Exam, swabs and Pap
A pelvic exam, swabs for infection and a Pap smear with HPV test check the cervix and vagina.
Bleeding after sex
Unexpected bleeding deserves an answer
Abnormal Bleeding Diagnosis in Gangnam, Seoul, with clear answers
Abnormal uterine bleeding is bleeding that does not fit your normal period, such as spotting between periods, bleeding after sex, or any bleeding after menopause. At Sinsoe Women's Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, a female OB-GYN finds the cause with a pelvic exam, ultrasound, Pap and HPV tests and, when needed, a sample of the womb lining. Most causes are benign, but bleeding after menopause should always be checked. An English-speaking coordinator stays with you throughout.
- Step-by-step work-up
- All-female doctors
- Ultrasound and Pap same visit
- Self-pay for visitors
- 4 min from Eonju Station, Exit 7
- 3 types between periods, after sex, after menopause
- 1–2 days for most swab results
- 5 female doctors on one team
- EN English coordinator from booking to results
The basics
What counts as abnormal bleeding?
Any bleeding from the vagina that is outside your usual period is worth noting. This includes spotting between periods, bleeding after sex, bleeding while on hormones that does not settle, and any bleeding after menopause.
Common causes are hormonal changes, the pill or an IUD, polyps on the cervix or in the uterus, fibroids, infections such as chlamydia, and changes on the cervix. Early pregnancy can also cause bleeding.
A diagnosis follows clear steps, from simple tests to more detailed ones. Most women get an answer quickly, and most causes are easy to treat.
What we look for Common causes of abnormal bleeding
- Cervical or uterine polyps
- Infections such as chlamydia or cervicitis
- Hormonal changes, the pill or an IUD
- Fibroids or adenomyosis
- Thickening of the womb lining
- Changes on the cervix found by a Pap or HPV test
Not covered here
- Periods that are simply heavy or long. See heavy menstrual bleeding
- Cycles that are just irregular. See menstrual regulation
Your type of bleeding
Types of abnormal bleeding and what they can mean
When and how you bleed helps your doctor choose the right first test.
| Type of bleeding | Common causes your doctor checks |
|---|---|
| Spotting between periods | Ovulation spotting, hormones or the pill, polyps, infection. |
| Bleeding after sex | Cervical polyp, infection such as chlamydia, cervical ectropion or changes on the cervix. |
| Bleeding after menopause | Thin, dry tissue, polyps or a thickened lining. Always needs a check to rule out cancer. |
| Bleeding on the pill, IUD or implant | Often normal in the first months, but persistent bleeding is worth checking. |
| Bleeding with a positive pregnancy test | Needs a same-day check to look at the pregnancy and its location. |
Get help the same day if you have:
- Heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting
- Bleeding with a positive pregnancy test and pain
- Bleeding with fever or severe pelvic pain
Message us on WhatsApp. If it is an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
The work-up
Tests used to find the cause
Your doctor starts with the simplest tests and adds others only if needed.
Pelvic ultrasound
A transvaginal scan shows polyps, fibroids and the thickness of the womb lining. See GYN ultrasound.
Most bleeding typesLining sample or hysteroscopy
If the lining looks thick or the bleeding continues, a small tissue sample or a look inside the uterus with a thin camera may be advised.
After menopause Step by step
Your bleeding work-up in Gangnam
Many tests are done in one visit. Your doctor explains why she suggests each one.
- 1 Message us in English On WhatsApp. Tell us when the bleeding happens and your last period date.
- 2 Check in on 2F Bring your passport or Alien Registration Card and a list of medicines or hormones.
- 3 Talk with your doctor A female OB-GYN asks about the timing and amount of bleeding and your health history.
- 4 Exam and tests A pregnancy test, pelvic exam, ultrasound, and swabs or Pap and HPV tests as needed.
- 5 Results and next steps Your doctor explains the findings. Lab results usually come back within days, and are sent on WhatsApp.
What to note
- The dates of bleeding and how much
- Whether it happens after sex or exercise
- Your contraception and any hormone therapy
- Your last Pap or HPV test, if you know it
Can I come while bleeding?
Yes. You do not need to wait for the bleeding to stop. An ultrasound can still be done. If a Pap test is needed, your doctor may suggest timing it outside heavy bleeding for a clearer sample.
Avoid vaginal creams and douching for 48 hours before your visit if you can.
After the tests
What your results may show
Most findings are benign and simple to treat. Here is what usually happens next.
Polyp
On the cervix or inside the uterus
Usually removed in a short procedure and checked in the lab. See uterine polyp removal.
Infection
Chlamydia, cervicitis, vaginitis
Treated with medicine. Partners may need treatment too. See STD testing.
Hormonal bleeding
No structural cause found
Hormone treatment or a change of contraception often settles it.
Thickened lining or cervical change
Needs a closer look
A tissue sample, hysteroscopy or further cervical tests are arranged, and you are referred if specialist care is needed.
Tests such as a lining sample can cause cramping and light bleeding for a day or two, and carry a small risk of infection. Your doctor explains this before any procedure.
Expats & visitors
Getting abnormal bleeding checked in Korea as a foreigner
Unexpected bleeding is worrying, especially far from home. We make the process clear.
Follow-up in one place
If a polyp or cervical change needs treatment, we plan it with you and keep your records.
Results while you travel
Lab results can be sent to you on WhatsApp, even after you leave Seoul.
English reports
Ask for English results or a medical certificate to share with your doctor at home.
Quick answers
Abnormal bleeding: common questions
Where can I get abnormal bleeding checked in Gangnam with an English-speaking doctor?
Sinsoe Women's Clinic is at 537 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a 4-minute walk from Eonju Station Exit 7 (Line 9). All doctors are female, and an English-speaking coordinator helps you from booking to results. Message us on WhatsApp at +82-10-9517-5719.
Is spotting between periods normal?
Light spotting around ovulation or in the first months on the pill can be normal. Spotting that keeps happening, or is new, should be checked.
Why do I bleed after sex?
Common causes are a cervical polyp, an infection such as chlamydia, or a sensitive area on the cervix. A pelvic exam, swabs and a Pap and HPV test usually find the reason.
Is bleeding after menopause serious?
It is often caused by thin, dry tissue or a polyp, but it must always be checked, because it can be an early sign of endometrial cancer.
How much does an abnormal bleeding work-up cost?
It depends on the tests you need. From the clinic's published fee schedule (June 2026): gynecologic ultrasound ₩100,000, liquid-based Pap ₩50,000, HPV DNA test ₩80,000, STD 12-pathogen PCR ₩100,000. Confirm before your visit.
Do I need a biopsy?
Not always. A sample of the womb lining is usually suggested if the lining looks thick, you are over about 45, or bleeding continues despite treatment.
Can my IUD or implant cause irregular bleeding?
Yes, especially in the first 3 to 6 months. If it continues or changes, your doctor checks for other causes.
How fast will I get results?
Ultrasound findings are explained the same day. Swab and Pap results usually take a few days and are shared on WhatsApp.
Ready when you are
Book an abnormal bleeding check in Gangnam, Seoul
Tell us when the bleeding happens and the day you'd like to come. A coordinator replies in English.
Sinsoe Women's Clinic
537 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06126, South KoreaEonju Station Exit 7 (4 min) · Yeoksam Station Exit 6 (5 min)
| Mon & Fri | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Tue, Wed, Thu | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |