Prenatal Care in Korea: A Guide for Foreign Mothers

October 5, 2026

Visit schedule, key tests, costs and support available during pregnancy

Quick answer: Prenatal care in Korea typically includes monthly visits until about 28 weeks, every two weeks until 36 weeks and weekly afterwards, with ultrasound at most visits. Key tests include early blood work, first- and second-trimester screening, a glucose test and Group B strep testing. Insured residents can use a pregnancy voucher.

Being pregnant in a foreign country brings extra questions: How do appointments work? What tests are standard? What will it cost? Korea has excellent prenatal care, and many OB-GYN clinics in Seoul support foreign mothers in English. This guide gives you an overview.

Pregnant woman in a sunny field

Typical Prenatal Visit Schedule

Up to 28 weeks: roughly every 4 weeks
28–36 weeks: every 2 weeks
36 weeks to delivery: every week

Your doctor may adjust this schedule depending on your health and pregnancy.

Key Tests and Scans

First trimester: dating ultrasound, blood tests (blood type, anemia, infections such as hepatitis B, syphilis and HIV, rubella immunity, thyroid), urine tests
Screening for chromosomal conditions: nuchal translucency scan and blood screening tests, or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) if you choose
Second trimester: a detailed anatomy ultrasound, usually around 20–24 weeks
Gestational diabetes screening: usually around 24–28 weeks
Third trimester: growth scans, blood tests and Group B strep testing in some cases

Ultrasounds are very common at Korean prenatal visits, so you'll likely see your baby often.

Costs and Support

If you're enrolled in National Health Insurance, many prenatal services are covered, and eligible mothers can receive a government pregnancy and childbirth medical expense voucher (often around ₩1 million for a single pregnancy, with more for twins) that can be used toward prenatal care. Check your eligibility with NHIS. Some screening tests, such as NIPT, may be paid out of pocket.

Choosing Where to Deliver

Many women receive prenatal care at a local OB-GYN clinic and deliver at a partner hospital or birthing center. If your pregnancy is high-risk, your doctor may refer you to a university hospital. Ask early about where you will deliver.

Healthy Pregnancy Tips

Take folic acid and any supplements your doctor recommends
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Check medications with your doctor
Stay active with doctor-approved exercise

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your clinic or seek emergency care for vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, leaking fluid, severe headaches or vision changes, or reduced baby movements later in pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often are prenatal visits in Korea?

Usually every four weeks early on, every two weeks from around 28 weeks and weekly from 36 weeks.

Do foreigners get pregnancy support in Korea?

Foreigners enrolled in NHIS can receive the pregnancy and childbirth medical expense voucher; check eligibility with your insurer.

Can I have prenatal care in English?

Yes. Some clinics in Seoul offer English-speaking OB-GYNs and can refer you to a delivery hospital.

Related Guides

Book an English-Speaking OB-GYN Visit in Gangnam

Sinsoe Women's Clinic is a female-led OB-GYN clinic at 537 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a short walk from Eonju Station (Line 9, Exit 7) and Yeoksam Station (Line 2, Exit 6). All physicians are female, board-certified OB-GYNs, and consultations are available in English. Message us on WhatsApp (+82-10-9517-5719) to book.

Hours: Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Tue–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Sundays

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Prices and procedures can change — please confirm details directly with the clinic.

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