Free contraception scheme expanded up to women aged 35

The free contraception scheme has been expanded to women up until age 35.

The Minister for Health has announced that from July 1, any woman aged 17 to 35 will be covered to apply for the scheme.

The scheme, which was launched in 2022, is open to women, girls, and people who identify as transgender or non-binary, where a prescription or procedure is deemed suitable by doctors.

It covers the costs of GP consultations, family planning, student health and primary care centres but also covers prescriptions for a variety of contraception options.

Almost 2,400 GPs and 2,050 pharmacies are providing services under the free contraception scheme.

More than 189,000 people accessed the service last year.

Speaking about the latest expansion, Mr Donnelly said: "We know that many women in this age group may be planning to start families, with 33 years being the average age of a first-time mother. However it is important that we support all women in providing equitable access to services that allow them to control their reproductive health and avoid unintended pregnancies."

The minister added: "Amid continuing cost-of-living pressures, this scheme is a significant step forward in our efforts to provide a quality, equitable health service for all."