How painful is first Pap smear?

You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort when the speculum is put in and opened. Usually a small spatula or tiny brush is used to gently collect cells from the cervix for the Pap test. You may feel a light scratching when they take the cells, or you may feel nothing at all.

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Does a Pap smear hurt the first time?

Yes, it may feel uncomfortable, but the test doesn't hurt when performed properly. That said, you may feel pressure in your abdomen or vagina when the speculum opens the vagina. You may also feel mild discomfort in the form of a pinching sensation when cells are being removed with the brush or spatula.

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What does your first Pap smear feel like?

You can expect mild sensations.

The test may be mildly uncomfortable. You may feel pressure in your abdomen or vagina that you may not have experienced before. However, it should never hurt. During this time, it's important to breathe and stay relaxed so the process is more comfortable.

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Is it normal for a Pap smear to be extremely painful?

Pain during a smear test

For most people, a smear test shouldn't be painful, but it's normal to find it a bit uncomfortable. Usually the most uncomfortable bit is when the speculum is opened. Having your cervix brushed to remove cells can feel a bit strange, but shouldn't hurt.

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How can I make my first Pap smear less painful?

Ob/Gyns Share 11 Ways to Make a Pap Smear Easier on You and Your Vagina
  1. Make sure you understand what a Pap smear is and entails. ...
  2. Try to pee before your Pap smear. ...
  3. Request the smallest, narrowest speculum that can work for your body. ...
  4. Request a plastic speculum. ...
  5. Ask your ob/gyn to warm up the speculum.

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Does getting a Pap Smear hurt? - Dr. Mugdha Joshi

15 related questions found

What if I'm scared to get a pap smear?

“If you are really concerned or anxious about any part of the test, it's advisable to speak with the doctor or nurse in advance, as they can help make the test more comfortable for you and talk through any of your concerns,” Dr. Ameen also suggested.

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Do Pap smears hurt more as you get older?

Answer. No, it may be due to your age, especially after the menopause; sometimes the vaginal entrance becomes a bit narrower or drier with less secretions. It may be that your pelvic floor muscles were not as relaxed. Also, it could be the size and brand of the speculum used.

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How do I relax for a smear test?

You may find it helpful to:
  1. plan your journey.
  2. bring something that is comforting or helps you relax, for example a music player or magazine.
  3. wear a skirt or dress as you can keep these on during the test.
  4. make plans for after your appointment, for example treating yourself to something nice and relaxing.

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How long does it take to heal after a Pap smear?

Share on Pinterest Light bleeding, or spotting, is common after a Pap smear. During a Pap smear, a healthcare professional takes a small sample of cervical cells to screen for cervical cancer. Collecting cells from the cervix can cause light bleeding or spotting that may last for 1–2 days.

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Should I shower before a Pap smear?

Preparing for a Pap Smear Test

You can shower, but don't tub bathe for 24 hours before the test. Refrain from having intercourse for at least two days before the test.

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What should you not do before a Pap smear?

Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It's best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.

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What not to do before a smear test?

It is recommended that you avoid sex for 24 hours before you have your smear test. Sex can cause the cells that line with your cervix, which are collected during your smear test, to become irritated and inflamed. This can interfere with your test results.

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What should I expect at my first Pap smear?

What can I expect at my first Pap smear? This quick exam takes place at our office. During the procedure, you rest on an exam table with your heels in supports called stirrups. Your provider uses a special tool called a speculum to expand your vagina so they can swab your cervix to collect cells for analysis.

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Why does it hurt so bad when they check my cervix?

Cervical exams can be painful or uncomfortable, especially for people who have a history of trauma or pelvic floor pain or dysfunction. Many people find that their genital areas are more sensitive late in pregnancy.

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Can a Pap smear be done without a speculum?

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.

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Can you get anesthesia for a Pap smear?

The short answer to this question is, yes, you can be sedated to get a pelvic exam and Pap smear.

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How do you stay calm during a Pap smear?

8 Tips For Making Your Smear Test More Comfortable
  1. Remember that your GP or gynaecologist has seen many vaginas before. ...
  2. Wear warm clothing. ...
  3. Think of something to distract you during the test. ...
  4. Focus on your breathing. ...
  5. Ask for a smaller speculum. ...
  6. Relieve yourself before the test. ...
  7. Communicate with your doctor.

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Is it normal to feel bad after a Pap smear?

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.

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How do I prepare for my first Pap smear?

If it's unavoidable, that's okay—however, a period-free day is best, as it makes the exam easier for both you and your doctor. Another thing to keep in mind with timing and your pap smear: avoid vaginal intercourse, douching and any vaginally applied medicine for at least two days prior to the exam.

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What is the smallest speculum for Pap smear?

A pediatric speculum is the smallest speculum. It's narrower and shorter than other speculums.

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Can you shower the morning of a Pap smear?

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. Be honest and candid about your sexual health and discuss any sexual practices that may place you at risk.

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What throws off a Pap smear?

What causes an abnormal Pap smear?
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cell changes that are true abnormal Pap smears.
  • Mild infection, irritation from yeast or tampons, or trauma from sexual intercourse also cause cell changes, but these changes often go away on their own or can be easily treated.

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Is it OK to shave before a Pap smear?

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.

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