An IUD is one of the few contraception decisions that is genuinely long-term, which is exactly why people put it off when they move abroad — the device is in place for years, and nobody wants to arrange that through a translation app.
This clinic handles the whole cycle: choosing between a hormonal and a copper device, the insertion itself, the ultrasound check afterwards, and removal or replacement when the time comes. If your current device was fitted overseas, it can be removed here.
Hormonal or copper
A hormonal IUD releases a small amount of progestogen locally and often makes periods lighter, which is why it is sometimes chosen for heavy bleeding as much as for contraception. A copper IUD contains no hormones at all, and for some people periods become heavier or more crampy, particularly at first.
Neither is the better device in the abstract. The choice depends on your cycle, how you responded to hormonal contraception before, and how long you want cover for — which is what the consultation is for.
The insertion appointment
Insertion itself takes only a few minutes. An examination and ultrasound come first, to check the position and shape of the uterus and to rule out pregnancy — this is why the appointment is not simply a walk-in request for a device.
Most people describe cramping during and shortly after insertion, similar to strong period pain, settling over the following hours or days. Tell the doctor beforehand if you have found examinations difficult in the past; it changes how the appointment is handled.
Removal and replacement
Removal is usually quicker and easier than insertion. It can be done at any point — you do not have to wait for the device to expire, and you do not need to have had it fitted here.
If you are replacing a device, removal and insertion are normally done in the same appointment.
Afterwards
A follow-up check confirms the device is correctly positioned. Irregular spotting in the first months is common with both types and usually settles.
Contact the clinic sooner if you have severe pain, fever, unusually heavy bleeding, or foul-smelling discharge — these are not part of a normal adjustment.
What to expect
- Message us about availability and which device you are considering.
- Come in for a consultation — hormonal and copper options are discussed.
- An examination and ultrasound check the uterus and rule out pregnancy.
- Insertion itself takes a few minutes.
- Expect cramping during and shortly after; it settles over hours or days.
- A follow-up check confirms the device is correctly positioned.
What affects the cost
Contraception is generally outside National Health Insurance, so an IUD is usually paid in full. The total depends on:
- Which device is chosen — hormonal or copper
- Whether pre-insertion tests are needed
- Whether an ultrasound is included
- Whether the visit also includes removing an existing device
- Whether a follow-up check is booked separately
Common questions
Can foreigners get an IUD in Korea?
Yes. There is no residency or nationality requirement, and no referral is needed. Bring your residence card; insurance enrollment is not required to be seen.
Can I choose between a hormonal and a copper IUD?
Yes, both are available. The consultation covers how each behaves — hormonal devices often lighten periods, copper devices contain no hormones but can make periods heavier at first — so the choice fits your cycle and history.
Does insertion hurt?
Most people feel cramping during the insertion and for a while afterwards, often comparable to strong period pain. It is brief, and it helps to say beforehand if examinations have been difficult for you in the past.
Can the doctor remove an IUD that was inserted overseas?
Yes. You do not need to return to the clinic that fitted it. Bring any documentation you have about the device type if you still have it, though removal does not depend on it.
Is an IUD covered by Korean health insurance?
Contraception is generally not covered, so an IUD is usually paid in full. Hospitals are required to publish non-covered prices, so you can ask for the figure in advance.
How soon can I have it removed if I change my mind?
At any time. You do not have to keep a device for its full lifespan, and removal is usually quicker than insertion.
Talk to an English-speaking coordinator
Send a message and we’ll help you book a consultation at Yoonho in Apgujeong.