Birth Control › Copper IUD

Copper IUD in Busan

The copper IUD is a hormone-free device placed in the uterus that prevents pregnancy for many years. It is also the most effective emergency contraception when inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex. Most Busan OB/GYN clinics can place one.

How it works

Copper is toxic to sperm and prevents fertilization. The device contains no hormones, so your natural cycle continues. It is over 99% effective, and depending on the model it is approved for roughly 5 to 10 years. Fertility returns as soon as it is removed.

Who it suits

  • People who want or need to avoid hormones.
  • Anyone needing emergency contraception up to 5 days after sex who also wants ongoing protection.
  • It may be less suitable if you already have very heavy or painful periods, as copper IUDs can make these worse, especially in the first months. Not suitable with active pelvic infection, copper allergy or Wilson's disease.

The insertion visit

  • Consultation, pregnancy test and often STI screening. An ultrasound is commonly done before or after.
  • The doctor inserts the IUD through the cervix in a few minutes. Expect cramping, so a painkiller beforehand helps.
  • Protection is immediate. A check-up is usually advised after your next period or within 4–6 weeks.

Side effects

  • Heavier, longer or more painful periods are common, and often improve after 3–6 months.
  • Spotting between periods early on.
  • Rare risks: expulsion, uterine perforation at insertion, and infection in the first few weeks.

Cost and insurance

Copper IUDs for contraception are generally self-pay in Korea, and prices vary by device and clinic. Ask for a quote that includes the device, insertion, ultrasound and follow-up. See our IUD cost guide .

Tips for foreigners

  • Bring your ARC or passport.
  • Ask for the model name and approved duration in writing.
  • For emergency use, say so when you call ( eung-geup means emergency) so the clinic can fit you in quickly.
  • See our international patients guide , or use 1330 for interpretation.

Related

Elsewhere in Korea

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly for fever, severe pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge, very heavy bleeding (soaking a pad an hour), strings you can't find, or a positive pregnancy test. A pregnancy with an IUD needs urgent assessment for ectopic pregnancy.

OB/GYN clinics in Busan for copper IUDs

Call ahead to confirm the clinic stocks copper IUDs and to ask the total price.

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

Copper IUD: FAQ

  • Can a copper IUD be used as emergency contraception?

    Yes. Inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, it is the most effective emergency method, and it then keeps working as regular contraception.

  • Will it make my periods heavier?

    Often, especially in the first few months. If your periods are already heavy, ask about a hormonal IUD instead.

  • How long does it last?

    It depends on the model, typically around 5 to 10 years. Ask the clinic for the approved duration of the device they use.

  • Is it covered by NHI?

    Generally no when used for contraception. Ask for a full self-pay quote.