Medical matter

[starship255]

Anyone had a smear test? Need every detail I'm so scared!

[coemgen]

Hi starship225 I've had smear tests done before. There really isn't anything to be scared of, although admittedly it isn't something one looks forward to. Basically you'll need to lay on your back and with your knees up and together, then the nurse will tell you to let your legs flop down.The important thing is to relax or it will be uncomfortable. I always take deep breaths to relax. The nurse will then insert a metal device inside you, it may feel a bit cold, but it shouldn't hurt.This device enables the nurse to look at your cervix and she will adjust it so she can "open you up a little". Using a spatula she will then gently srape some cells from your cervix to send away to be examined. The whole procedure shouldn't take any longer than 10 minutes at the most. You'll need to have one done every 3-5 years. I know it's not pleasant but it could just save your life. Hope I've told you every thing you need to know.

[ravenhair]

You have absolutely nothing to be scared about. At worst, it's very mildly unpleasant - if the nurse uses a cold speculum, for example :-). It is absolutely essential that you get a smear done regularly, as cervical cancer is extremely curable if caught in time.

[vittoria]

I agree with all of the above; the discomfort if any, is usually a slight cramp in your lower belly; something unpleasant did happen to me once though: the nurse was warming the speculum under warm water and it got too hot... well, no damage was done.

[ipek]

I agree with all these Gals, but the most important advice is as coemgen said - try to relax. I know it's not easy if it's your first time, but there is absolutely nothing to be scared of and the nurse is so used to doing this procedure, there is nothing to be embarrassed about either.
I've had them regularly all my life and at one point it caught a problem in good time to get sucessful treatment.
Believe me, this is less scary than going to the dentist! Good luck.