smear test

selement

As someone who works in the treating cancer field it makes me sad to see people refusing their free screening. I've only had one done as I'm 27, it hurt a little (I'm a wuss, I think injections hurt) but it was all over with quickly and well worth the peace of mind. Cancer is rarely cured once it has spread, these tests allow earlier detection either before the cancer develops or at least before it has spread and become incurable.

Reminds me of those people who are anti vaccinations...

I do understand nobody does it for fun though and it can be hard to prepare mentally for it. Just remember it can't possibly be as bad as you think and it'll all be over in a minute or less.

ETA: Talking of GPs putting pressure on though mine keeps trying to fit me with a coil! Every single time I go in for repeat pill prescription they try to make me switch over. Seems like a weird government incentive if I'm taking my pill correctly (for 6 years)? I'm sure it wouldn't save them much money. I'll probably want kids in the next 3 years so don't want to do anything too invasive....

Sarahdol75

My sister died of cervical cancer 9 years ago, I absolutely hate my smear test, but it is necessary. I now have them yearly as a precaution.

Armchair23

avogrado there are various targets that offer GP's financial incentives.
My GP tried to offer me contraceptive advice though I was post menopausal and my husband had had a vasectomy !

But it doesn't mean that screening , with all it's faults and issues is not worthwhile.
I am really concerned that we are making out that having a smear is a week off work, and a major psychological, & physically painful intrusion for everyone.

For most of us it's just a thing, not fun, not un-intrusive just not that big a deal.

And I truly empathise with women who don't find it easy, who needs a giant cotton bud up your fanny ? It's not on my Xmas list that's for sure !

If you choose not to have a smear that's absolutely fine, but please don't make that decision because one of us has scared you off.

System

Armchair23 wrote: »

avogrado there are various targets that offer GP's financial incentives.
My GP tried to offer me contraceptive advice though I was post menopausal and my husband had had a vasectomy !

Yes, it is things like this that make one realise how nonsensical the system can be.


There are pros and cons to any screening, as mentioned in earlier posts, and every patient has the right to make their own decision as to whether or not to take up the offer. Problems can occur when patients are denied that right, whether overtly or covertly.

Blackpool_Saver

I would not be here now if not for the smear test AND Good Morning Britain, I have had yearly-ish ones since. Don't miss it ladies please, just take deep breaths, the only part you feel is when they sweep the cervix, the rest is just routine.

teddysmum

Honestly, relaxation does work, as the instrument is not fighting tense muscles.

Tigsteroonie

Relaxation works for childbirth too .. and labour could be described as 'routine' ... but childbirth is definitely not painless

Seriously, I'm pleased that so many of you find the procedure painless, non-intrusive, routine. I wish I did, too. And believe me, I've tried the relaxation, breathing, yoga, being talked through the procedure, having the most experienced practice nurse. I think when it was described by the OP as "an advance ... quick, painless" I was hoping that the procedure had actually radically changed for the better. Sounds like it hasn't.

Shovel_Lad

I found this website very useful/helpful.
http://forwomenseyesonly.com/

Please be aware that it may be triggering for some people.

VfM4meplse

Angry_Bear wrote: »

What an odd point to try to make - women don't get prostate exams.

Ok, a DRE is invavsive but most men don't mind having their b*llocks played with.

heartbreak_star

Shovel_Lad wrote: »

I found this website very useful/helpful.
http://forwomenseyesonly.com/

Please be aware that it may be triggering for some people.

I am glad you found it useful.

At first glance/skim read, it looks like a load of fainting-couch hysteria to me.

I'll read some more later, but I'm not keen...

HBS x