I am having a follow up colposcopy appointment this week, my last one was 6 months ago and I found it very difficult. I find smear tests and colposcopies very invasive and quite uncomfortable, my first ever smear was extremely uncomfortable and painful and it’s really made them difficult for me. I have quite a high tolerance for pain and don’t usually get upset or bothered by any type of medical procedure but it’s more the fact that someone is staring at my vagina and poking around in it that just sends me into flight or fight mode, I get really panicky and shaky and obviously this makes it more uncomfortable than it might be if I were more relaxed about the situation. My husband came with me last time but he can’t this week. I’m absolutely dreading it.
For my smears, the nurse usually asks me to lie on my side but when I went for my colposcopy last time I had to lie back in a seat with my feet in stirrups which is what I think find the most upsetting and invasive.
Does anyone have any tips for making the procedure a bit more comfortable? Would it help if I had some pain relief beforehand? Short of having some gas and air (or a large wine!) I’m grateful for any advice!