The answer is yes, you can have a Cervical Screening Test at any time during your menstrual cycle. However, most women find it more comfortable to schedule their appointment at a time outside of their period when they are not bleeding.
Can you get a Pap smear or pelvic exam on your period? The answer is yes! If you've scheduled an appointment with your gynecologist and you're on your period, there is no need to cancel the appointment. Normal vaginal bleeding should not get in the way of a Pap smear or pelvic exam.
Yes, it's totally okay to get a pelvic exam when you're on your period. But most nurses and doctors would rather do your pelvic exam on a non-period day when you're not bleeding, or at least not bleeding heavily.
If you are getting a Pap test, you can take steps to make sure the test results are accurate. Avoid intercourse, douching, and using vaginal medicines or spermicidal foam for 2 days before the test. If you had sex before the test, go to the appointment as planned and let the doctor know.
Not use vaginal creams, foams, gels, douches or tampons 48 hours (two days) before your Pap smear. These products could cause an abnormal result. Not have sex 48 hours (two days) before your Pap smear. Sex can irritate the skin of the cervix or cause discharge (fluids) that can lead to an abnormal result.
A Pap test can be done during your menstrual period, but it is better to schedule the test at another time.
Cervical irritation
Collecting cells from the cervix can cause light bleeding or spotting that may last for 1–2 days. Bleeding usually happens because the test irritates the cervix rather than because there is anything wrong. For most people, the bleeding stops and does not reoccur.
Be prepared. “On the day of the smear by all means have a shower or a bath, as it will make you feel more confident and less self-conscious. But there is no need to wash more than you normally would, or use anything other than water and unscented soap. Wear clothing that is quick and easy to take off and on.”
There are many different physical and psychological reasons why a smear test might hurt or be very uncomfortable. You'll probably find it difficult if you have a condition like vulvodynia or endometriosis, or if you've been through the menopause and you're experiencing vaginal dryness.
Blood Vessels
The bleeding should stop within a few hours.
Do not use douche, bubble bath, or use vaginal medicine for three days before Pap test. You may shower, but do not tub bathe 24 hours before the Pap test. Inform your clinician about additional medications/conditions that may interfere with an accurate test.
It doesn't take much to prepare for a pap smear. Some women may feel like they need to shave their pubic hair, but it's unnecessary for this test. You should only tackle it if you'll be more comfortable. Your doctor has seen it all, so a little bit of pubic hair won't bother him.
Yes. Most health care providers permit patients to bring a friend or family member into the exam room with them. However, it's a good idea to call ahead and ask your health care provider if this is okay with her or him.
May I keep my socks and/or shoes on during my exam? Yes. Socks and shoes may be left on, but all other clothing items need to be removed for the exam. Why do pap smears and vaginal exams sometimes hurt?
There's no need to panic
When you hear that your Pap smear results were abnormal, you might feel some anxiety. Although worry is a common and normal reaction, it's important to know that your test results merely showed that you have an infection or unusual cells known as dysplasia. None of this means you have cancer.
A pap smear can cause irritation and micro-tears in the vaginal tissue, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. The symptoms of UTI after a pap smear are similar to those of a regular UTI.
Discomfort and bleeding or cramping after a pap smear is normal because this area of our body is so sensitive. After a pap smear or pelvic exam, blood rushes to the cervix and your other reproductive organs. This is why the irritation and bleeding from the cervical scratch or scrape may occur.
Common side effects of pap smears include spotting, cramping, and mild pain or discomfort.
It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks for your healthcare provider to receive your results from the laboratory. It's important to agree on a way of getting your results with your healthcare provider. Find out more about Cervical Screening Test results.
Crying during a pap smear is a relatively common occurrence and nothing to be ashamed of. Pap smears can be uncomfortable or even painful for some women, but there are steps you can take to make the experience more comfortable.
Why does a speculum hurt so much? Pain may be a sign that your muscles are overly tense or that you have a condition that's making the experience painful. To prevent pain, communicate your concerns and relevant health information to your provider. Let them know at any point if you're experiencing pain.
Researchers found 17% more women were screened when they had the option not to use a speculum during the exam. Instead, a doctor or nurse could take a vaginal sample without a speculum. Under-screened and unscreened women have the highest risk of developing cervical cancer.