Anyone else unable to have a smear test done?

[NotLateInTheMorning]

Finally at the consent signing stage for IVF - except, I went this morning to local GP surgery to have a smear test done and (as before) was not able to have it done.

I know I need to have one done before IVF can begin. I find internal examinations very difficult but have managed to have many of these done because I am able to insert the probe in myself. It's just the smear test. The nurse said she would refer me to the hospital to try and have it done there. I don't want to miss IVF because of this - it is so silly, I know.

Has anyone else had issues with getting a smear done? Were you able to get beyond them?

thanks.

Sorry I don't understand why they couldn't do it?

Because you wanted to insert the speculum yourself?

Might be worth booking a telephone gp consult if your nervous to see if they can offer some advice.

It could be a problem if you have IVF. Are you going to be able to cope with the embryo transfer procedure ?

Thanks for your reply.

I'm in my mid thirties and never been able to have a smear done. I completely seize up. No matter how much I tell myself it won't hurt and will be over quickly.

Today I really tried to relax and think of the end goal (being able to have IVF). But still wasn't able to have it done.

I rang the fertility clinic and spoke to a nurse who said that they would not be able to continue with IVF without it.

I know it is irrational - thousands of women have smear tests done and it doesn't take very long . My reaction is illogical but it manifests physically - my muscles just tense up.

Apologies if it's too much information.

Nathalie 1975 - I was hoping that it may be possible to have the embryo transfer procedure done under general anesthetic. I briefly spoke to the consultant about it during the initial consultation.

I only found out about the need to for a smear at the information session.

Not sure if this will help but when I had psycho sexual counselling (a long time ago!) one of the best pieces of advice they gave me about tension up was to breath out as anything was being inserted. It’s physically impossible to tense and breath out. Worth a go no?

I understand completely. This is not something that is voluntary, it is totally out of your control so don't feel you're being silly. Have you thought perhaps you may have slight vaginismus? It is not as uncommon as you would think but can be overcome. My practice nurse spent 3 appointments with me so I didn't feel rushed and I also had something prescribed by the doctor to relax me.

Was it a metal speculum or a smaller plastic one?

I have had difficulty with smears before but the plastic one is much easier and I think the nurse has even let me insert it before, although they have then needed to carry out the procedure of course.

Have you talked to your IVF providers about the procedures you may need to undergo there? For example an endometrial scratch which also needs a speculum. You may need to consider how you will manage this.

I wish you all the best, and hope you can find a solution.

MrsJones17 – thank you. I’m going to practice that at home. Definitely worth a go ;)

Saddlefish – thanks. When I have tried to have the smear done in the past I’ve been told I have vaginismus. I used to have huge difficulty with penetration but I do think I have made progress over the past (many) years. My DH is super patient! I have managed to have lots of tests done at the fertility centre, including having the procedure where they insert dye into the fallopian tubes. Glad you managed to get yours done.

MsJuniper – thank you for your kind words. I didn’t actually look to see whether the speculum was metal or plastic, we actually didn’t get that far. I didn’t manage to allow her to touch me at all. I did talk to the consultant about my issues right at the start, so they are aware. And, they have managed to do all the tests that allow you to get to the consent signing stage.

I think the issue is that I feel this is my last chance at trying to have a baby and I tense up involuntary because I am so nervous. I’m going to try again.