Revellers warned to take measures to avoid crisis pregnancy

The Crisis Pregnancy Programme is warning Christmas revellers to use protection during the festive season.

The group says the first three months 2010 was its busiest time, with more women attending crisis pregnancy services for help.

Dr Stephanie O'Keeffe, acting director, said: "Each year, crisis pregnancy counselling services see an increased level of clients at the start of the year, so it's vital that people are aware of the risks associated with unprotected sex."

Throughout December, programme staff have been handing out Think Contraception protection packs, containing information and condoms, in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Kilkenny and Galway.

Meanwhile, partygoers were advised to take control of their alcohol intake over Christmas and plan their nights out ahead.

Imeda McHugh, a psychotherapist at St Patrick's University Hospital, said drinking less could have positive results, including having interesting conversations which you remember.

"Your safety, both physically and mentally is less threatened. You don't wake up the next day with the dreaded hangover coupled with all those emotions of guilt, remorse, being flat broke, and a friendship list that no longer exists due to the 'I've been meaning to tell you this all year' syndrome," she said.

Her tips include holding your glass in your hand so no one notices if you only have a soft drink, and telling people you are the designated driver or on antibiotics.

She also advises to book a taxi home for a specific time in advance and make sure you use it; dance through the night, giving yourself less time to drink or say you have commitments in the morning and do not want to be over the limit.