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Unsuccessful smear test

vonnyk10
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Hi. I'm 57 and have just been for my routine smear test and boy was it painful. Up to now all my smear tests have been ok and have come back clear.  This time I had to ask the nurse to stop. I have now been given a prescription for oestrogen cream to use for a month and then re-book for another routine test. Is this normal to be prescribed this?  I was not told to alter position, all the nurse said was relax.  She tried twice then stopped. I got home to find that she had made me bleed quite bad. To be honest I don't want to go back for another now. Anyone else experienced this? 

  • Welcome to the forum Vonnyk although I'm sorry about what happened at your screening.

    I'm sure some of our members who have been in this position will share their advice and experiences with you soon but I hope this information I've found on Jo's cervical cancer trust will help make your next experience a much better one.

    Do feel free to talk things through with our nurses on 0808 800 4040 as well. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and will do all they can to help.

    I know it can be off-putting when things like this happen but I really do hope you're able to go through with your next screening.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi all, I'm new to this site and thread!

    I had a smear test 6 months ago and it was extremely painful. The painful part was when the nurse opened the speculum inside of me and kinda of moved it around (assuming to find my cervix). I'm 32 and lesbian, so never had sex with a man, or used sexed toys, so I'm not sure if this is why it was more painful. I had to go again for a test today and it was unsuccessful due to the pain I was expericing during it. The nurse tried 3 different sized length speculums, but none worked. She advised me to come back in 3 weeks and the doctor can try. This has made me more nervous as my brain is going to the thoughts of "the doctor will just hurt me until he/she gets it". The nurse said I have a very, very tilted cervix (almost seeing the back). I'm anxious again now for my next apt in a matter of weeks. Just feel like crying as I was looking forward to it being over today. 

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