Women's Health — Ireland Patient Guides

Women's health in Ireland

Many women's-health concerns — contraception, period problems, menopause, vaginal infections — are well-suited to an Online Doctor consultation because they're personal, often time-sensitive, and don't always need a physical examination. This cluster covers the most-asked-about women's-health topics from Irish patients with practical, evidence-based guidance.

When to seek immediate help

Attend your nearest emergency department for severe lower abdominal pain (possible ectopic pregnancy or torsion), heavy vaginal bleeding with dizziness, or significant pregnancy complications. For non-urgent concerns — contraception, smear-test results, menopause symptoms, recurrent thrush — an Online Doctor consultation is confidential and convenient.

What you'll find in these guides

• Practical guidance on contraceptive options (combined pill, progestogen-only pill, IUD/IUS)
• What menopause and perimenopause look like, and when to consider HRT
• How to manage common vaginal infections (thrush, bacterial vaginosis)
• Smear-test follow-up — what HPV-positive or LSIL results mean
• Emergency contraception options and timing

Frequently asked questions

Can I get the contraceptive pill prescribed online?

Yes — IMC-registered Online Doctors can prescribe combined and progestogen-only oral contraceptive pills for suitable patients. We follow Irish College of General Practitioners contraception guidance, screen for cardiovascular and thrombotic risk, and check blood pressure (self-measured or recently recorded). Long-acting methods (IUD, implant) require an in-person fitting and we refer accordingly.

Is HRT safe?

Per NICE menopause guidance, for most women experiencing significant menopausal symptoms, the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks. The Online Doctor will review your personal and family history, discuss the options (oestrogen-only versus combined, transdermal versus oral), and explain the small risk profile.

Will my consultation be confidential?

All consultations are strictly confidential under the Medical Council's Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics. Nothing is shared with your treating doctor without your explicit consent.

Information paraphrases public guidance from HSE.ie, NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries, and the Irish College of General Practitioners. General information only — not a substitute for individual medical advice.