Smear Tests



Smear tests.

Yes babes I said it. Smear tests. Or “cervical screening” for those of us, like myself, who are seriously turned off by the word ‘smear’ *shiver*

I am actually due a cervical screening and I’ve been feeling... the fear. I’ve had one before and it’s honestly not too bad but every time I am due for a test, I am guilty of putting it off. I’m not sure if it’s the worry of an abnormal result that stops me from going, or a fear of the pain. It’s probably a bit of both. You see, like many women out there I have Endometriosis and as a result of this, cervical screening can be painful. However, I push myself through the procrastination and force myself to book an appointment because I can only imagine, that cervical cancer would be much, much more painful. The decision to endure couple of uncomfortable minutes could quite literally save your life.

If you’re nervous, I have some tips.

• Book an early morning appointment. Getting it done in the morning stops you from getting anxious through the day.
• Try yoga or meditation before. Something to get you ‘at ease’ with your body, and into a clear headspace.
• Wear something that your comfy in. Leggings, joggers, a skirt etc.
• If you’re nervous, tell your nurse! If it’s hurting, tell your nurse! They keep different sizes of speculums, they will be able to try a smaller one for you.
• Fake it til you make it. Force yourself through the door, smile and chat to your nurse, act like you don’t care that you’re there. Focus on deep breathing and relax. If your vagina muscles are tense, it’ll be uncomfortable.
• Treat yourself afterwards. You may bleed after your test. I also usually get period type pains for the rest of the day. Make sure you can go home and sit with a hot water bottle and some of your favourite food.

As of now, 1 in 4 women do not attend their smear test. The number of women attending their appointments is dropping and is currently at the lowest it’s been for 20 years. This needs to change. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women under 35. Please. Get on the phone as soon as you can and book yourself in for a test. Do it for yourself. Do it for everyone who cares about you. Do it for girls who look up to you as a role model. Just do it!

Follow these links for advice and piece of mind. You’ll be okay.



Gemma x

4 comments

  1. Great post Gemma! Smear tests are something that are critical and the more of us who openly talk about them the better.

    Melanie | www.frasersfunhouse.com

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    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Melanie! I know how much anxiety can build up before an impending smear test! I hope this post can help at least one person maybe x

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  2. So glad to see you've posted about it! It's such an important thing, thank you for sharing 🌸💜✨

    With love, Alisha Valerie. x
    www.alishavalerie.com | www.twitter.com/alishavalerie

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