Slightly embarrassing Q about a smear...

[captainbizzaro]

I'm old enough to not get awkward and embarrassed about this BUT if I have a smear booked in for 11am, should I avoid sex the night before??

Is this a standard thing to do? I think I was single the last time i had a smear so it's not even crossed my mind!

I think it would depend on whether you use condoms or not. If you do then I wouldn’t worry either way but if you don’t then I would avoid it or have him pull out before he cums.
Not sure there is a rule about it but it only seems polite to me

If you use a spermicide, a barrier method of contraception or a lubricant jelly, you shouldn't use these for 24 hours before the test, as the chemicals they contain may affect the test.
That's NHS advice

That's what I was thinking - polite!

Ooh thanks @DustyMaiden so there are some official guidelines on it then...!

I think only with condoms - I think they're not so bothered about mid-cycle now, as long as you aren't on your period, but they're taking a few cells to analyse and they want your cells, as I assume that spermicide won't show up any signs of cervical problems.

Sperm, not spermicide, thank you autocorrect. Though I suppose it's also unlikely to show cervical problems.

Ah, and DustyMaiden showed I don't know what I'm talking about.