When having a pap smear, how far does the instrument they use stretch you? Is it the width of 2 fingers? I've never had one done and just want to know what to expect. Thanks.
2007-01-23 04:27:05 · 12 answers · asked by coz_6 1 in Health ➔ Women's Health
I have heard it referred to as the duck bill, don't know what it is called but that is what it looks like. Not going to lie, it is a little uncomfortable but I wouldn't go as far as to say painful. Also, just a quick swipey swipey and it is over with! We all have to go through it, don't sweat it!
2007-01-23 04:32:31 · answer #1 · answered by D Marie 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The instrument that they use is called a speculum. It doesn't stretch the outside or entrance into the vagina. All it does is lift the extra folds in the vaginal canal off of the cervix. If you have a good dr, it shouldn't hurt at all. It does feel strange though and that's normal. It will go faster if you can relax your muscles (you have to be able to see the cervix in order to get a sample.)
Here's how most exams go. First you will get a physical, the typical listen to your heart, lungs and such. You will probably get a breast exam (I'm always more uncomfortable with this than the actually pap, I don't know why.) Then they will do the pap smear and a pelvic exam at the same time.
You should be proud of your self for doing this. You are making a great decision and should hold your head high and relax. You won't need to get another one done for a year if everything is ok!
2007-01-23 04:42:58 · answer #2 · answered by rn4sicbabies 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The instrument opens you up, it shouldn't STRETCH you alot, if it really hurts, let your doc know, but it is an uncomfortable feeling! They do make different sizes and if you've never had an exam before, tell them! They should take their time w/ you and tell you what they're doing and why they're doing it! The PAP smear brush looks just like a small mascara brush, it feels weird, but it's over quickly. Just remember to relax, if you tense up, your muscles down there will clench too and it will make it more painful! Good luck, I know it's nerve wracking, but once you get it over with, you'll feel much better!
2007-01-23 04:40:27 · answer #3 · answered by Carpenter's Daughter 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am not sure in finger width, but it seems about two inches or so. If you are comfortable with your doctor just let him/her know that this is your first pap and you are a little unsure about it. My doctor, who delivered my last child, still will talk me through it and goes slow out of respect. Make sure that your doctor always has a nurse present during all examinations, this is the law, and make sure you listen to your instincts. If you feel that they are acting inappropriate or have done something to offend you, tell someone and report them immediately. I may seem kinda funny about this but it actually happened to my best friend down in FL. She got up the courage and told the hospital and it turned out that he had done it to hundreds of his patients. All of that craziness aside, it is important to have a good relationship with your gynocoligist. This way you will feel comfortable asking important questions about your health and feel good about your body as a woman. Dont worry about the stretching thing either. I have had three children and numerous paps and i am still fine according to my husband :O) Like i said though, ask your doctor to walk you through it and explain the pap. This will help you feel less anxious and more in power of the situation. I am a funny one who wears my socks too...makes me feel less naked. Now thats funny :O)
2007-01-23 04:35:55 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just went trough my first PAP 1 month ago. It felt like a tampon going in, the third largest size, Mini, regular, super, Super plus, It feels like the super. the most uncomfortable part was waiting for the doctor to come in the room. They make you feel like it's something they do all day. LOL ...Anyway nothing to be worried about, relax, lay back, and let them do there thing
2007-01-23 04:54:02 · answer #5 · answered by Crystal Blue 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's just not that big of a deal. It's over with in about one minute and as far as stretching, you won't really be able to feel it at all. I don't understand what the fuss is about - it's just a normal part of an exam.
2007-01-23 04:33:58 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are various sizes in the instrument and the doctor will do a physical examination first then he will be able to tell what size you need. You need to be completely relaxed for it and don't panic if you get some bleeding afterwards it completely normal.
2007-01-23 04:30:32 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yeah I guess about two fingers, just enough for the doc to get a swab in there. It's over really fast.
2007-01-23 04:32:20 · answer #8 · answered by RIVER 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You have no need to think about the instrument, it is not painful, and it is a quick and safe procedure, like a regular exam
2007-01-23 04:30:29 · answer #9 · answered by Vesna G 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It sucks but needs to be done and we all go through it honey. It's a little uncomfortable, but over in a sec!
2007-01-23 04:34:36 · answer #10 · answered by Ms Z 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋