IUD insertion is a short outpatient procedure in which a doctor places a small T-shaped device in the uterus through the cervix. The insertion itself usually takes about 5–10 minutes. You can choose a copper IUD (hormone-free, up to about 10 years) or a hormonal IUD (often lighter periods, about 3–8 years). Both are over 99% effective.
- Insertion time
- About 5–10 minutes (visit 30–60 minutes)
- Anesthesia
- Usually none; pain relief options discussed
- Timing
- Any time pregnancy can be excluded
- Recovery
- Cramping for 1–2 days
- Follow-up
- Thread check after about 4–6 weeks
- Cost guide
- ₩200,000–500,000 (estimate after consultation)
Which type of IUD is right for you?
| Type | Hormone | Lasts about | Effect on periods | Often chosen by |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper IUD | None | 5–10 years, by model | May be heavier and crampier at first | Women who want no hormones; emergency contraception |
| Hormonal IUD, standard dose | Levonorgestrel 52 mg | Up to 5–8 years, by type and guidance | Usually much lighter; may stop | Heavy or painful periods |
| Hormonal IUD, lower dose | Levonorgestrel, smaller amount | 3–5 years, by type | Lighter; irregular spotting at first | Women who want a smaller device and less hormone |
Which devices are in stock and their licensed durations are explained at your consultation. For a deeper look at the hormone-free option, see copper IUD, or ParaGard-type IUDs if you used one abroad.
How to prepare for IUD insertion
- Timing: an IUD can be inserted at any point in your cycle if pregnancy can be reasonably excluded. Many women choose the end of their period.
- Avoid pregnancy risk: use condoms or keep taking your current method until the appointment.
- STI testing: recommended if you have a new partner or other risk; see STD testing.
- Pain relief: if suitable for you, an anti-inflammatory pain reliever about an hour beforehand can ease cramping. Eat normally.
- Bring: your passport or ARC, the name of any previous device, and earlier ultrasound or Pap results if you have them.
The insertion visit at Yoonho, step by step
- Consultation in English Dr. Sun-Ok Lee or another of our OB-GYN specialists confirms the device type, reviews your history and answers questions before anything starts.
- Pregnancy test and ultrasound A urine test excludes pregnancy, and a pelvic ultrasound checks the size and shape of the uterus.
- Speculum and cleansing As in a Pap test, a speculum is placed and the cervix is cleaned.
- Measuring the uterus A thin instrument measures the depth of the uterus so the device sits in the right place.
- Placing the IUD The folded IUD is passed through the cervix in a slim tube and released; its arms open inside the uterus. The threads are trimmed.
- Position check and rest Ultrasound confirms the position. You rest until you feel ready and go home with written aftercare instructions.
- Anxiety about pain during insertion
- Unsure whether copper or hormonal suits you
- Worry about the device moving
- Leaving Korea after insertion
- Each step explained, with pain relief options discussed
- Device chosen around your periods and health
- Position confirmed by ultrasound and a thread check
- English record of device type and insertion date
What does IUD insertion feel like?
Experiences vary. Most women feel strong period-like cramps for a short time, especially when the uterus is measured and the device is released. Some feel briefly lightheaded or faint, which usually passes with rest.
If you are anxious, have had a difficult insertion before, or have never had a vaginal birth, tell your doctor. Options such as pain relief beforehand and a slower, step-by-step approach can be discussed. You can ask to pause or stop at any time.
Recovery and follow-up
- Day 0 Cramping and light bleeding are common. Most women return to normal activities the same day.
- Days 1–3 Cramps usually ease. Use a pain reliever if needed.
- First 3–6 months Irregular bleeding or spotting is common with both types. Copper IUD periods may be heavier; hormonal IUD periods usually get lighter.
- After about 4–6 weeks Follow-up visit to check the threads and position.
- When it is effective A copper IUD works immediately. A hormonal IUD works immediately if inserted in the first 7 days of your period; otherwise use condoms for 7 days.
What are the risks of IUD insertion?
- Expulsion: the IUD partly or fully comes out in around 1 in 20 users, most often in the first months.
- Perforation: the device passes into or through the uterine wall in up to about 2 in 1,000 insertions; it may need removal by a procedure.
- Infection: a small risk in the first 3 weeks, higher if an STI is already present.
- Pregnancy: rare, but if it happens there is a higher chance it is ectopic, so a positive test needs prompt review.
Cost, insurance and removal
As a general guide, IUD insertion costs about ₩200,000–500,000 depending on the device; hormonal IUDs are usually at the higher end. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- Contraception alone is generally not NHI-covered; a hormonal IUD for a medical reason such as heavy bleeding may be partly covered — see health insurance for foreigners.
- Removal or replacement is a quick office procedure; fertility usually returns soon after removal.
- Visitors: see IUD insertion in Seoul for foreigners and the birth control overview.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Can I have an IUD inserted on the same day as my consultation?
Often, yes, if pregnancy can be excluded and there is no sign of infection. Sometimes a second visit is arranged, for example to await test results.
Can I get an IUD if I have never given birth?
Yes. IUDs are suitable for most women who have never been pregnant, including the smaller lower-dose hormonal types.
Can my partner feel the threads?
Occasionally. The threads soften over time, and they can be trimmed shorter if they cause discomfort.
Can my IUD be removed in my home country?
Yes. Any gynecologist can check or remove it. Ask for an English record of the device type and insertion date to take with you.
Do I need to come back after insertion?
A short follow-up after about 4–6 weeks checks the threads and position. After that, routine check-ups are enough unless you have symptoms.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.