Malcolm Byrne
Question:551. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Health the psychological and counselling services that are available to women across the country contemplating termination of pregnancy. [48742/26]
View answerThursday, 25 June 2026
Questions (551)
Written answers
The HSE’s ‘My Options’ freephone helpline became operational in January 2019 for anyone experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
My Options is staffed by professionally trained counsellors. The ethos of the service is client centred, and counsellors take their lead from the person contacting them for information and support.
Supports and information provided by My Options counsellors include:
• listening support for anyone who is going through an unplanned pregnancy
• information on how to access abortion services
• medical support from an experienced nurse following an abortion
• counselling over the phone for the woman, her partner or other family member
• contact information for in-person or online counselling
• information on the supports available if the woman wishes to continue with the pregnancy.
In 2025 My Options responded to a total of 15,656 calls and webchats. This included 11,423 calls and 1,320 Webchat contacts for information and counselling; and 2,913 calls for medical support to the Nursing Service.