Vaginitis

Can I buy yeast infection medicine without a prescription in Korea? Gynecologist in Seoul, Korea

The short answer

Some vaginal antifungal products are available at Korean pharmacies, but oral antifungal tablets generally need a doctor's prescription. Self-treating is only sensible if you have had a confirmed yeast infection before and the symptoms are identical. Otherwise, a quick swab avoids treating the wrong infection.

Product availability in Korean pharmacies changes, and pharmacists may not speak English. Oral antifungals, the fastest-acting option, are usually prescription-only.

When to see a doctor instead

  • It is your first suspected yeast infection
  • Symptoms differ from previous episodes, or there is odor or yellow discharge
  • You have had four or more episodes in a year
  • You are pregnant
  • Symptoms do not improve after treatment

Many women who self-treat for yeast actually have bacterial vaginosis or an STD. See prescriptions and pharmacies in Korea.

Answered by Dami Women's Clinic (다미산부인과의원), Yeouido, Seoul · Dr. Ko Sang-hyun, OB/GYN. General information, not a diagnosis. Emergencies in Korea: call 119. Medical disclaimer · International Patient Center