Smear Tests, The Truth From The Lies
There's something about the phrase that strikes fear in the heart of many vagina owners. In the UK alone, millions of people are behind on getting a test- or have skipped them completely. Studies suggest that up to a quarter of British people don't get their smear tests.
Getting your test is crucial, though: during the test, your cervix is checked for HPV, which can cause cervical cancer. Around 850 people die in the UK of cervical cancer each year. Cancer Research UK estimates that around 99% of cases of cervical cancer are completely preventable.
So, we know it's important, but despite this, many people choose not to get the test. Why is this the case? Let's explore some of the myths and concerns that people have about the smear test.
It's painful
Unfortunately, for some people, this one isn't a myth. A lot of people will experience no pain- it's slightly uncomfortable, a strange feeling, but no worse than that. However, sufferers of conditions such as vaginismus and endometriosis might find that a smear test actually is painful. Prior to your appointment, if you know you suffer from vaginal pain, discuss your concerns with your doctor or nurse. You could also take some painkillers prior to the appointment to help.
Remember, you are in control during your smear test: you can ask for a break at any time.
I haven't had sex yet/I haven't had children yet- it's going to hurt more because of that
Speculums, the tool used to open the cervix for the test, come in a range of different sizes. Your doctor or nurse should discuss this with you, but it shouldn't hurt more because of these reasons.
I'm a virgin- the smear test will break my hymen
If done correctly, a smear test absolutely should not break your hymen. If this is something you're concerned about, speak to your doctor or nurse prior to the test.
It's embarrassing
This one is difficult because a lot of people do feel ashamed of their genitals. Society teaches us to feel a lot of shame around them: are they misshapen? Are they the right colour? Are they fragrant enough? However, it is important to remember that vaginas (and vulvas) come in all shapes and sizes and that the person doing your smear test is a professional who likely sees dozens of them a week. They're not judging you.
I'm afraid
You can take someone to your appointment with you (although in the current climate this might be less easy to arrange, so check in advance) or you can ask for your clinic to provide a chaperone to provide peace of mind. It's also worth considering taking a podcast or some music to listen to take your mind off the procedure.
It would be frightening if they found something
Again, this one is true. Many people have HPV without knowing it, and a smear test finds this. However, when identified early, anything found in your smear test is likely to be able to be treated before it develops into something worse. One of the reasons why you need to have your test regularly is to ensure that anything that does develop has minimal time to get worse. If you have anxieties around healthcare, it might be worth speaking to your doctor.
Smear tests aren't fun- but they save lives. There shouldn't be a taboo around this healthcare necessity, and discussing it openly and honestly is a good way to alleviate your concerns around it. A good thing about being part of a group of strong women like your local City Girl Network is that you can find people to have these conversations with.
You can learn more about the smear test, and why cervical screening is important on the NHS website here, and from Cancer Research here.
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Written By Nicole
