Sexual Health › Vaginal Infection Testing
Vaginal Infection Testing in Busan
Itching, odor or unusual discharge can come from several different infections, and they need different treatments. A quick swab at an OB/GYN clinic identifies the cause so you get the right medicine the first time.
Common causes the test looks for
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) : thin gray discharge with a fishy odor, caused by an imbalance of vaginal bacteria.
- Yeast infection (candidiasis) : itching, burning and thick white discharge.
- Trichomoniasis : a sexually transmitted parasite that can cause frothy, yellow-green discharge and irritation.
- Chlamydia, gonorrhea and Mycoplasma : STIs that may cause discharge or bleeding, or no symptoms at all.
- Aerobic vaginitis and other causes , including irritation from soaps or products, or low estrogen after menopause.
When to get tested
- Discharge that has changed in color, smell or amount
- Itching, burning or soreness that lasts more than a few days
- Symptoms that came back after over-the-counter treatment
- A new sexual partner, or a partner with symptoms
- Pregnancy with any new discharge or odor
What the visit involves
The doctor asks about your symptoms and does a short speculum exam to collect a swab from the vagina. Many clinics can look at the sample under a microscope and check pH during the visit, giving a preliminary answer the same day. A PCR panel for STIs and other organisms may also be sent to a lab, with results in a few days. Avoid douching, vaginal creams and sex for a day or two before the test if you can, as they can affect results.
Cost and insurance
Testing for symptoms is generally partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Extended multi-pathogen PCR panels and screening without symptoms are more often self-pay. Prices vary, so ask which tests are included and the cost before the swab. See the STD test cost guide .
Tips for foreigners
- Bring your ARC or passport. NHI applies automatically if you are enrolled.
- Call ahead for walk-in hours and English-speaking staff; the 1330 hotline can interpret.
- Note when symptoms started, what you have already tried, and the date of your last period.
- Ask whether your partner also needs treatment (needed for trichomonas and STIs).
More help: international patients .
Related
Elsewhere in Korea
When to get help sooner
See a doctor promptly if discharge comes with fever, pelvic pain or pain during sex, or if you are pregnant. Go to an emergency room for severe lower abdominal pain, high fever, or heavy bleeding.
Busan clinics for vaginal infection testing
These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Call ahead to confirm tests and hours.
| 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 |
Vaginal infection testing FAQ
Can I just buy yeast infection cream at a pharmacy?
If you have had a confirmed yeast infection before and the symptoms are identical, a pharmacist may help. If it is your first time, symptoms are different, or treatment did not work, get a swab: BV and trichomonas need different medicine.
Can I be tested during my period?
Light bleeding is usually fine, but heavy flow can affect some tests. Call the clinic to ask; many prefer you come a few days after your period ends.
Is a vaginal infection always an STI?
No. BV and yeast infections are not considered STIs, though sexual activity can influence them. Trichomonas, chlamydia and gonorrhea are sexually transmitted.
How quickly will I know the result?
Microscope and pH checks can give an answer during the visit. Lab cultures and PCR panels usually take a few days.