pill works but vomiting soon after a dose can. Avoid heavy drinking for a few hours after taking it.
Costs and free options
Emergency contraception is free for medical card holders. Under the Free Contraception Scheme, many people aged 17 to 35 are also covered at participating services. Outside these routes a standard pharmacy fee applies. Ask us for todays price.
When to seek medical advice
Get urgent advice if you have severe lower abdominal pain, unusual bleeding or signs of ectopic pregnancy. If you vomit soon after taking a pill, contact a pharmacist for advice. If you have had unprotected sex again in the same cycle, ask about further protection.
Supports available in Ireland
- HSE Sexual Wellbeing, emergency contraception
- HSE Sexual Wellbeing, free contraception eligibility
- Citizens Information, contraception services
FAQs
How late can I take the morning after pill?
Some pills can be used up to 3 days and others up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it the better it works. Ask a pharmacist as soon as possible.
Will it delay my period?
Your next period can arrive a few days earlier or later. If it is more than 7 days late, take a pregnancy test and seek advice.
What side effects should I expect?
You may have nausea, headache or tummy pain. If you vomit within a few hours of the dose, contact a pharmacist. You may need another dose.
Can I drink alcohol after taking it?
Alcohol does not reduce effectiveness directly. Avoid heavy drinking for a few hours because vomiting can affect absorption.
Does body weight affect how well it works?
Effectiveness may be lower at higher body weight for some oral options. The pharmacist will choose the most suitable product for you and advise on the safest plan.
Do I need a prescription or GP visit?
No prescription is needed for pharmacy supplied oral emergency contraception after consultation.
Is it free?
It is free for medical card holders and for many aged 17 to 35 under the Free Contraception Scheme at participating services. We will confirm eligibility with you.
Need advice now? Ask a Pharmacist.
