Comprehensive Men’s Health Support at Urology Clinics for Foreign Patients

Experiencing pelvic pain, discomfort during urination, or sexual difficulties? These could be signs of prostatitis (전립선염 – jeollipseonyeom), a condition involving inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can be acute or chronic, bacterial or non-bacterial, and affects men of all ages—but especially those between 20 and 50. If you're an expat or traveler in Korea dealing with these symptoms, urology clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic offer discreet, specialized care with prompt diagnostics and targeted treatment.

What Is Prostatitis and What Causes It?

Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate, often accompanied by pain and urinary or sexual dysfunction. It is categorized into several types:

1. Acute Bacterial Prostatitis: Sudden onset, usually caused by a urinary tract infection
2. Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis: Recurring infections with milder symptoms
3. Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS): The most common form—non-bacterial, persistent pelvic pain without infection
4. Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis: Detected during tests but without symptoms

Potential Causes:

• Bacterial infection (often E. coli or other urinary pathogens)
• Urinary reflux into the prostate
• Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
• Nerve inflammation or autoimmune responses
• Stress, sedentary lifestyle, or past trauma
• Sexually transmitted infections (in some cases)

Symptoms of Prostatitis May Include:

• Pain or burning during urination (dysuria)
• Frequent urination or urgency
• Pain in the perineum (area between scrotum and anus), lower back, or groin
• Painful ejaculation or erectile dysfunction
• Fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms (with acute bacterial prostatitis)
• Discomfort after sitting for long periods

Prostatitis Evaluation in Korea: Accurate and Confidential

At Gangnam J Urology Clinic, you’ll receive a comprehensive and private evaluation, often with same-day results and immediate treatment:

1. Detailed Medical Interview and Symptom Review:
   Includes history of UTIs, sexual activity, pain location, and any recurrent symptoms.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE):
   Performed gently to assess prostate size, tenderness, and inflammation.
3. Urinalysis and Urine Culture:
   Checks for bacteria, white blood cells, and other signs of infection.
4. Prostate Massage Test:
   Sometimes used to express prostatic fluid for analysis (EPS – expressed prostatic secretion).
5. Blood Tests (including PSA if needed):
   Evaluates inflammation markers or rules out other prostate conditions.
6. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS):
   Used in some chronic cases to assess structural abnormalities or detect abscesses.

Treatment Options for Prostatitis in Korea

Treatment varies based on the type of prostatitis and its severity. Korean clinics provide multimodal treatment plans for symptom relief and long-term management.

1. Antibiotic Therapy (항생제):

• First-line treatment for both acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis
• Courses may last from 2 to 6 weeks, or longer in chronic cases
• Common antibiotics: fluoroquinolones, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

2. Alpha Blockers:

• Relax the muscles around the bladder neck and prostate
• Useful for urinary symptoms associated with chronic prostatitis

3. Anti-inflammatory Medications:

• NSAIDs reduce pelvic pain and discomfort
• Used in conjunction with antibiotics or other therapies

4. Prostatic Massage Therapy:

• Occasionally used in chronic non-bacterial prostatitis to improve drainage

5. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:

• For CP/CPPS, physical therapy can help relieve muscle tension and improve function

6. Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments:

• Avoid caffeine, spicy foods, alcohol
• Stress management, regular exercise, and improved posture

7. Advanced Options (if resistant):

• Botox Injections in pelvic muscles
• Neuromodulation therapy for pelvic pain relief
• Surgical intervention (rarely required, only for abscess or severe obstruction)

Why Choose Gangnam J Urology Clinic for Prostatitis Care?

• Male Urologic Focus: Doctors specialize in diagnosing and managing complex prostate conditions
• Quick, Accurate Testing: On-site urinalysis, ultrasound, and culture results
• Discreet and Comfortable Environment: Designed for men’s health with privacy and respect
• Multilingual Staff: English-speaking doctors or coordinators are often available
• Follow-Up Plans: Tailored to chronic cases with options for physical therapy or extended treatment

Estimated Cost of Prostatitis Treatment in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• Urinalysis and Culture: ₩10,000 – ₩25,000
• Prostate Ultrasound (if needed): ₩15,000 – ₩40,000
• Medications: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
  Total (with NHIS): ₩30,000 – ₩100,000+ depending on tests and prescriptions

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Urinalysis/Culture: ₩30,000 – ₩60,000
• Ultrasound or EPS Test: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Medications: ₩10,000 – ₩30,000
• Physical Therapy (if needed): ₩50,000 – ₩150,000 per session
  Total (without NHIS): ₩150,000 – ₩400,000+, depending on treatment path

When to See a Urologist for Prostatitis

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Pelvic or testicular pain that persists
• Painful ejaculation or erectile issues
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Fever or chills with urinary symptoms (urgent in acute cases)



Prostatitis can be frustrating, painful, and recurrent—but with the right care, it's manageable. Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic specialize in treating men’s health conditions with modern diagnostic tools, effective treatments, and compassionate, English-friendly service. Whether it’s your first episode or a chronic issue, early intervention and expert care can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life. Don’t wait—take charge of your prostate health today.