Urethritis in Gangnam

What Is Urethritis?

Urethritis is caused by infection, irritation, or trauma to the urethra. It can affect both men and women but is more commonly diagnosed in women due to overlapping symptoms with urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Types of urethritis:

• Infectious urethritis: Caused by bacteria, viruses, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Non-infectious urethritis: Caused by irritation from chemicals, tight clothing, catheter use, or injury

Causes of Urethritis

Infectious causes include:

• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea)
• Mycoplasma genitalium
• Ureaplasma urealyticum
• Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Non-infectious triggers:

• Harsh soaps or douches
• Allergic reactions
• Friction from tight clothing or intercourse
• Prolonged catheter use

Symptoms of Urethritis

You may have urethritis if you experience:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Itching or discomfort around the urethral opening
• Clear, white, or yellowish discharge (more common in men)
• Pelvic discomfort or low abdominal pressure

Symptoms may overlap with UTIs or vaginitis in women, so proper testing is essential for accurate diagnosis.

How Is Urethritis Diagnosed in Korea?

Korean clinics use a multi-step approach to identify the cause of urethritis:

• Urinalysis and urine culture to detect bacterial infections
• PCR testing for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and mycoplasma
• Urethral swab (if needed) for accurate identification of pathogens
• Pelvic exam (for women) to rule out cervicitis or vaginitis

Many women’s clinics in Korea offer confidential same-day testing, with results often available within 1–3 days.

Urethritis Treatment in Korea

Treatment depends on whether the cause is bacterial, viral, or non-infectious.

1. Antibiotic Therapy

• Chlamydia: Azithromycin or doxycycline
• Gonorrhea: Ceftriaxone injection + oral azithromycin
• Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma: Doxycycline or moxifloxacin

2. Antiviral Medication

• Prescribed for herpes-related urethritis (e.g., acyclovir, valacyclovir)

3. Supportive Treatment

• Pain relievers for burning and discomfort
• Increased fluid intake to flush the urinary tract
• Avoidance of irritants (perfumed soaps, tight clothing, sexual activity during treatment)

Sexual partners should also be tested and treated if an STI is confirmed to prevent reinfection.

Cost of Urethritis Treatment in Korea

Approximate costs in KRW (₩):

• Consultation + exam: ₩30,000–₩70,000
• Urine test + STI panel: ₩80,000–₩150,000
• Antibiotics (7–10 days): ₩10,000–₩30,000
• Follow-up testing (if needed): ₩20,000–₩50,000

While National Health Insurance may partially cover costs for residents, international patients receive full pricing transparency and private care in English-friendly clinics.

FAQs About Urethritis

Is urethritis an STI?
Not always. Many cases are caused by STIs, but it can also result from irritation or non-sexual infections.

Can I have urethritis without discharge?
Yes. Especially in women, discharge may be minimal or absent. Burning, frequency, or pelvic discomfort are more common.

Can I have sex during treatment?
No. It's best to avoid sexual activity until treatment is completed and symptoms have resolved.

Can it come back?
Yes, especially if your partner is untreated or if the cause wasn’t fully resolved. Reinfection is common with STIs.

How to Prevent Urethritis

• Use condoms during sexual activity
• Urinate after intercourse to flush bacteria
• Avoid harsh soaps or chemical irritants in the genital area
• Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing
• Get regular STI screenings if sexually active with multiple partners

Preparing for Your Clinic Visit in Korea

• Don’t urinate for at least 1 hour before your appointment (urine test required)
• Bring a list of symptoms, medications, and previous infections
• Consider choosing a women’s clinic or urology specialist for targeted care
• Be open with your doctor—Korean clinics offer private, non-judgmental care