Contraception Service
A new pharmacy service is under development which will enable contraceptive prescribing by pharmacists to continue a prescription for short-acting reversible contraception (beyond 12 months). The proposed service is planned to be introduced in 2026.
Page updated 5 November 2025
What is the Contraception Service?
The Contraception Service will enable contraceptive prescribing by pharmacists, enabling them to continue a prescription for short-acting reversible contraception (beyond 12 months).
The new service is being developed by the Department of Health with input from other key stakeholders, who are all members of the Community Pharmacy Expansion Implementation Oversight Group (IOG).
The PSI is a key stakeholder on the Implementation Oversight Group, as well as the HSE, the Health Products Regulatory Authority, Irish Pharmacy Union, patient representatives and practicing pharmacists.
You can read more about the Implementation Oversight Group on our page about the Common Conditions Service, which is also being overseen by the IOG.
When is the Contraception Service expected to launch?
The new service is currently under development. It is expected that the Contraception Service will launch in 2026, following the launch and implementation of the Common Conditions Service.
Where can I find further information about the service?
The PSI will continue to update pharmacists in the coming months as more information becomes available, including when the service is expected to launch. Information will be shared through email communications directly with pharmacists, on our website and through our social media channels.
Related Information
A number of changes to pharmacy practice are being introduced to expand the range of pharmacy services available to patients and the public in Ireland. Read more about the expansion of pharmacy services.
