How can I make my cervical smear less painful?

8 Tips For Making Your Smear Test More Comfortable

1. Remember that your GP or gynaecologist has seen many vaginas before.
2. Wear warm clothing.
3. Think of something to distract you during the test.
4. Focus on your breathing.
5. Ask for a smaller speculum.
6. Relieve yourself before the test.
7. Communicate with your doctor.

Can I take painkillers before a smear test?

Painkillers are not generally required, but “if you were really worried and think it would help, you could take paracetamol or ibuprofen before,” says Dr Kaye. “If you feel that would help you, then there’s no harm, in doing that.”

Should I shave before a smear test?

Do You Have To Shave Before A Smear Test? No. You do not need to remove any body hair before a smear test. It may seem embarrassing due to societal stigma around body hair, but doctors and nurses are used to seeing different types of vaginas and their only aim is to ensure that yours is healthy.

Should I shower before a smear test?

Be prepared. “On the day of the smear by all means have a shower or a bath, as it will make you feel more confident and less self-conscious. But there is no need to wash more than you normally would, or use anything other than water and unscented soap. Wear clothing that is quick and easy to take off and on.”

Can you get fingered before a Pap smear?

No, you should not have sex right before a Pap smear. Sex can irritate the skin of the cervix, inflame vaginal tissue, and cause discharge that can obscure findings or lead to an abnormal test result.

How can I make my speculum exam less painful?

Smear test top tips: How to make cervical screening more…

1. Time your appointment with your period.
2. Wear comfortable clothes.
3. Ask for a woman to do the test.
4. Ask for a smaller speculum.
5. Put the speculum in yourself.
6. Ask to change position.
7. Don’t use lubricant.
8. Use painkillers if necessary.

Can I be sedated for a smear test?

The short answer to this question is, yes, you can be sedated to get a pelvic exam and Pap smear. This is not common practice however, and usually only done when there is suspected clinical concern and a routine exam is not possible.

Is it normal to be in pain after a Pap smear?

While Pap smears typically do not cause complications, it is possible to have temporary discomfort or bleeding after this test. Most women do not experience pain after a Pap smear. In certain cases, however, you may feel slight sensations of pelvic discomfort, pressure or pain while your doctor removes cervical cells.

Is a smear test painful?

Your pap smear test shouldn’t be painful. However, for a number of reason a lot of women do appear to find them so. It’s important that if you find you are experiencing any pain during your smear that you let your doctor or practice nurse know.

What causes Pap smears to be painful?

One in five estimated to have tilted uterus, also known as a retroverted or tipped Means the uterus, or womb, is tipped backwards, pointing towards lower back It can make the smear test painful and even traumatic, not just embarassing

Is a Pap smear test supposed to hurt or bleed?

A Pap test causes little to no discomfort for most women. It can cause some discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps. You may also feel some pressure during the exam. You may bleed a little bit after the test. The Pap test is a screening test for cervical cancer.