ACCESSING LARC PRODUCTS
HOW MUCH WILL I HAVE TO PAY FOR LONG ACTING REVERSIBLE CONTRACEPTION (LARC) PRODUCTS?
LARC products are available on prescription and can be purchased in a pharmacy under the General Medical Service (GMS/Medical card) or if you don’t have a medical card you can purchase through the Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS). Under the Drugs Payment Scheme an individual or family will pay no more than €100 each calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines. Your pharmacist will be able to provide further information on how to apply for a DPS card.
LARC INSERTION PROCEDURE:
In addition to purchasing a LARC product, there is a charge for the LARC insertion procedure. These costs vary between GP surgeries/family planning clinics.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS:
LARC products can involve a high up-front cost but are more cost effective than other contraceptive options in the longer-term.1,2
THE INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM (IUS/HORMONAL COIL)
The Hormonal Coil is a small, soft T-shaped plastic frame that releases low levels of a progestogen hormone for up to 3 - 6 years. It is given with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse.
THE INTRAUTERINE DEVICE (IUD/COPPER COIL)
The Copper Coil is a small, T-shaped plastic frame that has a copper wire. It is available with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse, where it prevents pregnancy for up to 5 - 10 years.
THE INJECTION
An injection containing a hormone that is given with a prescription and administered by a doctor or nurse every 12-13 weeks.
THE IMPLANT
A small, flexible silicone rod that releases hormones for up to 3 years. It is given with a prescription and placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse.
NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL
Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.