Some of the supports you may need include:
- emotional support, for example unplanned pregnancy counselling
- medical services for your baby and for yourself
- benefits and entitlements that can offer support with finances and accommodation
- supports with parenting
Unplanned pregnancy counselling
During an unplanned pregnancy counselling session, the counsellor will help you to explore how you feel about becoming a parent.
You can call us and talk to one of our professional and experienced counsellors. We can also provide you with information on free face-to-face counselling.
Call the My Options freephone line
My Options is a HSE freephone line that provides free and confidential counselling to people experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
We’re here to help.
Information and counselling:
Monday to Friday: 9am to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 2pm
Medical advice:
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Freephone: 1800 828 010
Outside of the Republic of Ireland: +353 1 687 7044
Unplanned pregnancy support services
Medical services — antenatal care
Antenatal care is the care you receive during your pregnancy from healthcare professionals. It’s sometimes called maternity care or pregnancy care.
If you think you are pregnant, you can visit your GP (family doctor) or contact your local maternity unit or hospital. They can give you information on the antenatal care options available to you.
Antenatal care is free from State maternity hospitals. GP care may also be free while you are pregnant, but you need to check with your GP.
Antenatal and maternity care options
Benefits and entitlements
You and your partner can get benefits and supports when you are pregnant and after you have your baby.
These include:
- antenatal classes
- maternity and paternity leave
- maternity benefit
- child benefit
Benefits and entitlements for parents and children
Supports with parenting
If you decide to become a parent, you can get advice and support on MyChild.ie — the HSE’s guide to pregnancy, baby and toddler health.
If you are worried about the impact that pregnancy and parenting might have on your mental health, you can get advice, information and support on YourMentalHealth.ie.
ParentLine
ParentLine is a confidential helpline offering support, guidance and information for parents and guardians.