I’ve never had a smear test and I don’t want one either

You don't have to have it, but from my perspective - it's a relatively qucik way to identify a very dangerous cancer, very early. Why wouldn't I have it? I don't like it, but I think I'd like cervical cancer even less.

I actually agree with you re prostate. I have discovered it's more complex than the fact that they aren't offering screening routinely, but nonetheless, I think more screening SHOULD be offered and proactively at that. DH has so much prostate cancer in his family - the type that did need to be dealt with - and while our GP is pretty good at agrreeing for him to have screening tests when he asks, I think it should be offered more regularly and proactively. Ditto for other men.

Incidentally, they think that pap smears will be eradicated by the HPV vaccine. Most recent statistics show that [note statistic that's incoming has some riders - keep reading] not a single woman who has had the HPV vaccine so far has been diagnosed with cervical cancer. Admittedly, this is still a small, young cohort and, I can't quite remember if the statistic is across the board, on a geographic basis or if there's other variables that should be added, but I do remember being dazzled by the initial data on the HPV vaccine's success. So it won't be a rpoblem in due course - ie they ARE working on better solutions.

So not so averse to having something inserted inside you after all?

Yes I’ve got a DS. I refused all internal examinations and I had an elective c section. Sorry to disappoint.

Yes I’ve got a DS. I refused all internal examinations and I had an elective c section. Sorry to disappoint.

Controversial I guess, I’m 36.
I don’t think it’s necessary, as I’ve read about my risk factors and I don’t meet the criteria. All the men I’ve slept with (without protection) were virgins and yes I know they were for sure.
I also have no family history of any cancer.
My partner has prostate cancer in both sides of his family, his dad has it currently and he’s not even been offered a screening test for this.
I find this so frustrating and contradictory when women and men are treated so differently and if you refuse smear or breast screening you’re seen as an awful person, and those who do are morally superior.
Men aren’t coerced into invasive internal examinations.
I have an aversion to having things inserted in me internally and feel I have a right to that decision regarding my body.
There are home tests for HPV available, which I have done myself in the past - all clear.
My question is why do they persist with this archaic procedure when there are other options available?

I keep getting phone calls from my GP surgery trying to persuade me to book a test. I don’t understand why they’re always pushing it, but just totally dismiss other medical issues, which has been my experience several times.
Do they get extra commission for this or something?
There are even pop up ‘clinics’ and drop in sessions going ahead near me.

Of course I know I’ll be bombarded with replies saying I’m selfish, stupid and uneducated. I’ve even read other women saying that those who refuse should be denied any medical care!
But I have done my research and I am more than aware of the implications.

Yes if they were just letters I would ignore them but I’m getting regular phone calls directly from my GP surgery trying to coerce me into an appointment.
In contrast, my partner had never received anything like this and as I said in my OP, he is a high risk for prostate cancer.
I’m pretty sure they’ve moved away from the invasive testing for that now too - I don’t understand why they can’t do the same for smears. Oh yes, because we’re not men.

All the men I’ve slept with (without protection) were virgins and yes I know they were for sure.

I have to say this ^^ gave me a great giggle though 🤭

Did they come with certificates or a note from their mums?

Exactly why don’t you want one? Is it because you are embarrassed, or just because you are low risk? If the former then having a baby will be a shock, even straight forward pregnancies have some prodding and poking. Having just had a full hysterectomy for an ovarian cancer scare (and I was low risk !!) the fanny wands were uncomfortable but welcome. Maybe both you and husband get your checks out of solidarity. But if not then just say no. It’s not mandatory.

Are you planning on having children? That’s much more uncomfortable and you have no choice in the invasive internal examination.

Has nobody read the original post?! There are other less invasive options available including at home HPV testing kits, why aren’t these being used or even making women aware of their availability?!