papsmere????

Question

uhhm.. im about to get my first papsmere test... andd... im kinda nervous.
any advice/info that i need to know...?

Answer 1

Just relax. Don't clench up when the doc is doing the exam. It's usually very quick, you'll be out before you know it.

Answer 2

The papsmear involves a special brush used to take cells from the cervix that then gets sent off to a lab for analysis. They do this at the same time as they do a pelvic exam. There may be a bit of spotting for a couple of days after the test and this is normal. The best advice I can give is like the others to relax because being nervous can make it harder for the dr to do the exams.

Your results should come back in about a week or two.

Answer 3

It's not a big deal. During your pelvic, the doctor takes (basically) a really long Q-tip to get some cells on it for testing. Because they changed the requirements a couple years ago, the sample now has to come from above your cervix, so you may have some light spotting after.

Just remember, you shouldn't have sex or insert anything (tampons, etc) 72 hours or so before the test, as it can cause a false positive. Don't be nervous, it's really not a big deal. And let the doctor know if the speculum (the metal thingy they'll insert first) hurts or anything - there are a couple different sizes, so they should be able to adjust down if you need them to.

And remember to pee before you get examined - you'll be a lot more comfortable during the exam if you're not focused on trying not to pee on the doctor's head (not that you'll be comfortable to begin with...but you know what I mean)

Answer 4

Try to relax as much as possible. Do a search for "pap smear" on google to come up with websites that will explain the procedure to you. Plannedparenthood.org also describes the whole thing in detail.
Make sure you don't engage in sexual activity before the exam, and if you start your period, reschedule the exam for a time when you are not on your period. When you get to the doctor's office, ask him/her to explain everything as he goes along,so you know what to expect. I hear mixed results about pap smears-some women say it hurts, others say it is fine. If you are extremely nervous, talk to your doctor about medication options to relax you prior to your appointment. Finally, take a shower before your appointment. I know it sounds obvious, but there is nothing a doctor hates more than looking at someone that is not clean down there.
Remember, a pap smear tests for HPV ( a sexually transmitted disease) and cancerous changes. The test can certainly be worth it.

Answer 5

It's not as terrible as it's made out to be...Mostly just awkward because you've got your legs spread open and a doc and nurse asst. are peering into your vag. but other than that it's not painful at all and only takes about 3 to 5 min. Don't try and douche or anything like that right before your test because it could give inaccurate results once they're sent to the lab.

First time I had one I thought the doc was gonna think it "looked" weird, like he could tell something was wrong just by looking at it..lol...it's just nervousness.

You'll be fine. The gyno's treat it very professionally so you shouldn't be embarrassed or anything like that. I just always make sure I shower right before because I don't want to be paranoid about odors or anything like that. But don't put any soaps, cleansers or tampons in atleast a few days beforehand.

Answer 6

It's natural to be nervous, let's face it, it isn't the most enjoyable thing in the world to do. But unfortunately, we all have to do this to stay healthy. Just remember that it will be over in no time, and if you have a good gyn, they will put you at ease. Relax. If possible, take a friend or your mom with you to talk with, it will take your mind off of the test. Good Luck!!

Answer 7

Pap smear. Well, the best thing to do is REALLY relax. Take deep breaths and close your eyes. It may be a little uncomfortable, but when you jump around and and stuff it makes it worse. So be still and let them do their job and it will be over in no time. Good Luck!

Answer 8

Relax, always be honest with the doctor, try to think pleasant thoughts. Nobody (well, some might) likes to have this done. The first time is rough, especially if you are a virgin. Just don't be nervous. It isn't that bad, and it's over with quickly.

Answer 9

Im sure you hear horror stories, I know i did. I went in that office so scared of what was going to happen, only to find out that it really isnt that bad. Sure it is a little uncomfortable, but relax and it will be done in a minute or less. And it does not hurt much, I was expecting it to be painful, but it wasnt.....dont be scared/nervous, its not as bad as is seems!

Answer 10

Its really not that bad.. a little bit of discomfort for piece of mind that they can detect cancer early. Everyone says relax and that part is true. If you are nervous just ask your doctor about it. And if you feel weird about a male doctor doing it (if you don't have a female) you can request a nurse present..