Table of contents

• What Is Prostatitis Treatment?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Prostatitis Treatment
• Prostatitis Treatment in Korea
• Cost of Prostatitis Treatment in Korea
• Alternatives to Prostatitis Treatment
• Conclusion

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Planning treatment for prostatitis can feel complex, so this article breaks it down step by step: we’ll first explain what prostatitis treatment typically involves—from diagnosis and common therapies to expected timelines and outcomes—then look specifically at how care is delivered in Korea, including access to urology specialists, standard clinical pathways, and patient support services. We’ll outline the typical cost components of prostatitis care in Korea (consultations, tests, medications, and procedures) and what factors can increase or reduce expenses for both residents and international patients. Finally, we’ll cover evidence-based alternatives and adjuncts to conventional treatment—such as pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle modifications, and complementary options—so you can better discuss choices with your clinician and decide which path aligns with your needs.

What Is Prostatitis Treatment?

Prostatitis treatment refers to the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies used to manage inflammation or infection of the prostate gland. In Korea, prostatitis care is typically delivered by urologists in hospital-based centers and specialty clinics that follow international (AUA/EAU) and Korean Urological Association (KUA) guidelines. Care is tailored to the specific subtype of prostatitis and to the patient’s symptom profile, often using a multimodal approach that combines medications, targeted procedures, pelvic floor therapy, and lifestyle measures.

Prostatitis is categorized into four NIH subtypes:

• Acute bacterial prostatitis (Category I)
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis (Category II)
• Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, CP/CPPS (Category III: IIIa inflammatory, IIIb non-inflammatory)
• Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis (Category IV)

Treatment goals include eradicating infection when present, relieving pain and urinary symptoms, restoring function and quality of life, and preventing recurrence or complications such as abscess formation or sepsis.

Who Prostatitis Treatment Is For

• Adults with pelvic or perineal pain, painful ejaculation, dysuria, urinary frequency/urgency, weak stream, or pelvic floor discomfort
• Patients with systemic infection signs (fever, chills, malaise) suggestive of acute bacterial prostatitis
• Individuals with recurrent urinary tract infections, particularly men with positive urine or semen cultures indicating chronic bacterial prostatitis
• Patients with persistent pelvic pain and bothersome urinary or sexual symptoms without an identified pathogen (CP/CPPS)
• Men found incidentally to have prostate inflammation (e.g., during infertility work-up or elevated PSA) who may or may not need treatment depending on context

Urgent evaluation is needed for high fever, rigors, severe urinary retention, or suspected sepsis.

Best Clinics in Korea for Prostatitis Treatment

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for prostatitis treatment:

| Yezak Urology Website{data-slug="yezak-urology" data-position="1"} | Yezak Urology in Apgujeong stands out as the best clinic for prostatitis treatment in Korea by combining targeted, evidence-informed care with the resources of a comprehensive men’s health center. A multi-specialist team delivers both surgical and non-surgical care within advanced safety systems, tailoring therapy for acute and chronic prostatitis with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, pelvic floor therapy, and lifestyle guidance to relieve pelvic pain, improve urinary symptoms, and address sexual health impacts. The clinic’s broad expertise in related conditions—such as BPH, erectile dysfunction (including implants and non-surgical treatments), Peyronie’s disease, STD diagnosis and treatment, and general health checkups—enables integrated evaluation and coordinated management of overlapping urinary and sexual health issues that commonly accompany prostatitis. With urologic surgeons and men’s health specialists working together to prioritize function, recovery, and safety, Yezak Urology offers precise, individualized pathways that help patients regain comfort and quality of life, making it the premier destination in Korea for effective, comprehensive prostatitis care. | Antibiotics; anti-inflammatories; pelvic floor therapy; lifestyle guidance; erectile dysfunction implants and non-surgical treatments |

Yezak Urology

Yezak Urology in Apgujeong stands out as the best clinic for prostatitis treatment in Korea by combining targeted, evidence-informed care with the resources of a comprehensive men’s health center. A multi-specialist team delivers both surgical and non-surgical care within advanced safety systems, tailoring therapy for acute and chronic prostatitis with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, pelvic floor therapy, and lifestyle guidance to relieve pelvic pain, improve urinary symptoms, and address sexual health impacts. The clinic’s broad expertise in related conditions—such as BPH, erectile dysfunction (including implants and non-surgical treatments), Peyronie’s disease, STD diagnosis and treatment, and general health checkups—enables integrated evaluation and coordinated management of overlapping urinary and sexual health issues that commonly accompany prostatitis. With urologic surgeons and men’s health specialists working together to prioritize function, recovery, and safety, Yezak Urology offers precise, individualized pathways that help patients regain comfort and quality of life, making it the premier destination in Korea for effective, comprehensive prostatitis care.

You can check out their website here: Yezak Urology Website

How Care Typically Proceeds in Korea

• Initial urology evaluation includes history, symptom scoring (e.g., NIH-CPSI), and targeted physical exam with careful digital rectal examination (DRE). Vigorous prostate massage is avoided in suspected acute bacterial prostatitis.
• Laboratory testing often includes urinalysis and urine culture; targeted STI testing (NAAT) when indicated; and, for chronic cases, a two-glass or four-glass test (Meares–Stamey) to localize infection/inflammation. PSA may be transiently elevated during inflammation and is generally deferred until recovery.
• Imaging is used selectively: transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or pelvic CT/MRI for suspected abscess or when the diagnosis is unclear. Korean centers commonly use TRUS for both diagnosis and image-guided procedures.
• Phenotype-based planning (UPOINT system) is frequently applied for CP/CPPS to match therapies to urinary, psychosocial, organ-specific, infection, neurologic/systemic, and musculoskeletal tenderness domains.

Treatment by Prostatitis Type

1) Acute Bacterial Prostatitis (ABP)

• Setting: Often managed in hospital if there is high fever, systemic toxicity, urinary retention, or significant comorbidity. Stable patients may be treated outpatient with close follow-up.
• Antibiotics:
  • Empiric therapy targets gram-negative uropathogens and is adjusted when culture results return.
  • Common regimens include an initial parenteral agent (e.g., ceftriaxone, cefepime, piperacillin–tazobactam) in severe cases, with step-down to an oral antibiotic (fluoroquinolone, trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, doxycycline) guided by susceptibility.
  • Duration is typically 2–4 weeks; longer if complications occur.
  • Fluoroquinolone resistance in East Asia has risen; Korean clinicians emphasize culture-guided therapy and stewardship.
• Supportive measures: Hydration, antipyretics, analgesics, stool softeners; alpha-blockers may reduce voiding discomfort.
• Urinary retention: Suprapubic catheterization is preferred over urethral catheterization to avoid prostatic manipulation.
• Complications: Prostate abscess may require image-guided drainage.

2) Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis (CBP)

• Presentation: Recurrent UTIs with the same organism; pelvic or perineal discomfort; positive localization cultures (EPS, VB3) or semen culture.
• Antibiotics:
  • Oral agents with good prostatic penetration (fluoroquinolones, TMP–SMX, doxycycline) for 4–6 weeks or longer.
  • Fosfomycin is considered for multidrug-resistant organisms in selected cases.
  • Suppressive low-dose antibiotics may be used short-term to prevent recurrences in carefully selected patients.
• Adjuncts: Alpha-blockers, NSAIDs, and sometimes 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors in men with concomitant BPH.
• Refractory cases: Evaluate for prostatic calculi/biofilm, urinary tract abnormalities, or occult abscess; procedural options may be considered selectively.

3) Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS)

• Nature: Pain-predominant syndrome without a consistently identifiable pathogen; multifactorial with pelvic floor dysfunction, central sensitization, and psychosocial contributors.
• Multimodal therapy, often personalized using UPOINT:
  • Urinary domain: Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) for voiding symptoms; short courses of anticholinergics or beta-3 agonists for urgency/frequency when appropriate.
  • Organ-specific/inflammatory: Short NSAID trials; phytotherapy (e.g., quercetin, pollen extract); limited evidence for saw palmetto in symptom relief for some patients.
  • Infection domain: A single empiric antibiotic trial may be considered early if there are suggestive features, but repeated courses without culture evidence are discouraged.
  • Neurologic/systemic: Neuromodulators for chronic pain (amitriptyline, nortriptyline, duloxetine; or gabapentin/pregabalin).
  • Tenderness/musculoskeletal: Pelvic floor physical therapy with myofascial release, biofeedback, relaxation training; home stretching and breathing techniques. Korea has broad access to specialized pelvic floor physiotherapists.
  • Psychosocial: Cognitive-behavioral strategies, stress reduction, sleep optimization; addressing anxiety or depression that often coexists with chronic pelvic pain.
• Additional modalities with variable evidence: Acupuncture (available in integrative Korean clinics), trigger-point injections for pelvic floor hypertonicity, low-dose PDE5 inhibitors if erectile dysfunction coexists.

4) Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis (Category IV)

• Often an incidental finding (elevated PSA or leukocytes in semen).
• Typically no treatment is required unless there are fertility concerns or concomitant infections; management is individualized.

Procedure-Based Interventions

• Prostate abscess drainage:
  • TRUS-guided transrectal or transperineal needle aspiration is standard in Korea for abscesses not responding to antibiotics or those larger than a threshold size.
  • Repeated aspirations may be necessary; cultures from aspirate guide antibiotics.
• Suprapubic cystostomy:
  • Preferred temporary urinary diversion in acute prostatitis with retention to avoid urethral manipulation and reduce bacteremia risk.
• Pelvic floor and pain procedures:
  • Ultrasound-guided trigger-point injections and pudendal nerve blocks may help select CP/CPPS patients with refractory myofascial pain or neuropathic features.
  • Botulinum toxin injections into pelvic floor muscles are used in specialized centers for severe hypertonicity; intraprostatic botulinum toxin remains investigational.
• Prostate massage:
  • Avoid in acute bacterial prostatitis due to bacteremia risk.
  • In chronic settings, gentle massage has historically been combined with antibiotics, but evidence is mixed; it is not a routine recommendation.
• Surgical options:
  • Transurethral procedures (e.g., TURP) are not standard for prostatitis but may be considered in rare, highly selected cases with obstructive pathology or persistent infection associated with prostatic stones after exhaustive conservative management.

Diagnostic Tests Commonly Used

• Urinalysis and urine culture (pre- and post-prostatic massage in chronic cases)
• STI testing (chlamydia, gonorrhea) via NAAT in at-risk populations
• Semen analysis/culture in select chronic cases
• Inflammatory localization tests (two-glass or Meares–Stamey four-glass test)
• Imaging: TRUS for abscess detection and guidance; CT/MRI if concern for complications or alternate diagnoses
• Symptom scoring: NIH-CPSI to track severity and response
• PSA testing deferred until inflammation subsides to avoid false elevation

Medications and Considerations

• Antibiotics: Use culture-directed therapy when possible; monitor for side effects (e.g., tendinopathy and neuropathy with fluoroquinolones).
• Alpha-blockers: Improve voiding symptoms and may reduce pain flares in CP/CPPS.
• Anti-inflammatories: Short courses of NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors can reduce pain and inflammation.
• Neuromodulators: For chronic pain modulation; titrated to effect and tolerability.
• 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: Consider in older men with enlarged prostates and concomitant LUTS.
• Probiotics and GI protection: Consider during prolonged antibiotic therapy to mitigate gastrointestinal side effects.

Lifestyle and Self-Management

• Hydration and timed voiding
• Limiting bladder irritants (caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods) during flares
• Warm sitz baths or heat therapy for pelvic floor relaxation
• Gentle physical activity; avoid prolonged sitting and pressure on the perineum (e.g., cycling adjustments or padded seats)
• Stress management, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene
• Regular, comfortable ejaculation may help some patients, though effects vary

Special Populations and Etiologies

• Younger men with urethritis risk: Screen/treat for STIs
• Men who practice receptive anal intercourse: Assess for enteric pathogens and consider rectal exposure risk
• Immunocompromised patients and older adults: Higher risk for severe infection and complications; lower threshold for hospitalization
• Tuberculous or fungal prostatitis: Rare; consider in refractory cases with risk factors (e.g., TB exposure, long-term immunosuppression), with infectious disease consultation as needed

Outcomes, Timelines, and Follow-Up

• Acute bacterial prostatitis: Symptom improvement usually within 48–72 hours of appropriate therapy; complete antibiotic courses to prevent relapse. Follow-up cultures may be obtained after completion.
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis: Requires longer treatment; relapses can occur, requiring reassessment of anatomic or stone-related reservoirs.
• CP/CPPS: Chronic condition with fluctuating course; multimodal therapy often yields meaningful symptom reduction over weeks to months. Regular reassessment and adjustment of the treatment plan are key.

Accessing Prostatitis Care in Korea

• Urology departments in tertiary hospitals and specialized clinics provide comprehensive diagnostics, TRUS-guided procedures, and pelvic floor physiotherapy.
• International patient centers in major Korean hospitals can coordinate appointments, interpretation services, and streamlined care pathways.
• Costs vary by facility and complexity; residents may use National Health Insurance benefits, while visitors typically pay out-of-pocket or via international insurance.

Prostatitis Treatment in Korea

Seeking evaluation and treatment for prostatitis in Korea typically involves a streamlined, well-coordinated experience, from booking to follow-up. Korea’s large tertiary hospitals (especially in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu) have urology departments with English-language “international clinics” that help with appointment scheduling, interpretation, billing, and medical travel logistics.

What to arrange before you go

• Medical records: prior urine cultures, STI tests, imaging (ultrasound/MRI), medication list, allergy list, and a brief symptom timeline.
• Insurance: confirm whether your international insurance is accepted directly or if you must self-pay and seek reimbursement.
• Appointment: you can book via hospital websites’ international centers, phone, or email. For urgent symptoms (fever, severe pain, inability to urinate), go directly to an emergency department.

The first visit: registration and consultation

• Registration: at the international clinic desk, staff help you register, verify ID/insurance, and set up translation if needed. You’ll receive a patient number used throughout your visit.
• Waiting time: typically 10–40 minutes; urgent cases are triaged sooner.
• Consultation with a urologist:
  • Detailed history: urinary frequency/urgency, weak stream, pain location (perineum, suprapubic, low back), sexual function, bowel habits, stress, prior infections, antibiotics taken, and symptom duration.
  • Standard questionnaires: NIH Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) to quantify pain, urinary symptoms, and quality of life.
  • Physical exam: abdominal exam, external genital exam, and digital rectal exam (DRE) to assess prostate tenderness/size and pelvic floor muscle tension. A chaperone is available on request.
  • Immediate guidance: hydration, pain control, and instructions to avoid vigorous prostatic massage if acute infection is suspected.

Diagnostic work-up: what to expect

Tests are tailored to the suspected subtype (acute bacterial, chronic bacterial, chronic pelvic pain syndrome [CP/CPPS], or asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis).

• Laboratory tests:
  • Urinalysis and urine culture (often pre- and post-prostatic massage for chronic cases).
  • Blood tests if systemic symptoms: complete blood count, CRP/ESR; sometimes PSA (usually delayed until infection calms).
  • STI testing (NAAT) if risk factors present.
• Specialized prostatitis testing (select cases):
  • Meares–Stamey 4-glass test or simplified 2-glass test: sequential urine and expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) samples to localize infection.
  • Semen culture in recurrent cases or fertility concerns.
• Urology studies:
  • Uroflowmetry and post-void residual volume to assess obstruction or incomplete emptying.
  • Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) if abscess suspected or to evaluate anatomy; pelvic MRI for complex/refractory cases.
• Red flags leading to urgent care:
  • Fever, chills, severe perineal pain, urinary retention, sepsis signs. In such cases, prostatic massage is avoided, and IV antibiotics may start immediately.

Many hospitals batch tests on the same day. Results for urinalysis return within hours; cultures typically 48–72 hours.

How subtype influences your care pathway

• Acute bacterial prostatitis:
  • Setting: emergency department or urgent clinic.
  • Care: IV fluids, pain control, and empiric IV antibiotics (adjusted to culture results). Hospitalization is common for high fever, severe pain, inability to urinate, or immunocompromise.
  • Catheterization: if retention occurs, a suprapubic catheter may be favored over transurethral in some cases to reduce prostatic irritation.
  • Imaging: TRUS or CT if poor response in 48–72 hours to rule out abscess.
• Chronic bacterial prostatitis:
  • Care: targeted oral antibiotics (often 4–6 weeks), sometimes with alpha‑blockers to improve urinary flow and anti-inflammatories for pain.
  • Adjuncts: probiotic support, timed voiding, and avoidance of bladder irritants (caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods).
• Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS; non-bacterial):
  • Multimodal approach over weeks to months:
    • Medications: alpha‑blockers, anti‑inflammatories, neuropathic pain modulators (e.g., low‑dose tricyclics, gabapentinoids) when appropriate.
    • Pelvic floor physical therapy: myofascial release, trigger point therapy, biofeedback; widely available at tertiary centers.
    • Behavioral therapy: stress reduction, sleep optimization, and sometimes cognitive behavioral therapy when central sensitization is suspected.
    • Lifestyle: graded exercise, warm sitz baths, bowel habit optimization to reduce pelvic strain.
  • Periodic reassessment with NIH-CPSI to track progress.
• Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis:
  • Often discovered incidentally; management varies and may involve observation rather than treatment unless fertility or PSA evaluation is involved.

Procedures you might encounter

• TRUS-guided prostate abscess drainage (for complicated acute infections):
  • Setting: procedure room under local anesthesia with sedation as needed.
  • Experience: you’ll lie on your side; a lubricated ultrasound probe is inserted rectally for visualization. A fine needle is passed transrectally or transperineally to drain pus. The procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes.
  • Aftercare: brief observation, oral/IV antibiotics continued, and follow-up imaging if symptoms persist.
• Pelvic floor interventions for CP/CPPS:
  • In-clinic therapy sessions 1–2 times per week for several weeks.
  • Home program of stretches, diaphragmatic breathing, and relaxation techniques.
• Prostatic massage:
  • Sometimes used diagnostically or as part of therapy in select chronic cases; practice varies and is usually avoided during acute infection.

Korean centers generally do not promote unproven intraprostatic injection therapies for routine prostatitis; your urologist will discuss evidence-based options and why certain procedures may or may not be offered.

Inpatient experience (if hospitalized)

• Rooms: options range from multi-bed rooms to private suites; international patients often choose private rooms for privacy and ease of interpretation.
• Daily routine: vital checks every 4–8 hours, medication rounds, and one or two physician team visits per day. Physical therapy consults may occur for pelvic floor guidance in CP/CPPS even during inpatient stays.
• Meals: Korean and Western menu options; dietary adjustments for gastrointestinal tolerance if on antibiotics.
• Visitors and amenities: visitor hours are set; Wi‑Fi is standard; international TV and translation devices are commonly available.
• Billing: a deposit may be requested; interim bills are itemized and payable by card. Discharge occurs once fever resolves, pain is controlled, and urine parameters improve.

Outpatient course and follow-up

• Timeline:
  • Acute bacterial: after IV stabilization, transition to oral antibiotics for 2–4 weeks with a follow-up visit at 1–2 weeks and again after completion to confirm resolution.
  • Chronic bacterial: clinic reviews every 2–4 weeks during therapy; repeat cultures if symptoms persist.
  • CP/CPPS: visits every 4–8 weeks to adjust a multimodal plan; PT weekly or biweekly initially.
• Pharmacy:
  • Prescriptions are typically filled at external pharmacies within a short walk; pharmacists often have basic English proficiency in major cities.
• Remote support:
  • Many hospitals use patient portals or messaging for lab results, side-effect checks, and appointment management.

Medications you may be offered and what it feels like to take them

• Antibiotics: choices depend on culture/sensitivity and stewardship policies. Courses can be long; you’ll be counseled about adherence and side effects (GI upset, photosensitivity, tendon symptoms with certain classes, drug interactions).
• Alpha‑blockers (e.g., tamsulosin): may improve urinary flow; possible dizziness or lightheadedness, especially at night—staff will advise dosing at bedtime and caution with sudden standing.
• Anti‑inflammatories/analgesics: NSAIDs can reduce pain; you’ll receive guidance on stomach protection and maximum daily doses.
• Neuromodulators: low‑dose tricyclics or gabapentinoids can dampen neuropathic pain; effects are gradual over 2–4 weeks; drowsiness or dry mouth may occur.
• Adjuncts: stool softeners to prevent straining, topical heat, and sitz bath instructions.

Recovery, self-care, and daily life in Korea during treatment

• Activity: light walking encouraged; avoid prolonged sitting on hard surfaces. A donut cushion or ergonomic chair can help during flares.
• Hydration and diet: water intake spaced through the day; reduce caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, and very spicy foods if they trigger symptoms.
• Sexual activity: your clinician will advise based on subtype; brief abstinence may be recommended during acute infection.
• Travel: for procedures like abscess drainage, allow 48–72 hours before long flights; request a medical letter for airlines if needed.

Costs and payment

Costs vary by hospital and complexity. Self-pay ballpark ranges for international patients (excluding travel and lodging) can include:

• Initial specialist consult and basic labs: approximately USD 120–300
• Urine cultures and STI panels: USD 40–200
• Uroflowmetry and bladder scan: USD 60–150
• Transrectal ultrasound: USD 150–350
• Pelvic MRI (if needed): USD 500–1,200
• Pelvic floor physical therapy (per session): USD 60–120
• Outpatient antibiotic course (total medication cost): USD 20–150, depending on drug and duration
• Inpatient care (per day, excluding private room upgrades): USD 600–1,500
• TRUS-guided abscess drainage: USD 800–2,000

Hospitals provide itemized estimates before major tests or admissions. Payment by international credit card is widely accepted.

Language, culture, and practical tips

• Interpretation: international clinics offer in-person or phone interpretation in English and other languages. Booking with interpretation reduces visit times.
• Privacy and consent: you’ll sign procedure-specific consent forms; staff explain risks/benefits and invite questions.
• Pharmacies: bring your passport for controlled prescriptions; keep medication boxes for customs during return travel.
• Weekend/after-hours care: large hospitals run 24/7 emergency departments; outpatient clinics may have limited weekend hours.
• Comfort items: consider bringing a portable cushion, warm packs, and any personal over-the-counter remedies you already tolerate.

When to seek urgent help while in Korea

• Fever above 38.3°C (101°F), rigors, worsening pelvic pain
• Inability to urinate or severe urinary retention symptoms
• New severe back pain with weakness or numbness, or blood in urine
• Rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties after starting a new medication

Cost of Prostatitis Treatment in Korea

Below are typical self-pay price ranges for foreign patients in South Korea. Actual costs vary by hospital tier (local clinic vs. tertiary hospital), city, language services, and whether advanced imaging or inpatient care is required. Currency conversions use 1 USD ≈ 1,350 KRW and are approximate.

Key factors that influence cost

• Care setting: community urology clinic is usually cheaper than an international clinic at a tertiary hospital.
• Condition subtype and severity: acute bacterial prostatitis or prostatic abscess can require ER care and hospitalization; chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) often involves multi-modality therapy.
• Diagnostics chosen: adding TRUS or MRI increases cost.
• Service extras: private rooms, premium scheduling, and interpreter/concierge services add fees.
• Insurance status: most foreign medical tourists pay list prices; NHIS subsidies generally do not apply.

Typical medical cost ranges (KRW and USD)

• Initial urology consultation: 50,000–150,000 KRW ($37–$110)
• Follow-up visit: 30,000–80,000 KRW ($22–$60)

Diagnostics

• Urinalysis + urine culture: 40,000–90,000 KRW ($30–$67)
• PSA test (if indicated): 20,000–40,000 KRW ($15–$30)
• Uroflowmetry/post-void residual: 20,000–60,000 KRW ($15–$45)
• Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS): 120,000–250,000 KRW ($90–$185)
• Pelvic/prostate MRI (if needed): 500,000–1,200,000 KRW ($370–$890)
• Semen analysis (select cases): 30,000–70,000 KRW ($22–$52)

Outpatient treatments and therapies

• Oral antibiotics (2–6 weeks, drug-dependent): 50,000–250,000 KRW ($37–$185)
• Alpha-blocker (1 month): 10,000–40,000 KRW ($7–$30)
• Anti-inflammatories/analgesics (1 month): 5,000–20,000 KRW ($4–$15)
• Pelvic floor physical therapy (per session): 60,000–150,000 KRW ($45–$110)
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for CPPS (per session, if offered): 100,000–300,000 KRW ($75–$220)
• Trigger-point injections/nerve block (per session): 150,000–400,000 KRW ($110–$300)
• Neuromodulation/TENS rental (per week): 30,000–80,000 KRW ($22–$60)

Emergency/inpatient care (for acute bacterial prostatitis or abscess)

• Emergency department visit + basic tests: 200,000–600,000 KRW ($150–$445)
• Inpatient room per night:
  • Multi-bed/general: 200,000–500,000 KRW ($150–$370)
  • Private room: 300,000–800,000 KRW ($220–$590)
• IV antibiotics and daily labs (per day): 80,000–200,000 KRW ($60–$150)
• TRUS-guided prostatic abscess drainage (if needed): 800,000–2,000,000 KRW ($590–$1,480)
• Catheterization (if needed): 50,000–150,000 KRW ($37–$110)

Bundled or program pricing (varies by center)

• International-clinic prostatitis workup package (same-day labs + imaging + consults): 800,000–2,500,000 KRW ($590–$1,850)
• CPPS multi-disciplinary program (2–4 weeks of PT, pain management, follow-ups): 1,500,000–5,000,000 KRW ($1,110–$3,700)

Sample total scenarios (medical only)

• Basic outpatient evaluation (consult + labs + TRUS + 1 month meds): 300,000–600,000 KRW ($220–$445)
• Outpatient evaluation plus MRI: 800,000–1,900,000 KRW ($590–$1,405)
• CPPS pathway (evaluation + 4 PT sessions + 2 ESWT + meds): 900,000–2,200,000 KRW ($670–$1,630)
• Acute bacterial prostatitis with 3-night hospitalization (room + IV meds + tests): 1,200,000–3,500,000 KRW ($890–$2,590), excluding any procedure

Important billing notes

• Some non-insured services and devices can include 10% VAT.
• International clinics may add interpretation/admin fees; many hospitals offer basic interpreter services at low or no cost.
• Ask for itemized estimates and whether cash discounts apply.

Estimated travel costs to Korea

Flights (roundtrip economy, typical ranges by origin and season)

• US West Coast: $800–$1,500
• US East Coast: $1,000–$1,800
• Europe: $700–$1,400
• Middle East: $600–$1,200
• Australia/New Zealand: $600–$1,200
• Southeast Asia: $150–$500
• Intra-NE Asia (Japan/China/Taiwan): $120–$400

Local transportation

• Airport to Seoul:
  • AREX train: 4,150–9,500 KRW ($3–$7)
  • Airport limousine bus: 17,000–18,000 KRW ($13–$14)
  • Taxi (Incheon–central Seoul): 55,000–80,000 KRW + tolls ($41–$60)
  • Private transfer: 80,000–120,000 KRW ($60–$90)
• In-city:
  • Subway/bus per ride: 1,400–1,800 KRW ($1–$1.35)
  • Taxi base fare: ~4,800 KRW ($3.50) plus distance/time

Accommodation (per night)

• Budget guesthouse/business hotel: 50,000–100,000 KRW ($37–$75)
• Mid-range hotel: 120,000–250,000 KRW ($90–$185)
• 4–5 star/international brand: 250,000–600,000 KRW ($185–$445)
• Serviced apartment near medical hubs: 150,000–350,000 KRW ($110–$260)

Meals and daily expenses (per person)

• Simple local meal: 8,000–15,000 KRW ($6–$11)
• Mid-range restaurant: 15,000–30,000 KRW ($11–$22)
• Western/fine dining: 25,000–60,000 KRW ($19–$45)
• SIM/eSIM or portable Wi‑Fi (7–10 days): 15,000–40,000 KRW ($11–$30)
• Translation/escort (if needed): 100,000–300,000 KRW/day ($75–$220)

Other trip costs

• Travel insurance with medical coverage: $50–$200 per trip (age/coverage dependent)
• Visa/K-ETA (if applicable): about 10,000 KRW ($7.50); many nationalities are visa-exempt
• Miscellaneous (laundry, incidentals): 30,000–80,000 KRW/day ($22–$60)

Illustrative one-week travel budgets (excluding medical fees)

• Budget traveler: $800–$1,500 (shared/budget lodging, public transit, local dining)
• Mid-range: $1,500–$3,000 (3–4 star hotel, mix of taxis and transit, restaurant dining)
• Companion or caregiver travel may double certain costs (flights, meals, accommodation size)

How to estimate your total

• Add your expected medical pathway (e.g., outpatient workup + PT sessions, or inpatient stay).
• Choose a flight range based on origin and season.
• Multiply accommodation by nights needed; add local transport and meals.
• Include a contingency of 10–20% for extra tests, additional therapy sessions, or schedule changes.

Alternatives to Prostatitis Treatment

For many men—especially those with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS)—non‑drug or complementary options can help reduce pain, urinary symptoms, and flare frequency. The options below are typically used alongside medical care and are not substitutes for antibiotics in acute bacterial prostatitis.

Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT)

• What it is: A targeted program led by a pelvic health physiotherapist to address pelvic floor muscle hypertonicity, trigger points, and poor coordination that can perpetuate pelvic pain and urinary symptoms.
• What it involves:
  • External and internal myofascial release and trigger‑point therapy
  • Biofeedback to learn relaxation/coordination of pelvic floor muscles
  • Breathwork (diaphragmatic breathing), gentle stretching, and posture retraining
  • A structured home program to maintain gains
• Who it may help: Men with CP/CPPS who have pelvic floor tenderness, perineal or penile pain, pain with sitting, or urinary hesitancy/weak stream not explained by obstruction.
• Evidence snapshot: Randomized and prospective studies show clinically meaningful improvements in NIH‑CPSI scores and quality of life for many patients; major urology guidelines list PFPT as a core non‑pharmacologic option.
• Safety notes: Low risk when performed by trained clinicians. Avoid during acute infections or immediately after certain urologic procedures unless cleared by your urologist.

Lifestyle and self‑management strategies

• Activity and movement:
  • Regular moderate aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling with a split‑nose or well‑padded saddle) can reduce pain and improve mood; avoid prolonged sitting and high‑pressure perineal activities during flares.
  • Gentle mobility work (hip flexor, adductor, and lower‑back stretches) supports pelvic mechanics.
• Heat and comfort:
  • Warm sitz baths or heating pads to the perineum/lower pelvis relax muscles and ease pain.
  • Use cushions or donut pillows for long sitting periods.
• Diet and hydration:
  • Identify and limit symptom triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, very spicy or acidic foods; maintain steady hydration.
  • Manage constipation with fiber, fluids, and timely bowel habits to reduce pelvic strain.
• Bladder and sexual habits:
  • Timed voiding to avoid overdistension; avoid “just in case” urination that can aggravate urgency cycles.
  • Regular, comfortable ejaculation may help some men; avoid if it reliably triggers flares.
• Stress and sleep:
  • Mindfulness, paced breathing, or cognitive‑behavioral strategies can blunt pain amplification and urinary urgency linked to stress; prioritize 7–8 hours of sleep.
• Flare management plan:
  • Keep a symptom diary to spot triggers; prepare a flare toolkit (heat, gentle stretches, short walking breaks, hydration).
• Evidence snapshot: Trials and cohort studies support benefits of exercise, stress reduction, heat, and trigger avoidance; these measures are low risk and often synergize with other therapies.
• Safety notes: Tailor changes gradually; seek medical evaluation for new or worsening urinary retention, fever, or severe pain.

Acupuncture (including electroacupuncture)

• What it is: Needle‑based neuromodulation that may reduce pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and central sensitization; electroacupuncture applies low‑level electrical stimulation to needles for added effect.
• How it’s used:
  • Typically 1–2 sessions per week for 4–8 weeks, then tapered based on response.
  • Points may include pelvic, sacral, and systemic locations; protocols vary by practitioner.
• Evidence snapshot: Multiple randomized trials and meta‑analyses report moderate improvements in NIH‑CPSI total and pain subscores versus sham or usual care in CP/CPPS, with low rates of adverse events.
• Who may benefit: Men with persistent pain or urinary symptoms despite standard medical therapy, or those seeking to minimize medication use.
• Safety notes: Generally well tolerated when performed with sterile technique by licensed practitioners. Not a treatment for acute bacterial prostatitis (fever, chills, systemic illness); seek urgent medical care for those symptoms. Avoid if you have bleeding disorders or are on certain anticoagulants without medical clearance.

Conclusion

In summary, prostatitis treatment ranges from targeted antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections to multimodal strategies—such as alpha‑blockers, anti‑inflammatories, pelvic floor physical therapy, and lifestyle modification—for chronic or nonbacterial forms, and Korea is a practical option for many patients thanks to its organized urology services, modern diagnostics, and integrated rehabilitation and support. When considering care in Korea, weigh total costs beyond the procedure itself, including consultations, imaging, medications, interpreter services, and travel and lodging, and request an itemized estimate and clarity on insurance or self-pay policies before committing. For some, alternatives may be more suitable: optimizing conservative measures at home, pursuing pelvic floor therapy locally, using telemedicine for second opinions, or exploring care in your home country to simplify follow‑up. Whatever you choose, align the plan with your diagnosis, symptom severity, budget, and ability to access ongoing care, and partner with a qualified urologist to set expectations and a clear follow‑up path to manage symptoms and prevent recurrences.