Polite Reminder: Get your smear tests done!

[cjt110]

Just that really.

I saw on the BBC news this morning a lady who had her smear test done a few weeks late. Fortunately, her cancer was caught early enough and she is almost 2 years into remission.

It made me wonder about when my last one was - I must call and check.

Also, the sad storyline playing out in Coronation Street at the moment with Sinead.

So... Off you go. Go check. Get it booked.

I agree Thursday. I had my first and only smear test done 17 years ago and have never had another one. I'm not phobic or traumatised I simply did some research and made my decision not to have future smears based on that. Of course if I started exhibiting unusual bleeding etc I would go straight to my doctor.

I do however have breast screening. Again I did my research as I know that mammogram screenings and the frequency of them is the subject of some debate. I do have some risk factors for breast cancer though as well as lumpy breasts which are hard to self examine and a strong family history. On this basis I decided to go ahead with the breast screening. I have made an informed decision and I'm happy with my choice.

IceBearRocks. What do you mean they don't crank you open anymore? They have to open the speculum ? X

I'm in my 20s so only had 2 so far but I would never miss one. I don't care how low risk I might be, low risk isn't the same as no risk and I'd be mad to turn down a free health care service that could potentially save my life.

Saying that though I don't find them painful and I'm not bothered about who sees me down there so it's no different than going for a dental check up for me.

I hate smears but I get them. Sometimes a little late, but they’re still done. I try to book an afternoon appointment so I can take myself off for a large glass of wine immediately afterwards. The thought of a soothing glass of something gets me through the discomfort. And thenI relax. It’s done until the next time!

But my friend has just been diagnosed with stomach cancer because she didn't make time for her to see the Dr!!!

How did not going to see the Dr cause stomach cancer?