Afraid of the smear test

Protein found in my urine

Smear test in a virgin

Question
I need to go for a cervical smear test and haven't been for one in over five years. The last test I had wasn't the nicest of experiences and I am now finding it very difficult to bring myself to go and have another.

I have on numerous of occasions booked an appointment, but then not turned up because I was so scared. I start feeling very sick and dizzy.

I've been having vaginal stabbing pains, a lot of clear discharge and suffer from bleeding and pain after sex.

My periods are very painful and I do feel that something is not quite right. However the thought of a smear test terrifies me.

I'm not sure what to do.

Answer
I am very sorry to hear of your anxiety before having a smear test.

I don't think any woman would say she looks forward to such a test and many feel exactly as you do and try to avoid having them. However, it is an important test to make sure you are in good health.

The first thing I would do is go to your doctor and explain how you feel. Until you do they will assume you feel fine about the test.

There are ways to help you reduce your anxiety including counselling and medication if required, but I think the longer you put off having a smear, the worse your fear will get. Make sure you point out how uncomfortable your last smear was, so that your next one can be less so.

Yours sincerely

Dr Roger Henderson, GP