How do I get over my fear of smear tests?

If you’re especially worried, it’s a good idea to bring a relative or friend with you for support, or even to book a double appointment so you’ve got more time to discuss your fears with the nurse and recover your poise after the test.

Why are people scared of smear test?

One of the reasons some people struggle with cervical screening is because of the speculum used to take the test and a general fear of penetration. And it may not be just fear that gets in the way of a smear test. Vaginismus is a condition where the fear plays out in the sufferer’s body.

Is it normal to be scared of a pap smear?

A pap smear can be mildly uncomfortable for some women and there may be some spotting afterwards. For the vast majority of women it is about as conversation-worthy as a sneeze that just won’t come and is never spoken about. Perhaps this is why the very few negative stories are exaggerated and amplified so much.

Why do I have anxiety about a smear test?

We speak to Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust about ways to combat your anxiety. Do you have the fear? From concerns that cervical screening (also known as a smear test) might be painful to body embarrassment, a worryingly high number of young women don’t attend their cervical screening appointment because of smear fear.

How to overcome the fear of the smear test?

Music recommends the following ways to beat your smear test fear and attend your appointment. 1. Bring a friend or relative Don’t want to go alone? You can always take a friend. ‘If a woman is feeling anxious beforehand, they can ask a member of their family or a friend to accompany them,’ says Music.

Why do some women not go to the smear test?

From concerns that cervical screening (also known as a smear test) might be painful to body embarrassment, a worryingly high number of young women don’t attend their cervical screening appointment because of smear fear. But here’s the important part: attending your cervical screening could save your life.

What to do if you find the smear test painful?

‘If you find the test painful, it’s important to let the nurse know,’ says Music. ‘The nurse could apply some more lube to the speculum or in fact they can ask for a smaller sized speculum, which many women don’t know they can do.