I just had a smear test and it wasn’t that bad

[NoraLuka]

Just putting this out there to encourage anyone else who is in same situation. I’m 37 and had never had a smear test. Until today, when I saw a new doctor who basically said let’s get it over and done with, so I did and it really wasn’t that bad. It was slightly uncomfortable but didn’t hurt and took all of 30 seconds.

That’s all for now

I’ve also never found them that bad despite suffering with vestibulodynia but then maybe because of that I’m used to a bit of discomfort down there. Everyone’s different obviously, but all of mine have taken seconds so even with discomfort it’s not something I dread or anything. I do wonder if finding it very painful indicates another issue maybe - or that the nurse isn’t doing it right?? I don’t think finding it very painful or excruciating as another pp said should be considered normal.

There is no doubt in my mind that if this was a procedure men had to endure the medical profession would have found an alternative to the speculum which is a century old instrument akin to an instrument of torture

This.

I hope that when you went to see your GP today, you were there for your smear test. I hope that you were not railroaded into it and that you had full and informed consent.

And this.