[soccerlady]

Ok I know it's embarrassing but I am really afraid to get a pap smear. I am sexually active and need to go see my doctor to get one.

Last time she tried to do it I freaked out because I thought it really hurt
I felt like a retard. Is it always painful for women? Like every single yearly examination?

[gettingclean]

**removed outbound link** Information on digestive problems, systemic yeast (candida) infection, and candida diet[/url] ?? because of your last post, and this one... I would recommend seeing a doctor or irodologist.

[soccerlady]

****removed outbound link**** Information on digestive problems, systemic yeast (candida) infection, and candida diet[/url] ?? because of your last post, and this one... I would recommend seeing a doctor or irodologist.

Um ok?

[KMonte85]

yeah, I'm not sure what gettingclean was getting at there. Fear of a pap smear is not on the same line as appetite issues. Perhaps this member just misunderstood what you were asking.

It's definitely not a super comfortable procedure, but I don't think it generally hurts very bad... just some pressure and almost a pinch-y type feelings. I go once a year as part of my yearly physical.


But yes, you definitely should go and get checked out! Don't let your embarrassment or discomfort with it stop you! It's a very important part of women's health and can actually save your life, should something be abnormal!

[gettingclean]

oops I posted a link to a site about candida... you can research it online. it affects/effects? the digestive tract and the vagina. I am not saying that is what you have but keep a journal of all you symptoms so when you see a doctor he can better help you

(sorry moderator for the link in the previous post, my bad)

[rosekitten]

You need to find a doctor that will be patient with you. There is nothing to be afraid of, and I know I don't look forward to my yearly, but it needs to be done. Have you considered asking a trusted friend/family member to go in with you to help keep you distracted?

[lizzardb63]

It's not so bad. I think the worst part is the icky feeling after! (They use lube)... lol. Just let her/him know that you've never had one before, I'm sure they'll take it slow.

[notlikethenormal]

For me, its not the exam itself that makes me uncomfortable. Its the person doing it, I get very uncomfortable because I dont know that person. Its an extremely intimate position your sitting in with this complete stranger pushing around on you.
A lot of my fear regarding that area was pretty well obliterated when I gave birth to my now 6 month old son.

I do agree with the other posters though, it is necessary and will keep you healthy in the long run. I don't enjoy it, but it comes along with being a woman.

If you're woman enough for sex you need to be woman enough to go to the doctor and know your body.

That being said I always gift myself a small reward afterward.