Post-Abortion Counselling Demand Highlights Growing Concerns in Ireland
In Ireland, more than 100 women sought state-funded post-abortion counselling services within the first quarter of 2026, according to new data from the Health Service Executive (HSE). Of the 111 clients recorded between January and March, 46 were seeking assistance for the first time.
This information was disclosed following a request from Independent TD Carol Nolan, who inquired about annual statistics on post-abortion counselling since the abortion law’s implementation in 2019, as reported by Gript.
The HSE data indicates a slight decrease in new clients accessing counselling in 2025 compared to 2024, with 293 new clients in 2025 versus 314 in 2024. Since 2019, annual figures have varied between 237 and 326 new clients.
When considering both new and returning clients, 2025 saw a total of 468 individuals availing these services, a decrease from 805 in 2024. However, the HSE advises that these statistics might not accurately represent individual clients, as repeat visits in different quarters could lead to multiple counts. “The figures included for ‘new clients’ are therefore more accurate,” stated the HSE.
These figures have sparked criticism from pro-life advocates who argue that the high demand for counselling underscores a need for increased support for women prior to undergoing an abortion. Sandra Parda from the Life Institute expressed that such figures reveal how “abortion hurts women” and suggested that public funds should instead support women in keeping their pregnancies.
“The government is funding and propping up a vicious cycle where abortion is offered to women who feel vulnerable, and when the procedure leaves them hurt and feeling empty emotionally, they are offered counselling,” Parda said. “There is a better way to help women in crisis, and we feel that this is not it.”
Parda also criticized suggestions to abolish Ireland’s mandatory three-day waiting period, describing it as crucial “breathing space” before making irreversible decisions.
Recent studies have brought attention to potential mental health challenges following abortions. A 2025 study involving 1.2 million pregnancies in Quebec found that women who had abortions faced higher rates of mental health-related hospitalizations than those who gave birth, particularly in younger women and those with pre-existing mental health conditions.
Additionally, a 2023 review published in BMC Psychiatry estimated that 34.5% of women globally experience depression following an abortion, underscoring the need for enhanced post-abortion support and counselling.
Another study from this year reported that 45% of American women aged 41 to 45 who had an abortion endured long-term emotional distress, especially when the abortion was unwanted or conflicted with personal values.
Deputy Nolan has questioned the government regarding the information provided to women before an abortion, including whether counselling covers foetal development, potential risks, adoption, and financial support for continuing pregnancies.
The HSE highlighted its “My Options service”, which provides confidential support and impartial counselling for unexpected pregnancies, as well as information for those choosing to continue their pregnancies. Free post-abortion counselling is offered to women and their partners without the need for referrals.
Nolan also inquired about state funding for abortion services compared to crisis pregnancy and adoption services since 2019. The HSE revealed funding allocations starting with €11.5 million in 2019, €9.5 million in 2020, and additional amounts in subsequent years. Spending on the My Options service was €160,118 in 2024 and €79,094 in 2025.
This disclosure follows recent Department of Health data revealing that over 65,000 abortions have occurred in Ireland since the services began post-2018 referendum. In 2025 alone, 10,600 abortions were recorded, marking a slight decline from the previous year.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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