Marking World Contraception Day today, Friday, 26 September 2025, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting the importance of contraception and reminding the public of the wide range of free options available across Northern Ireland.

The PHA is urging people to visit its dedicated sexual health website, www.sexualhealthni.info, for factual information on available methods and where to access them.

Frances Dowds, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, emphasised the importance of informed, personal choice. She acknowledged that beliefs about contraception are often based on personal experiences of family and friends, but cautioned against misinformation in the age of social media.

"We want to support women to recognise that when it comes to contraception, it's your body and your choice," Ms Dowds said. "To support you in making an informed choice we would encourage you to check that the source of information is reliable and factual."

She added that if a chosen method does not suit an individual, there are many alternative options, and accessing them has never been easier. The PHA stresses that the choice of contraception is not permanent, and people can always consider trying a different form in the future.

Where to Access Free Contraception in Northern Ireland

Contraception is available for free across Northern Ireland from several sources:

• Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics: These clinics offer the full range of free contraceptive options. A list of locations is available at www.sexualhealthni.info/contraception. • SH:24: This online service allows women and girls aged 16 and over to discreetly order free contraceptives for delivery to their home. More information is available at www.sh24.org.uk.

• GPs: Local general practitioners can provide advice and a variety of free contraception.

• Common Youth: An organisation providing a range of free contraception and sexual health and wellbeing services specifically for people aged under 25. Details can be found at .

• C-Card Scheme: Aimed at people aged 16-25, this initiative provides free condoms and lubricants, alongside one-to-one sexual health advice. More information is at www.pha.site/C-CardInfo.

• Community Pharmacies: Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC), often called 'the morning after pill', is available free of charge through most community pharmacies in Northern Ireland. Find a pharmacy near you at www.pha.site/PharmacyFirstMap.

Ms Dowds also reminded the public that contraception is "everyone's responsibility" and highlighted the most effective methods. She noted that the contraceptive implant and contraceptive coil are the most effective types, available through sexual and reproductive health clinics and many GP practices.

Finally, the PHA provided a crucial reminder regarding protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): "It's also important to remember that although contraceptive pills, implants and coils can prevent unplanned pregnancies, they don't protect against STIs, so condoms are still important, especially with new sexual partners. Condoms – when used correctly, are the only form of contraception that can protect against both unplanned pregnancy and STIs."