If you want to get the pill online in Ireland, the process is straightforward. You can complete a quick medical questionnaire with an online doctor, and if suitable, a prescription is sent to your chosen Irish pharmacy by Healthmail for delivery or collection. If you already have a prescription, you can send it to the pharmacy in minutes and choose discreet home delivery.
Combined vs progestogen only pill: key differences
The combined pill contains oestrogen and progestogen. It suits many people who want regular withdrawal bleeds and predictable cycles. It may not be suitable if you have migraine with aura, uncontrolled blood pressure, a history of clots, or if you smoke and are over 35.
The progestogen only pill contains no oestrogen and is often suitable if the combined pill does not suit you. Newer options have wider timing windows.
How to order the contraceptive pill online
Step 1: choose an online doctor and complete a short medical questionnaire. You can use our online doctor partner, Zava, to easily order your prescription.
Step 2: if the pill is suitable, the doctor issues a prescription and sends it to your chosen pharmacy by Healthmail.
Step 3: the pharmacy prepares your order and you select delivery or collection. Orders are packed discreetly for privacy. You can keep repeats on file so future supplies are simple to arrange online.
Prefer to speak directly with a doctor?
Easily book a video consultation with a registered doctor via Eirdoc.
Prefer to see a doctor in person?
For a quick overview of eligibility and simple steps, see Free contraception in Ireland.
Side effects of the pill
- Nausea or mild stomach upset, often improves after the first packs.
- Breast tenderness or bloating.
- Breakthrough bleeding or spotting, usually settles within months.
- Headache, mood changes or low libido.
- Skin changes such as acne improvement or, less often, flare.
Seek urgent medical help if you develop sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, coughing blood, a severe headache with visual changes, or pain and swelling in a leg.
Free contraception scheme in Ireland
Many people can get the pill at no cost through the national scheme. It currently covers eligible people in Ireland agedn between 17-35 and includes consultation and the contraceptive itself. For who is covered and how it works, see Free contraception in Ireland. If you are not covered, the process is still simple and your pharmacy can provide a quote before supply.
Everyday use and practical tips
Take the pill at the same time each day. Set a phone reminder and keep a spare strip for travel. If you miss a pill, follow the advice in your leaflet for your pill type. If you vomit or have severe diarrhoea within a few hours of taking a pill, check the leaflet advice as absorption may have been affected.
If you prefer to avoid monthly admin, ask about three or six month supplies when suitable. You can still contact a pharmacist for advice on side effects, interactions and what to do if you miss a pill.
FAQs
Can I get the pill online in Ireland if it is my first time?
Often yes. An online doctor checks safety and, if suitable, sends a prescription to your chosen pharmacy by Healthmail for delivery or collection.
How long does it take to get a prescription online?
Many people complete the questionnaire in minutes. After review, suitable prescriptions are sent to your chosen pharmacy the same or next working day.
Can I switch pill brands without a visit to my GP?
Often yes, depending on your history and symptoms. An online review can advise a suitable option and issue a prescription if safe.
What symptoms mean I should stop the pill and get urgent help?
Severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, severe headache with visual changes, or pain and swelling in a leg need urgent assessment.
