First smear test tomorrow

[flibbertigibbert]

I recently turned 25, so tomorrow I'm going for my first smear test. I'm a bit nervous. Can anyone give me any advice - should I take painkillers beforehand? How long does it last? My friend has invited me to zumba and drinks in the evening - will I be able to do this or does it cause pain afterwards?

[spiderlight]

It only lasts a minute or so and it shouldn't hurt, apart from perhaps a momentary discomfort as the cells are taken. They use a sort of brush thing now, so it's really not painful at all in most cases. My only advice is to try to relax - the nurse will be very experienced and most are really kind and sensitive. You should be absolutely fine afterwards - some people have a tiny bit of spotting but I never have.