Hello, I am in my seventies and have been celibate since my thirties.  I have delayed getting

a smear test as the last few were very painful. I explained my position to nurse or doctor

giving the test and did not receive much reassurance, other than, 'Oh it's unusual to feel

such pain and, after all, you are an older woman.'  I'm writing this as am speaking with a

GP tomorrow about my fears.  I do, though, want the test done.  Gill