How can I make a Pap smear less painful?

Why was my Pap smear so painful?

When Pap smears are uncomfortable, it’s often because there’s a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region. Urinating beforehand can relieve some of this pressure. In some cases, your doctor might request a urine sample, so be sure to ask if it’s OK to use the restroom beforehand.

How can I reduce the pain of a Pap smear?

A simple change in positioning might also make a pap smear less painful. Some women tolerate the procedure better by lying on their sides or they place their hands underneath their rears and press down. Just like sex, different positions can decrease any discomfort you feel in your vagina.

What should you not do before a Pap smear?

Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It’s best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.

Can you be sedated for a Pap smear?

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.

Do smear tests hurt if your a virgin?

The cervical screening procedure won’t damage your hymen or affect your virginity in any way, although it may be a little more uncomfortable for those who haven’t had sex before.

How long do Pap smears take?

Pap Smear Procedure

The test is done in your doctor’s office or clinic. It takes about 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll lie on a table with your feet placed firmly in stirrups. You’ll spread your legs, and your doctor will insert a metal or plastic tool (speculum) into your vagina.

How long after a Pap smear should I abstain?

Spotting may last up to two days, but the bleeding will become lighter. Avoid sex and don’t use a tampon in the two to three days following a Pap smear if you’re experiencing bleeding. The additional pressure may cause bleeding to start again or become heavier.

How do you freshen before a Pap smear?

You Don’t Need to Shower Right Before Your Appointment

Many women worry about any unpleasant smells, discharge, or sweat before an appointment. Taking a bath or shower the night before is fine. However, if you are concerned, wear a panty liner and change it to stay fresh before your appointment.

What do you wear to a Pap smear?

Because you will need to remove all clothing from the waist down for a Pap smear, you might consider wearing a dress or skirt so that all you have to take off is your underwear and shoes, but this is purely a personal preference. It may be just as easy for you to slip out of a pair of jeans, slacks, or sweatpants.

What things can a Pap smear detect?

A Pap smear is a way to detect abnormal cervical cells before they become cancer. Sometimes the cells collected from a Pap smear are also checked for HPV, a virus that can cause cell changes that may lead to cancer. Pap smears, along with HPV testing, are considered cervical cancer screening tests.

Does a pap smear hurt?

Some women might need to get tested more often, though. So ask your doctor. The Pap smear shouldn’t hurt, but it might be uncomfortable. The good news is, it’s over quickly.

How do I relax my pelvic exam muscles?

Practice slow, deep breathing. Try to relax your shoulders, your stomach muscles and the muscles between your legs. Your provider should already be describing each step of the exam, but you can ask for more explanation or for them to go more slowly.

Is smear test painful?

Everyone’s experience of a smear test is different, with the majority of women reporting no pain or mild discomfort. However, some women do find that the test is painful and there are many psychological factors that come into play and make the situation worse.