Hi, I'm 20 years old and I recently saw an ad on tv saying that if you are over 18 or have ever had sex then you should have a pap smear test every 2 years or so. I've never had one before and cancer is common in my family so I'm kind of worried and think maybe I should get one. I know I should ask a doctor about this but I'm too embarrassed. Are they painful? What are your thoughts on this? Thanks
2007-03-01 00:24:47 · 9 answers · asked by Jenny R 1 in Health ➔ Women's Health
You should absolutely be having pap smears done! There are many female gynecologists if that makes you feel more comfortable. They are professional and understand that you may be nervous. If you let yourself stay embarassed and not get checked, it could put your life at risk. The links that I'm giving you are great information about pap smears and pelvic exams. The last one also has a clinic finder that can direct you to some very good gynecologists. If you are nervous, be sure to tell them that at your appointment. They will help you to be calm and relax.
All of my pap smears and pelvic exams have been quick and rather non-eventful. I don't think they hurt at all. You will be hurt more if you end up with a problem when it could've been caught early.
2007-03-01 00:34:06 · answer #1 · answered by Heather K 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't worry about it .most women have there first pap at around 18 and if your family has a history of cancer then you should definitely get your self checked out. By doing this your protecting your self. When you catch cancer early you give your self the power to fight it. Fear can cripple people .Knowledge is Power. just because your getting a pap does not mean the test will come out positive and if it did ............Believe me finding out early is better then finding out later. Good luck sweet heart and do not be afraid.
2007-03-01 00:36:56 · answer #2 · answered by HELLO 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Getting a PAP test is important, as well as other routine physical tests. It is not painful. In fact, the less nervous you are the less discomfort you'll have because your muscles won't contract and it is easier to get the specimen. Also, most of the time the doctor talks to you and keeps you occupied so that you don't think about it. Don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about anything- I'm sure he/she has heard just about everything! Good Luck.
2007-03-01 00:33:33 · answer #3 · answered by Dragica 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes! Pap smears are very important and they are not painful. Find a doctor your comfortable with and get one soon!
2007-03-01 00:38:01 · answer #4 · answered by MISTY 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should differently have a test done soon. I do not find them to be painful but they can be uncomfortable. It all depends on your body and the doctor. Just find an OB/GYN that you like and stick to getting tested. The doctor will tell you how often it should be done.
2007-03-01 00:34:52 · answer #5 · answered by desiree c 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
smears are nothing. you should get one once a year thats why we usually refer to them as "annuals". they dont hurt at all. he usually talks to you all the way through it and it last about 3 minutes. your smear results will come in later on. definately tell your doc cancer runs in your family so he will know exactly what to look for. its no sweat. just go in there and spread em :)
2007-03-01 01:56:55 · answer #6 · answered by ♪♪Holly♪♪ 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Oh my, your mom is misguided, you may desire to get them each and every year, no remember if youre sexually energetic or no longer. you may desire to get any of the cancers or perhaps infections. No Dr provides you with delivery administration without an examination. See a woman Dr if choose be, they are going to do a breast examination additionally, at your first appt ask the Dr to instruct you the thank you to do a breast examination. Dont be afraid take somebody with you at first, maximum Dr inspire mothers to return, yet youre 21 its your determination (if youre under your mothers coverage they could require a signature to invoice the coverage) additionally the Dr will see you first and talk with you in the previous the examination. good success
2016-09-30 01:28:12 · answer #7 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I use to have pap smear every year.
It's not painful at all. Just relax. Go for it
2007-03-01 00:55:25 · answer #8 · answered by Meemee 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your actually supposed to have them annually after you started your first period. If there is history of cancer in your family, I suggest that you make an appt asap, and try to get that done every year because it will help spot any ealy signs of canser and they will be more capable of treating it. Don't wait any longer.
2007-03-01 03:12:11 · answer #9 · answered by SuNDeViL 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋