First smear test help

[darlingtwinklebum]

Just received my letter about going for my first smear test. Can anyone tell me exactly what happens when you go? Is it painful?
How awkward will it actually be And does anyone have any 'advice'?
I'm sitting here thinking about it all and I know it's ridiculous just need someone else to tell me! Feel really anxious about it for some reason. Thanks

It’s absolutely fine! Really nothing to worry about at all. Takes 2 minutes, doesn’t hurt, maybe a little uncomfortable at most but totally fine. You lie down, they put in a speculum to hold you open (which sounds much worse than it is) little brush of the cervix and you’re done. Just go for it, you’ll be amazed you were ever worried

The nurse will explain what they are doing as they do it. Try and relax (I know that sounds impossible) but that will make it less uncomfortable. It really is just a few minutes and there’s nothing the nurse hasn’t seen before.

This site explains it well - www.jostrust.org.uk/about-cervical-cancer/cervical-screening/what-happens-during-cervical-screening

The idea of it is much worse than it actually is, it seems embarrassing for you because it's not something you do everyday, but all part of the day job for the nurse, don't worry about it.

My advice, book first thing so you can get it over and done with, and not dwell on it all day. And wear a dress or a skirt if you prefer, feels less exposed

@BuffaloCauliflower thanks for the reply!
I think i'm just nervous because I've never had one before. Never really spoken to anyone about having one either.
It'll be fine I know I'm making it a bigger thing in my head

It is very easy, the nurse will explain everything she is going to do, and she will be very gentle. You may feel awkward, but a few minutes of awkwardness is a very small price to pay for a quick test that can literally save your life. Please don't put this off because of your massively over-blown fears.

@Pipandmum @Lellochip thanks for your replies also! You're making me feel better about it already I'm just going to book it and get it over with. Suppose the nurse looks forward to it about as much as I am 😂

Feels like half the nurses in my drs have seen my cervix. Totally normal to be nervous but it's really not bad at all and completely worth it. I am on more regular call backs because I had treatment for unusual cells.
It's a weird feeling and can be uncomfortable for a very brief moment but then it's done. Tell the nurse that you're nervous when you go and they'll help put you at ease.

@Aquamarine1029 I'm definitely going.. not worth the risk is it! I'm just building myself up to book it in the morning
Hopefully I can get an appointment quickly so that I don't spend too much time thinking about it

All the nurses will have done loads of them and won’t even bat an eyelid.

I was so nervous I delayed it a year. Finally got the courage to go in and found an old male Dr was doing it with no nurse present and nearly bolted. Weirdly the second I had my pants off it didn't feel any more awkward than of I was having my ear checked.
My next one is coming up but I've had a baby now so I'm really not that bothered about one more person peeking at my vagina 🤷‍♀️

Well you've all made me feel loads better about it. I'll be sure to read these replies when I go.. they'll calm me down in the moment I'm sure!

Op, don't be afraid to ask questions when you're there if you need clarification, and don't hesitate to tell the nurse that you are nervous and need extra support if that's the case. The nurses are highly trained and take great care to ensure the patient is comfortable and reassured. You will be just fine!