Hi everyone, has anyone had a smear test? Does it hurt a lot? I'm going for one in a couple of weeks and feeling nervous!

hi its not painful - a bit uncomfortable but thats all - just tell your doc its the first time youve had one and ask them to warm the speculum!!! (thats the instrument they use to open the vagina to give them access to the cervix)tell your doc if its anything beyond just uncomfortable - it shouldnt be and they are usually gentle and use lots of lubricant - feels a bit wierd lying there with your nether regions out and talking about the weather or your sex life or whatever but you get used to it and its really important - good on you for doing it - you can also ask to have a nurse present if you want to have someone hold your hand!! good luck and dont worry - its a piece of cake!!

Thanks for your reply! I'm hoping it's like lots of things in life: not as bad as you think they're gonna be!