What to expect at a pap smear test for first-timers

Posted on September 23rd, 2008 in Health, Wellbeing

If you have never done a pap smear test before, you are probably nervous and anxious about having it done for the first time. Who can blame you, it is a rather invasive test after all. Here’s some sharing of information and tips for you, in the hope that you will be better prepared mentally and emotionally when you finally step into the doctor’s office.

Some background information

A pap smear test is usually best done 2 weeks after the start day of menstruation. This period is when samples of the cervical cell obtained are clearest and cleanest. About 2 days before the test, you should avoid activities that may cause irritation to the cervix, such as sexual intercourse, using a tampon, going for a swim or even having a bath in a bathtub.

Plan beforehand

Do your research by asking friends and family who have done the tests about which doctors they recommend. Do not be shy, ask them about their experience, whether it hurt them, what they felt during the examination and how the entire experience went along. The more you know, the less nervous you will be.

You need to ask yourself whether you will prefer to be tended to by a male or female gynae. When I asked around, I was generally told that many women felt that men doctors seemed gentler than female doctors when handling the examininations. Of course these feedback are only personal opinions. If you do not feel comfortable with a male doctor, by all means go with a lady no matter how many great recommendations you hear of a particular male doctor. The bottom line is that you must feel comfortable with the person performing the test on you. On the other hand, I would also like to add that all doctors are professionals in their fields and that they do not judge us the way we think.

When you have finally selected the doctor you want to consult with, make your appointment in advance. Be sure to schedule it during a time when you are free and clear from your monthly period. You may also want to schedule for it to be the first thing in the morning that you do. That way, you are fresh and ready for the examination, plus you don’t need to get through the day with anxiety for your doctor’s appointment.

Stay calm

At the start of the pap smear examination, your doctor may ask you a series of questions to get an understanding of your background. Answer them honestly as these are your medical records and are definitely kept confidential.

Some of the questions you can expect are as follows:

1) your age

2) whether you are sexually active

3) whether you are pregnant

4) your last period

5) whether you are on any hormone pills (birth control pills included)

6) any history of cervical cancer in your family

During the test, your doctor will remind you to relax yourself. It is only through a relax state that the test can be easily done. Despite whatever anxiousness you may feel, do try to relax and know that the test will be over in just a matter of minutes. It’s actually very quick and painless if you could just relax and follow the instructions of the doctor. You do not need to do anything other than to relax your mind and more importantly, your body.

Your doctor will also inform you about what sensations you can expect to feel during the test. It is normally just a cold sensation as the doctor inserts an instrument to widen the cervix and perhaps some discomfort to some. It usually is not a painful examination.

I’m sure you have heard a fair share of stories that pap smear hurts. According to medical experts, when done correctly and properly, a pap smear does not hurt. Small discomforts, yes, but not any excruciating pain. Just remember and focus to be relaxed throughout the entire test and you will do just fine. Remember that there is no reason for the doctor to be rough when you are thoroughly relaxed and cooperative during the test.

Pap smear is a highly recommended annual test for women. It is by far the most successful screening method for cervical cancer. Although it is not 100% accurate, it is of about 95% accuracy. In conjuction with next month being Pink October month, Every Woman’s Blog strongly advocates its women readers to do their annual check.

Pantai Medical Centre is doing a promotion next month for lady’s screening test. Read the post to find out more. Let’s stay healthy for our loved ones.

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