Women's health screening and gynaecology
Regular screening matters even with no symptoms. Women's cancers show almost no early signs.
What to have regularly
- Cervical cancer screening — part of national cancer screening
- Breast cancer screening — part of national cancer screening
- Bone density testing — by age
- General health check-up — see the health-checkup guide
Eligible ages and intervals change. Check with 1577-1000.
When to see a gynaecologist
- No period for three months or more (when not pregnant)
- Bleeding outside your period
- Period pain that disrupts daily life
- Discharge with unusual colour or smell, with itching
- Pain during sex
- Persistent lower abdominal pain
- Bleeding after menopause — always get examined
- Contraception advice
Steps
- Check whether you are eligible for national screening with 1577-1000.
- Book a screening centre.
- Avoid booking during your period. It depends on the test, so ask.
- Attend the screening.
- Check the result, and always attend any re-test.
What you need
- Alien Registration Card
- Health insurance details
- The first day of your last period
- Previous results, if any
Where to go
- 1577-1000 National Health Insurance Service (eligibility)
- A nearby gynaecology clinic
- Your nearest public health centre (some free tests)
- 1577-1366 Danuri Helpline (13 languages, 24 hours)
- Your local Family Center (accompaniment with an interpreter)
Questions people ask
I feel embarrassed going to a gynaecologist. Many people feel that way. For the medical staff it is routine care. You can also look for a clinic with a female doctor.
It's hard to explain in Korean. Ask a Family Center for accompaniment with an interpreter, or ask 1577-1366 in advance. It is free.
My husband objects. Checking your own health is your right. If it is difficult, get advice from 1577-1366.
I'm unmarried — can I still go? Yes. Gynaecology is not only for pregnant women.
I want contraception advice. A gynaecologist can advise you, and public health centres can also guide you.
Take care
Bleeding after menopause, or bleeding that will not stop, must always be examined. "It will settle down soon" is the most dangerous assumption. If screening says "re-test", do not panic but do go back — most turn out fine.
Related
cancer-screening · health-checkup · pregnancy-check · hospital-system-overview
Source
National Health Insurance Service www.nhis.or.kr / As of 2026-08