Smear tests for plus-size women- reassurance needed.

[ringletsandtwiglets]

Hi everyone,

I’ve been putting off having my smear test done because I’m embarrassed about how fat I am, and scared that they won’t be able to do the test properly.

I’m a size 24, so significantly overweight. Is there anyone here who is a similar size who can put my mind at ease over the process, how you felt, any tips to make things easier? Please help!

Hello.

I was you afew months ago.

Im size 24 too...
They managed it fine and all was ok.

Please dont put it off any longer.
Its a nurse and she would of seen "ALOT" worse, believe me

Am the same, keep putting it off, am size 18 and don’t want any part of my body on show to anyone

I was a size 24 and am not now but still a 16. I had smears done then and now and there was no difference at all, I’ve not been treated differently at all. Never been made to feel embarrassed or nervous, the nurses have always been lovely and always treated me with dignity. 2 mins and it’s over and your mind is at rest.

Wear a long top or cardigan if you feel nervous as you’ll feel you’ve got more protection, although they should give you a paper sheet too. Good luck!

Don’t be put off - they may have to use a longer speculum, and perhaps get you to have your fists under your bottom to tilt your pelvis up, but people with high BMI go for smears/pelvic exams all the time and it’s not a problem, so please don’t worry any longer, go book that smear!

Thank you for your fast responses! I’m really bad at seeing the docs and get so nervous. It’s reassuring to hear that women who are/have been my size have had positive experiences.

Oh OP I totally get it.

I’m a size 22 and also felt so mortified at the idea and also put mine off.

But I finally had it done a few months ago and it was totally fine. Dr very professional and kind and didn’t bat an eyelid.

I felt so relieved afterwards.

Good luck xxx

Wear a dress or skirt so you don't feel as exposed. I hate having to take trousers off I just feel more 'naked' ha ha.

It will be fine they will have seen all shapes and sizes and they are only concentrating on doing the test correctly.

This is one test where I just can’t see weight being an issue.

I take hundreds of smears on all shapes and sizes. Bodies are all variations on a theme including cervixes, please don't worry.
We don't care about hairy legs, unpolished toe nails or bikini waxing either

I'm the same size as you and weight has never been an issue during my smear tests.

Best of luck - you can do this!