Smear test questions - nervous

[BeRoseHare]

Hi there everyone,

I thought I’d come on here as I don’t really have anyone to talk to about this and could do with some advise please !

Im 24 coming up to 25 and haven’t been invited for a smear yet but know I will be in the next few months. I’ve been doing some research and found that you are asked some sexual health questions before the smear.

I was sexually assaulted a few years ago and I’m pretty sure that I was assaulted when I was a child too. I didn’t know if I have to disclose this for a smear test in case they need to know about increased hpv risk?

I’m in a relationship now. And my std tests are all clear. I’ve also had my hpv vaccine too.

I’m pretty worried that my cells will show up bad because of the sexual assaults and I’m freaking out a bit. Trying to stay calm.

but yes sorry for rambling thank you x

Hey, it’s unlikely they’ll ask in your history (I have yearly smears) they’ll likely just do the job, and send you on your way. Even if you do have any abnormal cells, you’ll be invited for a colposcopy and whip them right off for you there and then.

please don’t worry x

They will ask whether you are or have ever been sexually active or have ever had a speculum to try and prepare for the examination. They will ask when your last period was and whether you are using contraception because it can affect the results.
It is a good idea to get it done.

This is reassuring thanks so much xx

When I went for my first smear (at 21, in Wales) the nurse told me "Think of it like this. Either the test comes back clear and you can go away for 3 years and not worry about it. Or the test finds something and we catch it and deal with it. Win win situation." Once you've had a few it gets less stressful. Wear a big skirt that you can hike up, like back, shut your eyes, relax as much as possible, and it's over very very quickly. If you've had the HPV vaccine you'll likely test negative and be fine. I just missed out on one by being a few years too old.

I’ve never been asked my sexual history. Just when my last period was and if I’ve had any irregular bleeding. Then you hop up on the bed, knees out to the side and then it’s over with very quickly. You will be absolutely fine!