Smear test appointment next week and I am so scared

[NervousHamster]

Which sounds pathetic I know but this will be my third one and my last two were so painful. And when I say painful I don’t just mean uncomfortable or a bit sore I mean actual excruciating pain.

Last time it took multiple attempts over three appointments because it hurt so much but this time I am determined to just get it done in one appointment so it is over.

Any tips for getting through it even though it is probably going to hurt again ☹️

My last one was painful but only because the previous one had picked up some severely abnormal cells which I had to have removed so things where a bit 'tender'. I am forever grateful I didn't put the previous one off.
I have a friend who is terrified every time and she asks for some medication beforehand to help her relax - could you ask for similar?

I have a friend who finds them extremely painful, she has been referred to have them in the hospital in the colposcopy chair with stirrups which makes the procedure far more comfortable for her as her cervix is much easier to access this way. I would ask my GP to refer me for this.

Paracetamol and a really understanding GP or nurse is my solution.

If you have a good gynie, they can use a local anesthetic, (particularly if you are menopausal & dry. )
Being tense wont help of course!

Mild: take paracetamol an hour before you go. Tell them it's hurt before and you are very nervous. Ask for the nurse to take her time in insertion of the speculum. Deep breathing. Ask if you can put your fists under your bum to raise it, if your cervix is at all tilted and difficult to access, this can help a bit.

Otherwise ask for alternatives - does your GP offer meds to relax or can refer you on for sedation?

Hi @NervousHamster I totally understand as mine is due and I've been postponing it despite abnormal bleeding.
The last time I had a double appointment with the lovely practice nurse & the smallest speculum but still it hurt & I couldn't relax enough.
This time: as I take the Cerazette mini pill I probably don't have enough oestrogen so I've got oestrogen vaginal cream tablets to use for 2 weeks first.., also been prescribed Lorezepam 1mg to take 2hours prior to smear them 1mg tablet to take 1 hour prior to smear. This should help relax things.
Plus when I've taken Lorezepam in the past it's made me feel very chilled out!
I just hope it will be successful this time.