To be absolutely terrified of smear tests

[AnneNonimous]

And internal examinations in general?

I am 21 and have never had a smear test - I am not sure when I'm meant to have one or how often, last I heard you have one at 24?

I know I should have one, I know they are important and can be life saving but I am just so scared. Someone just mentioning them makes me feel tense and anxious and I am crying writing this just thinking about having one.

What the hell do I do about this?

Please go for one and talk to the nurse before hand to tell her how scared you are - they'll be used to dealing with situations like this. No one likes them but they're so vital.