Is a cervical screening painful?
A nurse uses a speculum and a small brush to take a sample of cells from the cervix that are sent away and tested. For a lot of people, it’s a five minute appointment that may be slightly uncomfortable and embarrassing, but is over and done with quickly.
How can I make my cervical screening less painful?
8 Tips For Making Your Smear Test More Comfortable
- Remember that your GP or gynaecologist has seen many vaginas before.
- Wear warm clothing.
- Think of something to distract you during the test.
- Focus on your breathing.
- Ask for a smaller speculum.
- Relieve yourself before the test.
- Communicate with your doctor.
Do smear tests hurt if you’re a virgin?
The reality is that a Pap smear test can hurt whether or not you are a virgin. It shouldn’t usually be painful if everything as it should be physically and you have no vaginal soreness or infections; however, most women do find it a little uncomfortable.
What does smear test feel like?
The speculum feels a bit weird (like extremely slow sex with a large vegetable) but not painful; the actual smear test does hurt (they have to remove cells) – about as much as a vigorously misplaced tampon.
How do I prepare for cervical screening?
Smear test top tips: How to make cervical screening more…
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Ask for a woman to do the test.
- Ask for a smaller speculum.
- Ask to change position.
- Don’t use lubricant.
- Use painkillers if necessary.
- Don’t self-medicate beyond that though.
Why are smear tests so painful?
When Pap smears are uncomfortable, it’s often because there’s a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region. Urinating beforehand can relieve some of this pressure. In some cases, your doctor might request a urine sample, so be sure to ask if it’s OK to use the restroom beforehand.
Why does the speculum hurt so much?
A lubricated speculum will then be inserted into the vagina. Remember to take deep breaths when this happens, and to relax your muscles as much as possible. This will also help the vaginal muscles to relax, making the exam less uncomfortable. Discomfort is typically caused by too-tense muscles.
What should you not do before a smear test?
Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It’s best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.
Should I shave before a smear test?
Do You Have To Shave Before A Smear Test? No. You do not need to remove any body hair before a smear test. It may seem embarrassing due to societal stigma around body hair, but doctors and nurses are used to seeing different types of vaginas and their only aim is to ensure that yours is healthy.
Can I be sedated for a smear test?
The short answer to this question is, yes, you can be sedated to get a pelvic exam and Pap smear. This is not common practice however, and usually only done when there is suspected clinical concern and a routine exam is not possible.