why does my belly button area hurt after my pap smear?

Question

my doctor was not gentle...it was my first pap...iam married and in my early 20's..only one partner... is it normal?

Answer 1

I found out from my doctor that yes there can be some pain after the pap smear is done because of the irritation of the brush being used to take the cells. It is normal for some women to go thru this.

For the next time you can let this doctor know not to be so rough. If she still won't listen then I would recommend finding another doctor who is more gentle with you.

But please let the doctor know about the pain in your tummy so that it can be recorded on your medical record as a notation for the future.

Answer 2

I bet it's not from the pap smear itself, but from the speculum. The way the bills hold you open can make you kind of sore.

There's no excuse for a doctor not being gentle, though. You should complain. You can also ask for a smaller size or even a soft inflatable speculum:

http://www.allheart.com/drgsoftspec.html