first smear please help extremely anxious

[Jenny Greenfield]

Hi
I would like to try and reassure you that the smear test should not be painful- it may be a little bit uncomfortable but the nurse should talk through what she is going to do and explain to you that if it is uncomfortable then you can ask her to stop. When you first go into the nurses room, she will ask you questions to make sure that you are the correct patient and also to make sure you are happy for her to do the procedure. Also, as it is you first smear she will explain to you what is going to happen. I guess it is at this point that if you wish to tell the nurse about your history then you should do so, as she may be unaware. It is often better if you do explain to the nurse how anxious you are as then it may make the procedure better for you. I hope this helps and good luck with your test