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Original poster

To think smears hurt less the more you exercise?

63 replies

ThatPoisedFinch · 12/03/2025 15:21

I’ve noticed that the more I exercise, the less uncomfortable my smear tests seem to be. Could it be that being more active helps with muscle relaxation, circulation, or flexibility? Maybe doing things like yoga or Pilates makes it easier to stay relaxed during the procedure?

Has anyone else experienced this or am I imagining it? Curious to hear if there’s anything to this or if it’s just a coincidence!

OP posts:
Movinghouseatlast · 12/03/2025 15:32

No, not at all.i used to go to the gym 4 times a week and did Pilates twice a week. I had to be prescribed Valium for a smear.

You aren't exercising the inside of your fanny or your cervix.

Octavia64 · 12/03/2025 15:32

I have endo.

I don't exercise much any more but I used to do triathlons.

They've always really hurt. Really really hurt.

Ponoka7 · 12/03/2025 15:30

Like a pp, mine were ok when younger, post 40 and they have become more painful. I no longer get them. I'm probably due to have my coil changed and I'll need pain killers. My DD, who does a lot of exercise and yoga has a tilted cervix and her's are painful.

EveryKneeShallBow · 12/03/2025 15:26

Smear tests never been painful for me, unpleasant but not painful. Not an exercise fan.

CostcoBuns · 12/03/2025 15:26

Smears could largely be replaced by a swab test done at home these days. I believe this is being trialled.

CostcoBuns · 12/03/2025 15:25

It may be true for you. But if you have endometriosis, or any number of other conditions, no amount of exercising will make smears more bearable.

AlwaysCoffee25 · 12/03/2025 15:24

It depends on what aspect you think hurts I suppose? I haven’t actually found them uncomfortable or painful, just unpleasant.

BigGapMum · 12/03/2025 15:24

No, I haven't found that. As I've got older I've found that my smear tests are progressively hurting more, despite me increasing my exercise regime.

CrowsInMyGarden · 12/03/2025 15:24

I've never had a smear hurt either when I have been into exercise or not

GeorgeMichaelsCat · 12/03/2025 15:23

They hurt me a lot, I used to be a gym bunny so don't agree exercise helps.

stackhead · 12/03/2025 15:23

I imagine that you're just more relaxed. Not an exercise fan and never had a proper hurty smear.

MarioJumbo · 12/03/2025 15:23

Interesting

I think you’re right

Worried861 · 12/03/2025 15:22

Hmm not sure. I've never had a smear test that hurt to be fair.