Probably been posted before, but I'll share my experience. 

Had 3 attempts at a cervical screening. Found them to be very painful. The smallest speculum was used the last 2 times as they didn't have a small one the first time. After just (and I mean just) about being able to take the insertion, the opening of the speculum is too much.

I don't doubt that the actual sample taken is more or less painless, but the speculum itself is the problem. Anyone have any advice? The nurse said because I am a virgin, the chance of anything is low, but I really want a successful smear because low risk doesn't mean no risk. I hate that type of rhetoric.

Sorry for the lengthy post. Not sure where I should post it.