Sexual Health › Ureaplasma Test

Ureaplasma Testing in Busan

Ureaplasma often shows up on the multi-STI PCR panels many Busan clinics use. A positive result is common and does not always need treatment, so it helps to understand what the test means before deciding next steps with your doctor.

What Ureaplasma is

Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum are small bacteria related to Mycoplasma. They are found in the genital tract of many healthy, sexually active women without causing any problems. They can be passed through sex, but they are often considered part of the normal vaginal flora rather than a classic STI.

When testing may be useful

  • Persistent discharge, urethral symptoms or cervicitis without another explanation
  • Symptoms that continue after treatment for other infections
  • Some fertility or pregnancy evaluations, at a doctor's discretion

Major international guidelines generally do not recommend routine testing or treatment for Ureaplasma in people without symptoms, because finding it is so common and treatment may not bring benefit. Practice varies, so discuss your result with your doctor.

What the test involves

A vaginal or cervical swab, or a urine sample, is tested by PCR, often together with chlamydia, gonorrhea, Mycoplasma and trichomonas. Results usually take a few days. Ask for a printed report, which shows each organism tested and whether it was detected.

Treatment

If your doctor decides treatment is appropriate, Ureaplasma is treated with antibiotics. Partner treatment and a follow-up test may be discussed. If Ureaplasma is detected but you have no symptoms, it is reasonable to ask whether treatment is necessary.

Cost and insurance

PCR testing ordered for symptoms may be partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Multi-pathogen panels done for screening are often self-pay. Ask for a quote and which organisms the panel includes; see the STD test cost guide .

Tips for foreigners

  • Bring your ARC or passport and call ahead about English-speaking staff (1330 can interpret).
  • Ask the doctor to explain whether U. urealyticum or U. parvum was found and what it means for you.
  • Keep a copy of results for any future fertility or prenatal care.

See international patients .

Related

Elsewhere in Korea

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly for pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex or bleeding after sex. If you are pregnant, report any unusual discharge or leaking fluid right away. Go to an emergency room for severe abdominal pain or high fever.

Busan clinics for Ureaplasma testing

These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Call ahead to confirm which PCR panels they use.

Clinic Area Phone Listed features
Roaen OB/GYN Clinic Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) 051-804-3000 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Eroom Women's Clinic (Seomyeon) Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) Not listed Sat, STD tests, Fertility
Mirae Women's Hospital Gaegeum 051-890-9999 Sat, STD tests
Queens Park Women's Hospital Jwa-dong (Jangsan) 051-715-4100 Delivers, Sat, STD tests
Eve & Adam Women's Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-743-7585 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
Samsung Jeil OB/GYN Clinic Centum City (U-dong) 051-747-3999 Sat, STD tests, Fertility
Sehwa Hospital Oncheon-dong Not listed Sat, STD tests, Fertility
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
L Women's Clinic Hadan-dong 051-207-2727 Sat, Evenings, STD tests
The Mizwell OB/GYN Clinic Hwamyeong-dong 051-365-3575 Female doctor, Delivers, Sat, STD tests, Fertility

Ureaplasma test FAQ

  • Is Ureaplasma an STD?

    It can be passed through sex, but it is also commonly found in healthy women and is often considered part of normal flora. It is not treated the same way as chlamydia or gonorrhea.

  • I tested positive but have no symptoms. Do I need antibiotics?

    Often not. Many guidelines advise against treating Ureaplasma without symptoms. Ask your doctor to explain their recommendation.

  • Does Ureaplasma affect fertility or pregnancy?

    Research on links with infertility and pregnancy complications is mixed. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, discuss your result with your OB/GYN.

  • What is the difference between Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma?

    They are related bacteria. Mycoplasma genitalium is a recognized STI that usually needs treatment, while Ureaplasma is more often harmless. Panels may report both.