Sexual Health › Yeast Infection

Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment in Busan

Vaginal yeast infections (candidiasis) cause itching, burning and thick white discharge. They are common and treatable, but other infections can look similar, so a quick check at an OB/GYN clinic is worthwhile, especially the first time.

What causes yeast infections

Most are caused by overgrowth of Candida albicans , a fungus that normally lives in the body in small amounts. Triggers include antibiotics, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, a weakened immune system, and hormonal changes. Yeast infections are not considered STIs.

Symptoms

• Itching and irritation of the vulva and vagina
• Burning, especially during urination or sex
• Redness and swelling
• Thick, white, cottage-cheese-like discharge, usually without a strong odor

When to see a doctor

• First time you have these symptoms
• Over-the-counter treatment did not work
• Four or more episodes in a year
• You are pregnant, have diabetes, or a weakened immune system
• Symptoms include odor, sores, or pelvic pain, which suggest another cause

What the visit involves

The doctor examines the vulva and vagina and takes a swab. Yeast can often be seen under the microscope during the visit; a culture may be sent if infections keep returning, to identify less common species that need different medicine.

Treatment

Options include antifungal vaginal tablets or creams, or an oral antifungal pill. Oral antifungals may not be suitable during pregnancy, so tell your doctor if you could be pregnant. Recurrent infections may need a longer course followed by maintenance treatment.

Prevention

• Avoid douching and scented products
• Wear breathable underwear; change out of damp clothing quickly
• Manage blood sugar if you have diabetes

Cost and insurance

Consultation, swab tests and prescribed antifungals are generally partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Some pharmacy products can be bought without a prescription and are self-pay.

Tips for foreigners

• Bring your ARC or passport and call ahead about English-speaking staff (1330 can interpret).
• Prescriptions are filled at a pharmacy near the clinic.
• Note any recent antibiotics and treatments you have tried.

See international patients .

Related

• Vaginitis
• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Vaginal Infection Testing
• Vaginal Discharge
• Vulvar Pain
• UTI Treatment

Elsewhere in Korea

• Yeast infection care in Gangnam, Seoul
• Vaginal itching care in Seoul
• Vaginal infection treatment in Daegu

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly if you have fever, pelvic pain, sores or blisters, or if you are pregnant. Get urgent care for severe swelling, broken skin, or symptoms with high blood sugar.

Busan clinics for yeast infection care

These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Call ahead to confirm hours and services.

Yeast infection FAQ