Gentle, quick, checked by ultrasound

IUD Insertion in Gangnam, Seoul, by female OB‑GYNs who go at your pace

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small T-shaped device placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy for several years. At Sinsoe Women's Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, a female OB-GYN inserts either a hormonal IUD (Mirena) or a copper IUD in a short visit, and checks the position with ultrasound. The published fees are ₩350,000 for Mirena and ₩280,000 for a copper IUD (June 2026; confirm before your visit). An English-speaking coordinator helps you book and prepare.

  • Hormonal or copper IUD
  • All-female doctors
  • Ultrasound position check
  • Self-pay for visitors
  • 4 min from Eonju Station, Exit 7
  • ₩350,000 Mirena, published fee (June 2026)
  • ₩280,000 copper IUD, published fee (June 2026)
  • 99%+ effective at preventing pregnancy
  • 5 female doctors on one team
The basics

What is IUD insertion?

IUD insertion is a short procedure in which a doctor places a small, flexible T-shaped device inside the uterus through the cervix. Two thin threads stay at the top of the vagina so the IUD can be checked and removed later.

There are two main types. A hormonal IUD such as Mirena releases a small amount of progestogen and often makes periods lighter. A copper IUD has no hormones and can stay in place for many years, but it may make periods heavier.

Both are among the most effective forms of birth control, and fertility returns quickly once the IUD is removed.

Why women choose an IUD Benefits of an IUD

  • More than 99% effective
  • Lasts for years, with nothing to remember daily
  • Can be removed any time
  • Hormone-free option available (copper)
  • Hormonal type often makes periods lighter

What an IUD does not do

  • It does not protect against STDs. Use condoms too, and see STI prevention
  • It is not the only long-acting option. Compare with Implanon
Is it right for you?

Who an IUD suits, and who should wait

Most women can use an IUD, including women who have never had a baby. Your doctor checks a few things first.

Good fit

An IUD may suit you if you

  • Want reliable birth control for several years
  • Find it hard to take a pill every day
  • Want a hormone-free option (copper IUD)
  • Have heavy periods (hormonal IUD can help)
Check first

Your doctor may suggest waiting if you

  • Could be pregnant
  • Have a current pelvic infection or untreated STD
  • Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • Have a uterus shape that makes insertion difficult, such as some large fibroids
After insertion, contact us quickly if you have:
  • Severe or increasing pelvic pain
  • Fever or unusual, smelly discharge
  • You cannot feel the threads, or feel the hard plastic of the IUD

Message us on WhatsApp. If you have severe pain or heavy bleeding, go to the nearest emergency room.

Choose your IUD

Hormonal IUD or copper IUD?

Both are highly effective. The main difference is how they affect your periods.

Hormonal IUD (Mirena)

Releases levonorgestrel inside the uterus. Periods usually become lighter and less painful. See Mirena for details.

Heavy or painful periods

Copper IUD

Hormone-free. Works from the day it is placed and lasts for many years, but periods may get heavier or crampier at first.

No hormones

Not sure yet?

Talk it through in a contraceptive counseling visit, which also covers the implant, pill and other methods.

Still deciding
Step by step

What happens at your IUD insertion in Gangnam

The insertion itself takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Plan around an hour in total.

  1. 1 Message us in English On WhatsApp. Tell us which IUD you're interested in and the date of your last period.
  2. 2 Check in on 2F Bring your passport or Alien Registration Card. Reception is on the 2nd floor.
  3. 3 Consultation and checks A female OB-GYN reviews your history and confirms you are not pregnant. A pelvic exam and, if needed, swabs.
  4. 4 Insertion, 5 to 10 minutes A speculum is placed, the cervix is cleaned and the IUD is inserted through it. You may feel strong cramps for a moment.
  5. 5 Ultrasound check and aftercare Your doctor checks the IUD position with ultrasound and explains how to check your threads at home.
Female OB-GYN at an ultrasound machine in an exam room at Sinsoe Women's Clinic, Gangnam
Ultrasound confirms the IUD is in the right place.
Clinic corridor on the 2nd floor of Sinsoe Women's Clinic, Seoul
Private exam rooms on the 2nd floor.
Before your visit

How to prepare

  • Many women book during or just after their period
  • Avoid unprotected sex since your last period, or tell your doctor
  • Take ibuprofen about an hour before, if it is safe for you
  • Eat a light meal, and plan a quiet afternoon
During and after

Does it hurt?

Most women feel strong period-like cramps for a short time during insertion. Your doctor tells you each step and can use local anesthetic on the cervix if needed. Some women feel faint for a moment and rest before leaving.

Cramping and spotting for a few days afterwards are common. A check-up after 4 to 6 weeks, or after your next period, is advised.

Be informed

Side effects and risks of an IUD

Serious problems are rare. Your doctor explains them all before insertion.

Cramping and spotting Common, first days to months

Usually settles. Irregular bleeding is common with a hormonal IUD for the first 3 to 6 months.

Expulsion The IUD slips out

Happens in a small number of women, most often in the first year. Checking your threads helps you notice.

Infection Rare, mostly first weeks

Risk is highest just after insertion. Testing for STDs beforehand lowers it.

Perforation Very rare

The IUD pushes into the wall of the uterus in about 1 in 1,000 insertions. It may need a procedure to remove.

If you get pregnant with an IUD in place, which is rare, see a doctor quickly to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.

Doctor's hand showing IUD placement on a uterus model, Sinsoe Women's Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul
Where the IUD sits, shown on a model.
Expats & visitors

Getting an IUD in Korea as a foreigner

Many expats and visitors get an IUD in Seoul. Here is what to know.

If you live in Korea

Easy follow-up

Come back for your check-up and, years later, for removal or replacement at the same clinic.

If you are visiting

Plan your check-up

Insertion can be done in one visit. If you fly home soon, your doctor tells you when to get a check at home.

If you need paperwork

Device details in English

Ask for an English note of the IUD type and insertion date to keep with your records.

Quick answers

IUD insertion: common questions

Where can I get an IUD inserted 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.

How much does an IUD cost in Seoul?

At Sinsoe, Mirena is ₩350,000 and a copper IUD is ₩280,000, from the clinic's published fee schedule (June 2026); confirm before your visit. Ask the coordinator what the fee includes for your visit.

Does IUD insertion hurt?

Most women feel strong cramps for a short time. Taking ibuprofen beforehand helps, and local anesthetic can be used. Your doctor stops if you need a break.

Can I get an IUD if I've never had a baby?

Yes. IUDs are safe and effective for women who have not given birth. Insertion may feel a little more uncomfortable.

When does an IUD start working?

A copper IUD works straight away. A hormonal IUD works straight away if inserted within 7 days of your period starting; otherwise, use condoms for 7 days.

Can I get an IUD on the same day as my consultation?

Often, yes, if you are not pregnant and have no signs of infection. Tell the coordinator when booking so the right IUD is ready.

How long does an IUD last?

It depends on the type. A copper IUD can last 5 to 10 years, and Mirena several years. Your doctor tells you the replacement date for your device.

Can a copper IUD be used as emergency contraception?

Yes. Inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, a copper IUD is very effective emergency contraception. Message us quickly if you need it.

Ready when you are

Book your IUD insertion in Gangnam, Seoul

Tell us which IUD you're interested in and your last period date. A coordinator replies in English and confirms your time.

Sinsoe Women's Clinic

537 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06126, South Korea
Eonju 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
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