second colposcopy - any tips on staying calm?

Hello everyone and I hope you are all keeping safe and well. 

I am 25, (26 in December).

i went for my first ever smear last June I believe, when I had my results it said they had found severe dyskariosis, in which I had a follow up appointment for a colposcopist at hospital -

when I arrived, they took around 3 biopsies, the nurses and student nurses were amazing and tried to keep me calm. However, I suffered a panic attack whilst on the chair during the examination as if gotten myself into a panic. (Even though the student was trying to use distraction mechanisms to help haha). 

the colposcopist then said to me that she thinks it would be best for me to be out under general anaesthetic so that they could remove the abnormal cells - which I went ahead with in October and had them removed - didn't feel any pain and was there for day surgery and left. 

had my follow up smear the end of February at my doctors this year - had the results back from that stating they had found hpv in the test results but no abnormal cell change - and that I am to be refferrred to colposcopy again. 

this has now caused me great anxiety due to how badly I handled the last one. Has anyone got any advice/tips/guidance on how I can remain calm for this procedure? 30th September is when I am due to go and I am in such a panic :( any help or experience would be so appreciated. Thank you so much. 

  • Hello Gracer789

    I'm sorry to hear that you've been asked to attend the hospital for another colposcopy. It's understandable that you're feeling concerned after your last procedure. 

    I'd suggest in the first instance speaking to your GP who may be able to offer some advice and support. You could also contact the coloposcopy secretary at the hospital and explain about your previous appointment and that you're worried about this upcoming appointment. They may be able to speak to the Consultant to see what can be put in place. 

    Please don't spend the next few weeks worrying. I'm sure that if you speak with your GP or the hospital that they will be able to make sure that things go as smoothly as possible for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator