to take DP with me for my smear test?

[CoralFish]

I suffer from anxiety around medical procedures in addition to the normal discomfort of a smear test. They always have to change speculum part way through (I tell them they need a longer one but it's still never quite right) and last time I went to the doctor I had a panic attack when they tried to take my blood pressure, which made it too high, then too low and it was all very silly.

I feel like a right baby and I wish I could just get over it, but I think it would be better if DP was with me. Am I being pathetic to take him into the nurse's room with me, and will it even be allowed with Covid?

YABU: Suck it up and go by yourself - a smear test is nothing and with Covid it's silly to have more people than needed at the surgery

YANBU: It's fine to take him for a hand-hold

Could you discuss a sedative with nurse / gp? I'm seriously considering it for next time.

I had an examination recently OP. The dr used a plastic speculum and before she inserted it and put it in warm water before inserting it. It was a lot better than the metal ones. Maybe request that from the nurse.

Can you buy a blood pressure monitor and do it at home? Would that be better than being in the doctors? Depending on what the trigger is for you, maybe at home with your DH might be less stressful. No mask either!

Also, well done! The smear is the worst bit & now you don't have to go again for 3/5? Years 🙌🏼

Dont think they will permit under covid circumstances, but when you speak to them if you phrase it as "chaperone" rather than "can i bring hubby along" you might have a chance.

Im pretty brave with medical stuff but agree with you OP. Smears just turn my stomach. I have to psyche myself up before I go in. Good on you for still going