Smear

I had an unsuccessful smear test last year, we tried a few times but become unbearable the more tried, I was fully relaxed at first as I didn't expect it to hurt with being my first one so not being relaxed I didn't see was the issue as I was before I felt pain, I was told I am too tense there and it was too hard to do despite I tried through the pain a few times and still couldn't do it, since I have been scared and upset and anxious and it's made me never want to try again, I have been offered diazpan but I know that's not enough as it really hurt no matter how relaxed I could be, wondering if being put out is an option? As I'm just too anxious about it all now and I know I'll only be told again it can't be done.

  • Hi and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry the attempt at a smear test was so hard for you - it can be for many people ,so please don't think it's just you.

    Taking a diazepam can actually be very helpful so don't dismiss it completely, as although it may be uncomfortable, it will lessen the pain and at least allow a speculum. Sometimes, taking the smear from another angle, that is, you lying on your side and the smear taken from behind you, can make it a lot easier for you, as well as the nurse using a smaller speculum with plenty of lubricant. Some people bring in earphones to try and distract them .

    I hope that in a few months you may want to try again , possibly with someone else who you won't associate with the first attempt. Doctors won't want to send you for a general anaesthetic unless it's absolutely necessary, so you may find this isn't possible.

    Sometimes, people will be sent to a colposcopy clinic to have the smear where there is gas and air and they see many people who have been unable to have a smear in the GP surgery.

    I hope things work out better for you if you decide to have another attempt - it may be helpful to have a chat with the GP or nurse first .

    All the best

    Wanda