June 23rd 2024.
For many individuals, cervical screenings can be a daunting and uncomfortable experience. The thought of it alone can bring about feelings of anxiety and discomfort. However, it is an essential procedure that can potentially save lives. The NHS encourages all individuals with a cervix to have their first smear test at the age of 25 and then every three years until they reach 50, and every five years after that. This test is crucial in detecting any abnormal cells that could be an early sign of cervical cancer.
The messaging from the health service regarding the procedure is usually the same - it's quick, it's important, and if you've had penetrative sex before, it should be fine. While these statements may be true for some, they ignore the reality that for many women, a smear test can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. As we observe Cervical Screening Awareness Week, The Agency spoke to two women about their difficult and painful experiences during their smear tests and how they have coped with them.
Clara* recounts her experience with Metro, where she felt ambushed into having a smear test during a routine asthma check-up. The nurse suggested she could have it done quickly and conveniently, as she was due for her first one. Clara, who had never had penetrative sex before, was initially hesitant but was convinced by the nurse to go ahead with the test. Unfortunately, her first experience was excruciatingly painful, and she remembers screaming in discomfort. She even bled, and the nurse had to call in a colleague for assistance. Despite the unpleasant experience, Clara understood the importance of the test and continued to have regular screenings. However, she now feels more prepared and has learned to breathe through the discomfort.
The messaging around smear tests is often centered on the importance of the procedure, but it can be challenging to muster up the courage to go through with it. Clara explains that while we all know it's worth it, it's not easy to pull your pants down and have the test done. She believes that there is more pressure on GPs to ensure that women are not overdue for their smear tests, possibly due to the tragic case of Jade Goody, who passed away from cervical cancer at the age of 27. However, with a long to-do list, getting a smear test done can easily be pushed to the bottom, as it's not the most enjoyable experience.
Cancer charities also offer advice on how to prepare for a smear test. Helen Hyndman, an Ask Eve nurse at The Eve Appeal, suggests asking for a double appointment if you don't want to feel rushed. Additionally, you can ask for a smaller speculum or even insert it yourself. Different positions can also make the test more comfortable, especially for individuals with a tilted cervix. Using a water-based lubricant can also help reduce the pain during the procedure. It's essential to communicate with the nurse or doctor about any previous difficulties you may have had with a smear test, as they can offer support and guidance. Ultimately, you are in control during the test, and if it becomes too painful, you can ask for it to be stopped or even request to be referred to a local gynecology service.
Getting a cervical screening can be a daunting experience for some individuals. You may have heard comments like "it's just a quick pinch" or "it's over before you know it" during the procedure. These are common messages from the NHS, encouraging people with cervixes to get tested for abnormal cells that could be a sign of cervical cancer. However, for many women, the reality is far from painless.
During Cervical Screening Awareness Week, The Agency spoke to two women who had difficult or painful experiences during their smear tests. Clara, now 33, shared her story of feeling ambushed into having a smear test during a routine asthma check-up. Even though she had never had penetrative sex and was unsure if she needed the test, the nurse convinced her to have it done. Unfortunately, Clara's first experience was excruciatingly painful, causing her to scream and bleed.
Despite the discomfort and distress, Clara recognized the importance of regular screenings and continued to get tested. However, she was more prepared for subsequent tests and found that they became easier over the years. She believes that this is due to her being more mentally and physically prepared for the procedure.
Clara also discussed the messaging around smear tests and how it can be difficult for individuals to pluck up the courage to go through with it. She believes that the pressure from the media and the story of Jade Goody, who passed away from cervical cancer at a young age, plays a role in this. However, Clara acknowledges that getting a smear test is necessary and encourages others to prioritize their health.
To make the experience more comfortable, Helen Hyndman, an Ask Eve nurse at The Eve Appeal, suggests several tips. These include asking for a longer appointment if you feel rushed, using a smaller speculum or inserting it yourself, trying different positions, using lubricant, and practicing breathing exercises or listening to music. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of communication with the nurse or doctor and stopping the procedure if it becomes too painful.
In conclusion, while smear tests are an important part of maintaining good health, they can also be uncomfortable and painful for some individuals. It is essential to prioritize your well-being and communicate with healthcare professionals to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
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