Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC)

Discreet, professional support when you need it most.

Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC), often referred to as the "morning after pill", is a safe and effective way to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g. missed pill, condom break).

At Allcare Pharmacy, EHC is available without the need for an appointment. You’ll have a quick, private consultation with a pharmacist, and if suitable, treatment can be provided on the spot.

Availability: Walk-in — available in all Allcare Pharmacies
Eligibility: Subject to a brief pharmacist consultation

What to expect

• Walk in to your local Allcare Pharmacy
• A short, confidential consultation with the pharmacist
• We’ll ask a few quick questions to ensure suitability
• If appropriate, medication is provided during your visit
• Full privacy and discretion at all times

When should I take EHC?

• Most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex
• Usually effective up to 3 or 5 days, depending on the type supplied
• Your pharmacist will guide you on which option is best for you

Who can access EHC for free?

Under the HSE’s Free Contraception Scheme, EHC is free for those who:

• Are aged 17 to 35 (inclusive)
• Have a valid PPS number
• Are ordinarily resident in Ireland

If you’re not eligible for the scheme, the service is still available privately.

Your Next Step to Better Health

Visit your local Allcare Pharmacy — no appointment needed. Our team is here to support you with care and confidentiality.

We’re currently experiencing a service outage for our Emergency Contraception and Erectile Dysfunction online ordering service. Our team is working to restore service as soon as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

If you require Emergency Contraception or Erectile Dysfunction medication please call into the store where we will discreetly handle your requirements.

FREE CONTRACEPTION FOR PERSONS AGED 17-35 YEARS OLD

The service is available for free for medical card holders and persons aged 17-35. If you are aged 17-35 you will be required to have your PPS number and proof of date of birth. A fee applies to anyone who does not have a medical card. To find out more, speak to your local Allcare pharmacist.

Emergency contraception is available from your Allcare Pharmacist without a prescription, subject to meeting certain criteria. Emergency contraception is a safe and effective method of preventing pregnancy when regular contraception has failed or if no contraception was used.

It can be effective up to 120 hours after unprotected sex but is more effective the sooner you use it.

The service is available for free for medical card holders.  A fee applies to anyone who does not have a medical card.  To find out more, speak to your local Allcare pharmacist.