I'm not sexually active, I haven't had sex for over 20 years , so do I need to go for a smear test as the last time I did the nurse couldn't do it, it was painful and very embarrassing.
It is difficult for us to say whether you should or shouldn't go for your smears, but I think it is worth discussing with your practice nurse so that you feel you are making an informed decision about stopping screening.
If you are someone who has never had a problem with your smear results (abnormal cells or HPV), it may be that yourrisk of cervical canceris low, and therefore outweighs the mental as well as physical discomfort you experience.
I am afraid this is an individual decision to make, but I hope you can get the information you need.
You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9 am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.
It is difficult for us to say whether you should or shouldn't go for your smears, but I think it is worth discussing with your practice nurse so that you feel you are making an informed decision about stopping screening.
If you are someone who has never had a problem with your smear results (abnormal cells or HPV), it may be that yourrisk of cervical canceris low, and therefore outweighs the mental as well as physical discomfort you experience.
I am afraid this is an individual decision to make, but I hope you can get the information you need.
You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9 am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.
