Prenatal Care in Seoul for Expats
Korea has a well-organized prenatal care system with frequent check-ups and detailed ultrasounds. Here is what expecting parents can expect month by month.
Prenatal visits are typically monthly in early pregnancy, every two weeks from around 28 weeks and weekly near the due date. Each visit usually includes an ultrasound. If you are enrolled in National Health Insurance you may be eligible for a government pregnancy voucher that helps cover costs.
Typical Visit Schedule
| Stage | How often | Common checks |
|---|---|---|
| Up to ~28 weeks | About every 4 weeks | Ultrasound, blood pressure, weight, blood and urine tests |
| ~28–36 weeks | About every 2 weeks | Growth scans, gestational diabetes screening |
| 36 weeks to delivery | Weekly | Position of baby, preparation for birth |
Key Screening Tests
- First-trimester blood tests and nuchal translucency scan
- Optional non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- Detailed anomaly scan in the second trimester
- Gestational diabetes screening
- Group B strep and late-pregnancy checks
Insurance and Costs
Expats enrolled in National Health Insurance can apply for the government pregnancy and childbirth voucher, loaded onto a card and usable at participating clinics. Uninsured patients pay full fees, so it helps to ask for an estimate in advance.
Choosing an English-Speaking OB-GYN
- Ask whether the same doctor will see you throughout the pregnancy.
- Check which hospital you will deliver at and how emergencies are handled.
- Confirm how you can reach the clinic outside opening hours.
- Request English summaries of your test results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my partner attend ultrasounds?
Most clinics welcome partners in the ultrasound room.
Will I get ultrasound photos?
Many Korean clinics provide images, and some offer digital copies.
What if I move back home mid-pregnancy?
Ask for an English summary of your records to give to your new provider.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital, Apgujeong, Gangnam · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.
Related Guides & Treatments
This guide is for general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Rules on medicines and insurance in Korea can change; please confirm details with the clinic.