My Smear Test Experience

It’s not something I thought I’d ever share on my blog. I didn’t really think I’d ever need to. But with us being at record lows for people having their smear test I thought more awareness on its importance couldn’t harm. Plus, it might help some people to realise it’s not as scary as it may seem.

I’m Lauren, and I’ve had 3 smear tests in my 27 years. I was lucky enough (I say it’s lucky) to have enrolled at a Welsh university. In Wales the age for smear tests to begin is at 20. I signed up for the local doctors and in February 2011, I received a letter to book in my first smear. Did I feel anxious? Of course! I was going to be having prodding and poking in an area that wasn’t exposed to anyone. But I knew it was important to go.

I struggle to remember my first smear test. It was 8 years ago, so I’ve slept a fair few times since then! The nurse performing this ran through how the test is down and showed the instruments used (by the way, they have done this with the two subsequent visits as well). They asked if I wanted anyone in the room, and explained it would only take a few minutes.

I’m not going to lie the speculum is a little scary looking. Without a picture to hand, the only way I can describe it is by saying it looks like bird’s beak but rounder, and less sharp. It’s used to get a clear access to the cervix so the brush can take a sample of cells. It does feel a little uncomfortable, and the plastic does make it feel cold.

Heads up, you do have to remove your trousers (if wearing) and underwear for the test to go ahead. It may seem clear to some that this would happen, but it’s always best to be prepared! Don’t worry though, they don’t stand and watch you do this. You can close the curtain around you. It’s not a lot but it’s better than nothing. Once you’re laid on the bed, with some blue paper on you the nurse can begin.

It shouldn’t be too long of a procedure, they usually advise around 5 minutes to complete it. However, I have a weird and wonderful thing called a retroverted cervix. This shouldn’t cause any medical issues, but it does mean it’s a little more tricky for the nurses to get to when having my smear test done. (I don’t even want to think what that will mean if I’m ever in labour.) So mine take a little longer. It also means I usually have to cough for the procedure to be completed.

Yes, the smear test is daunting and I always feel nervous about booking my appointment. But I also feel that if something were wrong, I’d rather know at a point where it can be caught than when it’s too late. Since finding out about my PCOS a few years ago, I have been more determined to book in for these tests. It turns out infrequent periods can potentially be a cause of cervical cancer.

If you have any other questions on what to expect during a smear test, drop me a comment below or contact me via my social media or emails. Or, if you’re in the UK have a look at the NHS’s Cervical Screening information.

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Hasta la fuego