Murphy's Pharmacy on North Main Street, Cork, provides emergency contraception after a short, private consultation with a pharmacist. You don't need a prescription or an appointment. It's free for anyone aged 17 to 35 who lives in Ireland, under the HSE Free Contraception Scheme, and you don't need a medical card. Medical card holders of any age can also get it free.
When to use emergency contraception
Emergency hormonal contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when contraception has failed, for example a split condom, a missed pill, or a patch or ring used late. It works best the sooner it is taken.
It is not a regular method of contraception, it does not work if you are already pregnant, and it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
What happens at the pharmacy
Ask at the counter to speak to a pharmacist. The consultation takes place in our private room and takes a few minutes. The pharmacist asks some questions to make sure the medicine is right for you, then supplies it.
Who can get it free
- Anyone aged 17 to 35 who lives in Ireland, under the HSE Free Contraception Scheme. You don't need a medical card.
- Medical card holders of any age.
To get it free under the scheme, bring your PPS number. The pharmacist needs your PPS number, name, address and date of birth to confirm your age. If you're not eligible, you can still get emergency contraception from the pharmacist for a charge.
Questions people ask
Do I need a prescription for the morning-after pill in Ireland?
No. A pharmacist can supply it after a private consultation.
Is the morning-after pill free?
Yes, if you're aged 17 to 35 and live in Ireland, under the HSE Free Contraception Scheme. You don't need a medical card, just your PPS number. Medical card holders of any age also get it free.
What do I need to bring?
Your PPS number, so the pharmacist can confirm your age for the free scheme. You don't need an appointment or a prescription.
How long after sex can I take it?
It depends on the type, but it works best the sooner it is taken. Come in as soon as you can and the pharmacist will advise.
Is it confidential?
Yes. You speak with a pharmacist in a private consultation room.