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Vaginal Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): Care in English near Seongsu

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A vaginal yeast infection, also called vulvovaginal candidiasis or thrush, happens when Candida , a fungus that normally lives in small amounts in the body, grows more than usual. Most women have at least one yeast infection during their life. It is not considered a sexually transmitted infection.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

• Itching and irritation of the vulva and vagina
• Thick, white discharge that may look like cottage cheese, usually with little or no odor
• Burning, especially when urinating or during sex
• Redness and swelling of the vulva, sometimes with small cracks in the skin

These symptoms can look like other conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis, some STIs, or skin conditions that cause vulvar itching. Many people who treat themselves for a presumed yeast infection actually have a different cause.

What causes yeast infections?

Anything that changes the balance of the vagina can allow Candida to grow. Common triggers include:

• Recent antibiotic use
• Pregnancy or hormonal changes, including some hormonal contraception
• Diabetes, especially when blood sugar is not well controlled
• A weakened immune system
• Heat and moisture, for example tight clothing or staying in wet swimwear

When should I see a doctor?

See a gynecologist if this is your first time with these symptoms, if you are not sure it is yeast, if over-the-counter treatment did not work, or if you are pregnant. Also book a visit if you have four or more yeast infections in a year (recurrent candidiasis), or if you have fever, pelvic pain, or sores, which suggest a different problem.

How is a yeast infection diagnosed at the clinic?

The doctor asks about your symptoms and examines the vulva and vagina. A small swab of discharge can be checked under a microscope or sent for culture. A culture is useful for recurrent infections because it can identify less common types of yeast that respond differently to treatment. If there are risk factors, the doctor may also offer STD testing at the same visit. See what to expect in a gynecology consultation.

How is a yeast infection treated?

Treatment uses antifungal medicine, either as vaginal suppositories or cream, or as oral tablets. The choice depends on how severe the symptoms are, whether infections recur, and whether you are pregnant (in pregnancy, vaginal treatment is generally preferred). For recurrent infections, the doctor may discuss a longer course followed by maintenance treatment. Sexual partners usually do not need treatment unless they have symptoms. Individual results vary.

For information about pharmacies and prescriptions in Korea, see our guide to yeast infection treatment in Korea.

How can I prevent yeast infections?

• Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid very tight clothing.
• Change out of wet swimwear or sweaty workout clothes soon.
• Avoid douching, scented soaps, and vaginal sprays.
• If you have diabetes, keep blood sugar in your target range.
• Take antibiotics only when prescribed, and tell the doctor if you usually get yeast infections after them.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

If you have vaginal itching or discharge, a short visit can confirm whether it is a yeast infection so you can start the right treatment. Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, sees patients in English at Eunice Women's Clinic.

•  Address: 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, across the crosswalk from Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk
• Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00–19:00
• Tue, Thu: 10:00–20:00 (evening clinic)
• Sat: 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
• Weekday lunch break: 13:30–14:30. Closed Sundays and Korean public holidays

You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search “유니스산부인과” or Eunice), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100. Booking is recommended; call or message to check same-day availability. See directions from Seongsu Station.

Frequently asked questions

Can I treat a yeast infection with pharmacy medicine in Korea?

Some antifungal products are sold at Korean pharmacies. They can help if you have had a confirmed yeast infection before and the symptoms are the same. If this is your first time, you are pregnant, or symptoms do not improve, see a doctor for testing.

Is a yeast infection sexually transmitted?

No. Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted, although sex can sometimes irritate the area or trigger symptoms. Partners usually do not need treatment unless they have symptoms themselves.

How long does it take for a yeast infection to clear?

Symptoms often improve within a few days of starting treatment. Complicated or recurrent infections may need a longer course. If symptoms have not improved after treatment, return to the doctor so the diagnosis can be checked.

What counts as recurrent yeast infection?

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis usually means four or more symptomatic episodes in one year. A culture test and a longer treatment plan are commonly recommended in this situation.

Can I have sex during a yeast infection?

It is usually better to wait until symptoms improve, because sex can increase irritation. Some vaginal creams can also weaken latex condoms, so ask the doctor or pharmacist about your specific product.

Related pages

•  Gynecology Consultation
• STD Testing
• Vulvar Itching
• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
• Yeast Infection in Korea
• Pharmacy Guide for Women

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.