HATE Smear test

[sjxoxo]

I know they are for the greater good but I really hate having them done. Went to my post natal appointment today and they offered me a smear test (I had C sec) and I reluctantly agreed as it’s been a couple of years at least. Anyway we had to abandon it as after they put the speculum in I was in too much discomfort… I don’t know if it’s just because I’ve only just had baby boy (9 weeks ago) or if my fear of them is growing but I just couldn’t carry on with the discomfort.

I hate the whole shebang- the awkwardness, those hideous metal stirrups that make me feel like an animal, the total invasiveness of the whole thing.

The gynaecologist gave me a speech about how I really should come back at a later date but honestly I think now I’m not capable of doing the procedure. My grandma had cervical cancer so I know it’s important but I just cannot face it.

What can I do to overcome this. Grateful for any thoughts xxx

Are you in the uk?
They only test for hpv anyway so you could buy a hpv test kit and do it yourself

I’ve never had stirrups. That doesn’t sound usual to me. Smear tests are normally done by a nurse, not a gynaecologist.

Nobody likes having them done, I’ve had to go back too.
The most bearable one I’ve had was when my G.P carried it out, used a warm speculum and ky jelly- that was my first smear. The others have been far less pleasant!

I wouldn’t have one after just having a baby, I’d wait at least six months if not a year. I always let the nurse know I’m nervous/anxious. Breathe deeply, try your best to relax. I always wear knee high socks and a tunic so I feel less naked. With your family history it’s pretty important you try to get it done.

Have you tried taking a valium? Also make sure the speculum is warmed, and also warmed gel.

Does anyone love them? Doubt it. I hate them too like the vast majority I imagine. But we are so lucky to be offered them.

Smear tests shouldn't be done before twelve weeks post natal to avoid inaccurate results caused by the effect of pregnancy hormones on cervical cells.
Practice nurse.

Hate smears and always find them uncomfortable. My friend however has had cancer and tbh looking at what she has gone through has made me realise I need to have them. I tend to grin and bear it. I’ll have a little chat with the nurse to take my mind off of it as much as possible and keep reminding myself I won’t need one for a while now

Thanks all there’s some interesting info here!!
I’m in France actually. Standard here to see the gynae but curious to see the nurse suggestion here! I think I’d hate it equally regardless of who did it tbh!
Also interesting about not having one before 12 weeks postpartum! She never said a word re that. I asked if there was any less invasive options and she did actually give me a prescription to do a test for HPV - there is a new type of test available since this year here that you can ‘swab’ yourself at a clinic and if you are HPV positive they send you for a full smear but if you are negative they recall you again in 5 years time. So I’m going to do that.

I think honestly when you’ve just had a baby you just want to keep your knickers on at all costs!! 🤣 I can’t think of anything I’d rather not do, than see a gynae, now.
Thanks for all your replies xx

Could you ask to insert the speculum yourself (it might need to be adjusted/opened afterwards by the gynae)?