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Pap smear and perimenopause

Lavender26
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Hi im booked in for smear test this week. Im perimenopausal, I explained this to GP receptionist that periods all over the place . Booking appointment is difficult nurse works 3 days a week I work long hrs.

Periods are closer together and the window to do smear is a few weeks for me.  So I've booked this  test but I estimate could be two days before period is due. I want to cancel because I dont want a false negative result or unclear/abnormal result, which online it said could be. 

If I cancel im still unable to get another appointment because it has to be around 4 to 5 weeks before appointment available and im still guessing that im able to have one. Im in tears worried every day. I have abnormal tests many yrs before, I need test but cant seem to get when I need one. Can't get appointment with GP to discuss. Im so stuck and scared. No walking centre near me. I dont know what to do, not sleeping.

  • Hello Lavender and thanks for your post,

    I can understand that it is tricky when you have have irregular periods and are unsure when it is likely to start. It is best to attend the appointment so the nurse or doctor who are doing the pap test person can assess whether they can take the sample. Let them know about your concerns. If they feel that your period is not too heavy they may feel that it will be fine to take the test.

    If you would like to talk this through with one of the helpline nurses then you are welcome to give us a ring.

    The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Catherine

    Thank you I attended appointment unfortunately nurse was uninterested and condescending, when I asked her questions.

    The smear was excruciating, ive had many and this was by far the worst. Im never returning. The brush was full of blood and I was bleeding. There was so much blood I told her not to send it in, never spoke to me during smear test and I was squirming. 

    She booked me in again 3 weeks. Clearly it should be 12. Im not going back ever. 24 hrs and im still in pain.  I've had 2 kids no pain relief for either. Sorry for the vent but im so upset. X 

  • in reply to Lavender26

    Hi there Lavender

    I am so sorry to hear about your experience during the taking of your cervical screening sample, this sounds very traumatic for you.

    It is really important that you speak with someone at the surgery about this. You could either ask to speak to a different nurse or a female doctor to talk through this appointment and the pain and discomfort you felt at the time. There are things that can be done to make cervical screening more bearable such as using a smaller speculum, changing your position slightly and using lubricants so do ask about this.

    You are correct in saying a cervical screening isn't usually repeated for a further 3 months once the cells have had chance to regrow however if you are having some unusual symptoms these probably need to be looked into sooner.

    I appreciate what a distressing time this was for you and it is understandable to not want to go back but these types of test are so important. As I say try if you can to speak to a different health professional about this who can put a plan in place that you are happy with and can restore your trust.

    Do get back if needed or give us a call on 0808 800 4040 if you prefer, we can talk things through with you weekdays 9-5.

    Take care

    Naomi

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