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Birth Control Pills in Busan

In Korea some daily birth control pills are sold at pharmacies without a prescription, while others, including some newer-generation pills, need a doctor's prescription. An OB/GYN visit helps you choose a pill that's safe for you and treats period problems too.

Types of pills

  • Combined pills (estrogen + progestin) are the most common. They're taken daily, usually with a hormone-free or placebo interval.
  • Progestin-only pills are an option for people who can't take estrogen. Availability is more limited, so ask a doctor.

With typical use, pills are about 91–93% effective. Missed pills are the main reason they fail. If you'd rather not think about it daily, see IUDs or the implant .

Pharmacy or prescription?

Many combined pills are classified as over-the-counter in Korea, and pharmacists can sell them directly. Some formulations are prescription-only. Pills can still be unsafe for some people even without a prescription, so see a doctor first if any of these apply:

  • You're over 35 and smoke, or have high blood pressure.
  • You have migraine with aura, a past blood clot, stroke, heart disease or liver disease.
  • You're breastfeeding or within 6 weeks of giving birth.
  • You want pills to manage acne, heavy periods, PCOS or endometriosis.

What the visit involves

The doctor reviews your history, checks blood pressure and may suggest a pregnancy test. A pelvic exam usually isn't needed just to start the pill. You'll get instructions on when to start and what to do if you miss a pill.

Cost and insurance

Pills taken purely for contraception are typically self-pay. When prescribed to treat a medical condition, some medicines may be covered by National Health Insurance (NHI). The consultation is billed at NHI rates if you're enrolled. Prices vary by brand and pharmacy.

Tips for foreigners

  • Bring your current pill packet or a photo. Ingredients matter more than the brand name, and a doctor or pharmacist can find a local equivalent.
  • Bring your ARC or passport when seeing a doctor.
  • Use 1330 for interpretation and read our international patients guide .

Related

Elsewhere in Korea

When to get help sooner

Stop the pill and seek emergency care (call 119) for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, pain or swelling in one leg, sudden severe headache, vision loss or trouble speaking. These can be signs of a blood clot. If you've missed pills and had sex, ask about emergency contraception.

OB/GYN clinics in Busan to discuss the pill

Any OB/GYN can prescribe or advise on birth control pills. Call ahead to confirm hours.

Clinic Area Phone Listed features
Jamo Women's Hospital (Gwangan Jamo Hospital) Gwangan-dong (Gwangalli) 051-760-0600 Female doctor, Delivers, Sat, IUD
Roaen OB/GYN Clinic Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) 051-804-3000 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Centum Eroom Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-758-8275 Sat, Fertility
Eve & Adam Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-743-7585 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Ms For You Women's Clinic Jwa-dong (Jangsan) 051-636-7975 Sat, Evenings
Dongnae Bom OB/GYN Clinic Oncheon-dong 051-711-2060 Sat, Evenings
Seoul Samsung OB/GYN Clinic Yeonsan-dong 051-714-3500 Sat
Jini OB/GYN Clinic Jangjeon-dong (Pusan Natl Univ) 051-582-8275 Sat, Evenings
Mari Women's Clinic Daeyeon-dong (Kyungsung-Pukyong Univ) 051-626-1009 Sat, STD tests
She's Bon OB/GYN Clinic Suyeong / Millak area Not listed Sat, STD tests
Rose Women's Clinic Nampo-dong 051-245-7911 Sat, Evenings

Birth control pills: FAQ

  • Can I buy the pill at a Korean pharmacy without a prescription?

    Many combined pills are sold over the counter, but some formulations need a prescription. Ask the pharmacist, or see a doctor if you have any health conditions.

  • Is the morning-after pill also over the counter?

    No. Emergency contraceptive pills require a doctor's prescription in Korea.

  • What if I miss a pill?

    Follow the leaflet's missed-pill instructions, which differ by pill type. If you missed pills and had unprotected sex, contact a clinic about emergency contraception.

  • Will my home brand be available?

    Possibly not under the same name, but the same hormone combination is often available. Bring the packet to compare.