Women’s Health Services in Tokyo

A Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Residents and Travelers

Living in a new country can be both exciting and challenging—especially when it comes to your health. For foreign women residing in Tokyo, access to high-quality healthcare services is essential. Fortunately, Japan provides a wide range of medical care options tailored to women’s needs. Whether you’re seeking preventive check-ups, pregnancy care, mental health support, or reproductive health services, Tokyo has you covered.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to navigate women’s health services in Tokyo, including where to go, what to expect, and how to overcome language and cultural barriers.

1. Overview of Japan’s Women’s Healthcare System

Japan offers a universal healthcare system, and both residents and many long-term visitors are eligible for National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employee Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken). These systems cover most essential services related to women’s health, including:

• Annual cervical and breast cancer screenings

• OB-GYN consultations

• Prenatal care and delivery

• Contraceptive counseling

• Menopause support

• Mental health counseling

However, cosmetic or elective treatments may not be covered.

2. Finding an English-Speaking OB-GYN in Tokyo

While many OB-GYNs in Japan speak only Japanese, Tokyo offers several international clinics with English-speaking doctors and staff. These clinics often cater to expats and offer a smoother experience in terms of communication and cultural understanding.

Recommended English-Speaking Women’s Clinics:

• Tokyo Midtown Medical Center (Roppongi)

• Aiiku Hospital (Hiroo)

• Sanno Hospital (Akasaka)

• Seibo Hospital (Nakano)

• Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic (Shibakoen)

• National Center for Child Health and Development (Setagaya)

These facilities typically provide gynecology, prenatal care, breast exams, and referrals to specialists.

3. Gynecological Services: What to Expect

In Japan, gynecological visits may be slightly different from what you’re used to. Privacy screens are common, and doctors may speak less directly about reproductive issues due to cultural norms. That said, Tokyo-based international clinics are generally more aligned with Western practices.

Common Services Include:

• Pap smears

• STI testing

• Pelvic ultrasounds

• Menstrual disorders treatment

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management

• Endometriosis treatment

Appointments can usually be made by phone or online. Some clinics also offer same-day bookings for urgent matters.

4. Birth Control and Contraception in Tokyo

Japan offers limited options compared to many Western countries. The most commonly used form is oral contraceptive pills, which require a prescription from a doctor.

Options Available:

• Low-dose birth control pills (approx. ¥2,000–¥3,000/month)

• Condoms (widely available at convenience stores and pharmacies)

• IUD (available in select clinics, may cost ¥30,000–¥50,000 out-of-pocket)

• Emergency contraception (the “morning after pill” is available, but requires a doctor’s visit)

Note: Long-acting methods like implants or hormonal patches are rarely available in Japan.

5. Pregnancy and Maternity Care

If you become pregnant in Tokyo, you should register the pregnancy at your local ward office (区役所) to receive:

• Maternal and Child Health Handbook (Boshi Kenko Techo)

• Coupons for prenatal checkups and delivery subsidies

Japan provides a strong support system for prenatal care, but childbirth is not covered by public insurance unless it’s medically necessary. A normal delivery may cost around ¥400,000–¥600,000, though partial reimbursement is available.

English-speaking Maternity Hospitals:

• Aiiku Hospital

• Sanno Hospital

• Seibo Hospital

• St. Luke’s International Hospital

Many hospitals offer prenatal classes and bilingual delivery support.

6. Fertility Treatments and IVF

Japan has some of the most advanced fertility clinics in Asia. Services include:

• Fertility testing

• Ovulation induction

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Insurance does not cover most fertility treatments unless specific criteria are met. IVF costs typically range from ¥300,000 to ¥600,000 per cycle.

Recommended Clinics:

• Kato Ladies Clinic (Shinjuku)

• Oak Clinic (Osaka, Tokyo satellite)

• Saint Mother Clinic (Fukuoka with Tokyo consultation)

7. Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings

Japan’s Ministry of Health encourages women to get screened every 1–2 years. Tokyo wards often send free or subsidized screening coupons to residents over age 20.

• Pap smears are usually covered under insurance or with coupons

• Mammograms are available from age 40

• English-speaking clinics can provide full explanations and follow-up if needed

8. Menopause and Hormone Treatment

While menopause support is less openly discussed in Japan, services are available through:

• OB-GYNs and internal medicine clinics

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and supplements

• Mental health counseling for mood changes and sleep issues

English-speaking doctors can help navigate available treatments and lifestyle advice.

9. Mental Health Support for Women

Women experiencing postpartum depression, hormonal mood swings, or life transitions can access:

• Psychiatrists and psychologists

• Women’s support centers

• TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline)

• Online counseling platforms like BetterHelp Japan or Kokoro Care

TELL Lifeline: 03-5774-0992
Women’s Counseling Center (Tokyo): Offers free support in Japanese and some foreign languages

10. LGBTQ+ and Inclusive Women’s Health

Tokyo’s growing diversity has led to more inclusive clinics that support LGBTQ+ patients in gender-sensitive ways. Some providers offer:

• Non-binary and trans-affirming gynecological care

• Mental health counseling

• Gender-affirming hormone therapy (at specialized centers)

Look for LGBTQ-friendly tags on clinic websites or check with Stonewall Japan for recommendations.

11. Dealing with Sexual Assault and Crisis Support

If you are a victim of sexual violence:

• Call 110 to contact the police

• Visit the Tokyo Sexual Assault Crisis Center (SARC Tokyo)

• Seek care at an emergency room or OB-GYN clinic

• Ask for a female doctor if preferred

Support services include medical attention, legal guidance, and emotional counseling.

12. Cultural Differences and Tips

• Modesty is emphasized in clinics—expect privacy curtains and minimal verbal explanation

• Japanese doctors may seem reserved; don’t hesitate to ask direct questions

• Bring a friend or interpreter if language might be a concern

• Always carry your health insurance card and residence card

13. Cost Guide (with NHI)

14. Emergency Contacts

• Ambulance (119)

• Police (110)

• TELL Lifeline (24/7 English): 03-5774-0992

• Tokyo Metropolitan Health Info Service: 03-5285-8181

• SARC Tokyo: https://www.sarc-tokyo.or.jp/

15. Final Thoughts

Women’s health is a lifelong journey, and Tokyo offers a broad spectrum of services to support you at every stage. With increasing language accessibility and cultural awareness, foreign women in Tokyo can access care with confidence and dignity. Be proactive, ask questions, and seek out clinics that respect your values and background.

Whether you’re planning a family, managing hormonal changes, or simply looking for preventive care, Tokyo has resources that can help you stay healthy, informed, and empowered.