The legal framework
After the referendum of May 2018 repealed the Eighth Amendment, the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 came into force on 1 January 2019. Termination is available on request up to 12 weeks, and later where there is a risk to life or serious harm to health, or a fatal fetal condition.
Key points
| On request | Up to 12 weeks, calculated from the last menstrual period |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | Three days between the first consultation and the procedure |
| After 12 weeks | Risk to life or of serious harm to health, or a condition likely to lead to death of the foetus |
| Provider | GPs provide early medical abortion; hospitals handle later care |
| Cost | Free, including for people without a medical card |
| Safe access zones | Introduced by legislation in 2024 |
| Statute | Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, after the 2018 referendum |
| Three-day wait | Mandatory between the two consultations, and criticised in the statutory review |
| GP-led | Early care is delivered by participating GPs, not hospitals |
| Review | The 2023 statutory review recommended removing the waiting period and the criminal penalties |
In practice
- Call the My Options freephone line to be matched with a participating GP.
- First consultation starts the three-day clock; the second appointment provides the medication.
- Telephone and video consultation were retained after the pandemic for early medical abortion.
- Aftercare and contraception are provided by the same service.
- Use the MyOptions helpline to find a participating GP: not all GPs provide the service.
- Book the first consultation immediately — the three-day wait comes out of the twelve weeks.
Cost and coverage
Free, regardless of medical card status.
Recent changes
The statutory review published in 2023 recommended removing the mandatory three-day wait and clarifying the twelve-week calculation — changes that were still under consideration.
Where to go
- My Options — freephone information and referral line.
- Participating GPs and women's health clinics.
- HSE sexual health services for contraception.
Worth knowing
The three-day wait is calculated strictly, so a first appointment at eleven weeks and five days may leave no lawful time. Ring as soon as you know. The three-day wait is counted inside the twelve-week limit, so a late first appointment can put the limit out of reach.
Official sources and links
- Citizens Information — official plain-language guide to rights and entitlements
- Irish Statute Book — legislation as enacted