Hormone Replacement Therapy Gangnam Seoul

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment used to supplement hormones that are no longer produced naturally by the body, most commonly estrogen and progesterone for women experiencing menopause, and testosterone for men experiencing andropause (low testosterone). South Korea, especially in Seoul's Gangnam district, offers high-quality HRT services with increasing accessibility for foreigners.

Understanding HRT

HRT aims to alleviate symptoms associated with hormone deficiencies and can also offer long-term health benefits.


For Women (Menopausal Hormone Therapy - MHT):

  • Purpose: Primarily to manage symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and to help prevent osteoporosis.
  • Types:
  • Estrogen-Only Therapy (ET): For women who have had a hysterectomy (uterus removed). Available as oral tablets, transdermal patches, gels, or vaginal creams/rings.
  • Combined Estrogen-Progestin Therapy (EPT): For women with an intact uterus, progestin is added to protect the uterine lining from thickening (endometrial hyperplasia), which can lead to uterine cancer. Available in various oral, patch, or gel forms, in continuous (no bleeding) or cyclic (with monthly bleeding) regimens.
  • Local Estrogen Therapy: Vaginal creams, tablets, or rings used specifically for vaginal dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse, with minimal systemic absorption.

For Men (Testosterone Replacement Therapy - TRT):

  • Purpose: To treat symptoms of low testosterone (andropause) such as decreased libido, fatigue, mood changes, decreased muscle mass, and erectile dysfunction.
  • Types: Injections, gels, patches, or pellets.


Cost of HRT in Korea (Approximate Ranges as of Mid-2025):

Costs can vary depending on the clinic, the type of hormone, the delivery method, and whether you have Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS).

  • Initial Consultation (OB/GYN or specialist): ₩50,000 - ₩150,000 KRW (approx. $35 - $110 USD)
  • Hormone Level Blood Tests: ₩100,000 - ₩250,000 KRW (approx. $75 - $185 USD)
  • DEXA Bone Density Scan (for women, if recommended): ₩70,000 - ₩150,000 KRW (approx. $50 - $110 USD)
  • Monthly HRT Medication (oral pills, patches, gels): ₩50,000 - ₩120,000 KRW (approx. $35 - $90 USD) for women. For men's TRT, costs can range from ₩300,000 to ₩900,000 KRW per month depending on the type and level of monitoring.
  • Vaginal Estrogen Therapy (creams, tablets, rings): ₩30,000 - ₩80,000 KRW per month (approx. $22 - $60 USD).

NHIS Coverage:

  • If you have Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) and a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC), medically necessary diagnostics (like hormone level tests to diagnose menopause) and consultations will be significantly covered (you pay a co-pay).
  • The cost of the hormone medications themselves may or may not be fully covered, or may require a higher co-pay, especially for long-term use for symptom management rather than acute deficiency. Always clarify this with the clinic and your insurance provider.

Important Considerations for Foreigners:

  1. Language Barrier: Prioritize clinics with confirmed English-speaking doctors or dedicated international coordination staff. Clear communication is essential for discussing symptoms, treatment plans, and potential side effects.
  2. Medical History: Bring any relevant medical records from your home country, especially regarding past hormone therapy, significant health conditions, or family history of certain diseases (e.g., breast cancer, blood clots).
  3. Personalized Treatment: Korean doctors are well-versed in modern HRT guidelines. They will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if HRT is safe and appropriate for you, weighing benefits against potential risks.
  4. Follow-up Care: HRT requires ongoing monitoring. Ensure you understand the schedule for follow-up appointments and blood tests.

By choosing a reputable clinic with good international patient services in Gangnam, you can access high-quality Hormone Replacement Therapy to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life in Korea.

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