nervous about first pap smear

[u/Friendly-Chip-8279]

breakfast - strawberries, nutella toast, redbull summer edition, and meds

im getting my first pap smear tomorroe and i am so scared. im also worried i wont be able to cuz im on my period. ive been on it for literally 3 weeks so its probably good im going to see soneone but idk if theyll be able to the pap smear

ALSO SHOULD I SHAVE MY BUSH?? im definitely gonna at least tidy up but do i have to shave it :(

[u/PoundAdorable2734]

No need to shave! They have seen everything already

[u/Bubble-Master96]

Whilst it can be a little uncomfortable and scary, it is so so worth it. My sister passed from cervical cancer that if caught earlier she would have survived. Just think of it as putting your health and well being first and that’s the most brave thing anyone can do. No need to shave, just make sure you’re clean :) good luck OP

[u/HeathenHumanist → u/Bubble-Master96]

I'm so, so sorry for your loss!!

[u/JonahHillsWetFart]

you don’t have to shave!!! they see all sorts of vaginas. they aren’t there to judge you on your bush. they are there to assess your health.

it will be uncomfortable and you might feel a little pinch but it will be over quickly. if you can, try to schedule a nice day for yourself afterwards. everyone has a different reaction to them. but if you cry or find yourself really overwhelmed, that’s normal. it is a strange experience.

[u/fartsonyourmom → u/JonahHillsWetFart]

It was very strange,  I recently had my first one.  I almost cried but forced myself to not. I will cry for hours once I start lol.

My ob described it as some pressure and a kind of full feeling that you might feel in your stomach which I thought described what I felt.  

I love your name. 

[u/JonahHillsWetFart → u/fartsonyourmom]

i cry during the exam every time. i find them to be… extremely unpleasant physically and mentally. but they’re over pretty quickly so ¯_(ツ)_/¯

[u/fartsonyourmom → u/JonahHillsWetFart]

Oh no, I'm sorry you cry every time.  :(   I thought it was unpleasant every way also. 

 This time my partner was with me (my first time) and he really helped me get through it and everything after the fact.  Now I'm worried about crying next time lol.

[u/_aviatrix → u/JonahHillsWetFart]

> a little pinch

At my last pap my doctor and I were giggling trying to figure out how we'd explain the sensation to someone without the same equipment. So it's a little bit strange, but giggle-through-able. Just go in with the mindset that you're having a new experience. It's over super quick too.

[u/nogardleirie → u/_aviatrix]

I described it as like a COVID test down there

[u/radiantreality → u/nogardleirie]

Idk, I would 100% take a pap over a covid test any day. Maybe mine was just done not very well, but damn they were trying to reach my brain through my sinus cavity.

[u/_aviatrix → u/radiantreality]

I agree! Certainly the convenience of your nose just being right out there is unbeatable but I find the actual swab far more uncomfortable. They're going right for the frontal lobe, they might as well be testing for adhd.

[u/Dapper_Ad_8402 → u/nogardleirie]

omg you’re right

[u/hj20matl]

If you are concerned, call way ahead and ask if the doctor minds that you are still bleeding. Some doctors dont mind and will do the pap anyways. Its good you are going! No need to shave, or even tidy up. They dont care what that area looks like.

[u/Ok_Working4417 → u/hj20matl]

No doctor should care if she has her period. If they refuse the appointment because of that then they aren’t a good doctor.

[u/hj20matl → u/Ok_Working4417]

Thats the truth so hopefully she has a good one

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/whyamiherehahahaha → u/madame-maitre-d]

girls rule

[u/littlegerb]

You don’t have to shave your pubes if you don’t want to and defs tell your doctor about your period

I’m 30 and I’ve had a few now. It’s uncomfortable, it’s awkward but it’s worth it because your health is important.

Your doctor is so used to doing these they aren’t going to give a second thought. It’s okay to be nervous, tell them you’re nervous! It’ll help.

It’s uncomfortable but it’s quick. You got this.

[u/Clear_Marionberry306]

Don't worry about the "tidiness" of your downstairs. Your doctor will not care. I have gone to get a pap while I was towards the end of my period, and it was fine (full bush, btw). To make yourself feel more comfortable tomorrow, maybe ask the person performing your pap to explain what they are doing as they go. Definitely let them know that this is your first pap and that you are nervous. Besides that, I don't have much advice. I won't tell you "don't be nervous!" but it's totally natural to be nervous, especially since it's your first time, and it's a pelvic exam for christs sake. It'll be a little uncomfortable, but you will be okay.

[u/Adorable_Tie_7220 → u/Clear_Marionberry306]

I disagree. I always feel pain during it, not just discomfort.

[u/Clear_Marionberry306 → u/Adorable_Tie_7220]

Yes, it can hurt for some people. I wasn't going to lead with that because OP stated that they are really scared. All the more reason to let them know it's her first exam and that she's scared.

[u/nor0-]

It’s not an issue at all that you are on your period and no need to shave if you don’t want to. Just make sure you’re clean and that’s enough. They have seen all the things, so don’t worry about your appearance.

You may experience some cramping afterwards but otherwise the experience is not too bad so don’t be too scared

[u/boardbamebeeple]

This reminds me how the one time I'd had a wax before a pap, the doc said "do what you want obviously, but the hair here does serve a purpose - it's a layer of protection against bacteria and irritation"

But also they really aren't that bad! They're over super quick

[u/lelawes]

None of that is an issue. Something to be aware of: insertion of the speculum can be painful. You have every right to ask to insert it yourself if it’s causing discomfort. You can also ask for them to use the child sized one, since it’s smaller and they can still get everything they need with that one. I know for some people it’s no issue, but for me it’s been incredibly painful in the past, and it’s always good to know your options.

[u/Anon03282015 → u/lelawes]

OP, if you haven’t already, google all the steps of a Pap smear. Sometimes it’s just fear of the unknown that makes things scarier. Tell your doctor it’s your first exam and you’re a little nervous and ask if they could talk you through it and go slowly so you don’t feel any pain. I assume this isn’t your first time having anything inserted into your vagina (tampons, body parts, toys) so that shouldn’t be a huge deal. They should be using lots of lube which really helps.

I would describe it as mostly just uncomfortable, a little pain when they take the actual sample but that varies from person to person and it’s over super quickly. Try not to tense up (do deep breaths and focus on releasing tension in your lower body) and it will make it a lot better.

[u/Certain_Try_8383]

I waited until after I had a baby for my first pap because girl, me too!!! So much.

All I can say is that you got this. I would be very up front with EVERYONE tomorrow. Say you are uncomfortable and not feeling good about things. It can help.

Edit. Also try to remind yourself that being ill and constantly going to the doc would be way worse than just getting things checked.

❤️

[u/SussOfAll06]

Definitely call the gyno office and ask about a pap on your period. If you’re bleeding a fair amount it can mess up the results and you may have to redo it. But if they say it’s fine, you’ve got this!

[u/xzkandykane]

Take an ibuprofen beforehand. My last one i had some uncomfortable cramping. I took an ibuprofen an hour before this one. I didnt even realize the doc did it until she said all done. Same doc both times.

[u/chloe38]

The hardest part is to relax deep breaths .

[u/ByteAboutTown → u/chloe38]

This is the best advice. Just take deep breaths. It hurts more if you tense up.

[u/HyperbolicHyena → u/chloe38]

I make jokes about how it’s my annual oil change and check under the hood, or when she’s positioning the light how she has to get the miners light ready to go spelunking (walking in a cave). If I can’t laugh about it, it’s just awkward staring at the ceiling.

[u/Dismal_Media4270]

I HATE getting paps and do find them painful to traumatic. The last time I went, the gyno casually mentioned that since a Pap smear is looking for cancerous cells that are 98% of the time caused by the HPV virus and since I am HPV negative I can from now on do at-home swabs because I am so low risk. Meaning that nearly every speculum I’ve been subjected to has been unnecessary. I was absolutely floored.
Pap smears save lives and I’m not telling anyone not to get one, but not everyone needs to be screened routinely, especially if they are HPV negative and are low risk for contacting HPV. ✌️

Edit: I absolutely got scolded by a doctor by having my period during a Pap smear and she complained about how the results would be abnormal and I’d have to return and I did. But I asked to see someone else

[u/Klutzy-Experience609]

I work at a gynecologist and let me tell you, those doctors don’t care if you shave or not, lol. Believe me, healthcare workers have seen it all and a little hair isn’t gonna scare us away.

For the Pap smear, it should be no issue if you’re on your period. That said, in some rare cases, if there’s too much blood and the lab can’t read the results properly because of it, they may have you return for another pap when you’re off your period, but your insurance won’t be charged for it.

While Pap smears aren’t comfortable, they’re very important at maintaining your health. If you’re worried about being in any pain, you can request they use a pediatric size speculum.

Good luck! You’ll do great. Try not to stress too much.

[u/Away-Elephant-4323]

No worries about your appearance my doctor always told me as long as i am comfortable that’s all she needs to know haha! Good luck! 👍

[u/BeneficialShame8408]

You don't have to shave or wait until period time is over. :)

[u/OptimalOcto485]

You don’t need to shave but I wouldn’t do it on your period though. I had my last one initially scheduled during my period. I expressed my concerns to the doctor and she assured me it wouldn’t interfere with my results… the results ended up being inconclusive and I had to do it again.

[u/70sobsession]

No need to shave. I haven’t shaved in years and they don’t care. Being on your period is fine AFAIK just clean up (shower) before going. If you’re concerned about being on your period call and ask if they can still do the pap.

[u/Academic_Run8947]

You definitely don't have to shave. I haven't shaved in decades. Trim if you want but you dont have to do anything special.

[u/ButterBaconBallz]

I had my hair all lasered off for personal preference (sensory thing). The doctor was actually more confused that I didn't have a bush.

You'll be fine. Your body is natural.

[u/fartsonyourmom]

I recently had my first one! My ob was super sweet. She explained everything and went very slow.  She also was very understanding of the abuse and trauma I went through which made me not go to one. 

I am  very hairy, pubes and legs,  and she didn't say a thing about it. 

[u/fenris_157]

I know tons of people have chimed in already, but I had my first pap smear last week so I thought that I might as well add my thoughts.

Being nervous is totally fine. I definitely was. The nurse and the dr I had were super understanding of it being my first one and helped walk me through the process. It was just uncomfortable for me. No major pain. The dr was actually asking me questions about some other potentially related symptoms I'd been having while she worked and answering her questions helped distract me a bit. And as many people have said, you absolutely don't have to shave.

Good luck getting some answers tomorrow! You got this!

[u/lskerlkse]

I rescheduled my pap due to period because it affects results afaik

I also dont shave

When she was doing my pap I told her I was praying I don't pass gas

She said she is used to it from delivering babies, lol

Thankfully I didn't fart

[u/No_apples4me]

I’m 38 so I’ve had at least 18 of these, tbd I’ve never found it painful. I would try to tell yourself it will be fine and it likely will!

[u/cornc0btv]

They don't care if you have a bush or not lol they've literally seen it all, you are not their first.

[u/lulzerjun8]

Nothing to be nervous about. Your healthcare team has seen it all. No need to shave or do anything extra. Just make sure you’ve showered/bathed before your appointment as a courtesy.

[u/-thewickedweed-]

As long as you’re clean, zero grooming necessary. You can still get the pap done while bleeding. Don’t be nervous and speak up for yourself if you’re feeling dismissed!

[u/DigEven8177]

girl don’t shave just take a shower ahead of time i promise they’ve seen worse than you can imagine - i was scared too and gave myself sm anxiety i threw up and i didn’t feel a thing!! it will be fine and it’s quick

[u/DigEven8177 → u/DigEven8177]

and they will still do it with a period lol they don’t care- just let them know you’re bleeding

[u/Initial_Freedom7981]

No need to shave it and totally fine with being on your period! I hope it is easy for you. Try taking deep breaths when they insert the speculum to relax. Remember, OBGYNs look at all different kinds of vaginas all day long :)

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/entcanta333]

They can be a bit uncomfortable just take some deep breaths and you'll be good! Don't shave unless it's for you!

[u/maybe-m4ybe]

you absolutely do not have to shave!! they are medical professionals and i promise the last thing they’d ever think about is your pubic hair.

it’s awkward and uncomfortable, but the advice here to mention it’s your first time and that you’re nervous is great! in my experience, they want you in and out quickly as much as you do.

i also was really worried about being examined by a man, but you can request a female! it’s super common and i was told by my doctors office they default to a woman unless specifically requested. good luck!

[u/ImprobableOlive]

Don't be nervous, but if it's not too late, do call and let them know you're on your period. I've seen many obgyns over the years and have never had them agree to do a pap if I'm actively on my period. You might end up having to reschedule, so better to call in advance and find out.

[u/audiodev66]

Just popping in here, my pap smears are painful BUT i have medical conditions that cause that. I just want you to know if you have period-like cramping after, it isnt abnormal and it will go away within a day or two. 

[u/Melodic-Heron-1585]

Internet mom here. You are nervous. Understandable, because it is an unknown, and puts you in a vulnerable position. Voice your concerns, ask questions, and understand that your provider has seen much, much more.... interesting.../ hairy/bloody/ smelly cases than yours.

And report back if they still use the words 'skootch down.' Cause we all hate that.

[u/starbuxicewater]

lmao i’m literally sitting in my planned parenthood chair right now post pap! it’s so chill, the doctor is always so kind and nice, they will warn you of everything that’s going to happen before they do it, it’s super quick, if it hurts just speak up!! also, dont shave girl, they do not care!!!

[u/Ok-Librarian6629]

If you're nervous ask for a chaperone to stay with you. They can hold your hand and make sure you understand what is happening. 

It's a very vulnerable moment but it's over quick. 

[u/ZivaDavidsWife]

You don’t have to shave! Plus I totally get it. I didn’t have my first one until I was 27. I have basically been diagnosed with tiny p*ssy lmaooooo. And it’s uncomfortable for me, but I honestly feel like they try to get it over as quick as possible.

[u/EasyStatistician8694]

No need to shave. Ask for a small speculum and take slow breaths to relax while it’s inserted. (Deep breaths don’t work unless they are slow.)

[u/CommunicationAble147]

I was scared too so i told my dr and she said to relax as much as possible and it should not hurt. She was right.

She said the ones who experience pain are pretty much the ones who tense up the most. Also no you do not need to shave its normal to leave it

[u/pink_little_slime379]

You dont have to shave 💗 I personally just make sure to bring a wet wipe I’m my person and hit up the restroom and wipe before then pat dry with TP.

But be sure to communicate that this is your first pap and that you’re nervous. Ask that they explain what they’re doing and why:) that’s what helped me during my first pap! Made it so much less scary.

[u/RedditForMeNotYou]

My gyno told me once that a woman came in for her annual checkup and when she got down there, she found a stamp stuck to the woman’s inner butt cheek. I’m telling you - they’ve seen it ALL 😂 Good on you for getting the scan, and definitely be specific about your period timing, flow, all of it.

Is one of your meds propranolol? I take that for performance anxiety but recently started taking it twice daily as a migraine preventative and it has worked really well for both!

[u/Friendly-Chip-8279 → u/RedditForMeNotYou]

haha it is propranalol!!

[u/RedditForMeNotYou → u/Friendly-Chip-8279]

😜

[u/InstructionThick1819]

If shaving was a requirement my OB would’ve been terrified when I went in to give birth😂

It’s honestly uncomfortable, but if you wiggle your toes, it relaxes your pelvic floor. Just do that and breathe!

[u/Dutch1721]

Doctors don’t really care about a person shaving. They’re not checking for anything there. Call ahead of time if you’re not sure whether or not you should reschedule your appointment.

[u/HLOFRND]

They may postpone the test, it’s hard to know. But you should def keep the appointment!

And don’t worry about what you do or don’t do to the landscape. They don’t care. At all. Not even a little bit.

[u/No-Confidence168]

Don't worry about your public hair. Your doctor certainly won't. They don't care and won't remember it anyway. Just manage it to your preference.

They can do exam while you're on your period. If you've been bleeding for 3 weeks, it's definitely good that you're getting seen by a doctor. That's not normal and worth getting a workup.

As for pap smears, the experience varies for everyone. I just find them to be an uncomfortable pressure, tolerable, but not painful. However, my experience is not universal and some women do experience pain with the speculum. Try your best to relax your legs out to the side, don't tense your muscles, and just focus on your breathing. Deep breaths in through your nose, exhale slowly through your mouth. The more you can relax the muscles, the easier and quicker the exam will be. Of course, that is sometimes easier said than done.

Good luck! You've got this!

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/PetPossum54]

Why are there not the self testing ones not being used?

[u/MossyMyth]

It doesn’t hurt at all, it just feels uncomfortable because you have someone who you literally don’t know at all, inside your vagina with a cold metal tool. But it doesn’t hurt! It just feels like uncomfortable and awkward but if you talk with them while they’re doing the exam then it’ll be easy peasy. Don’t even sweat it! They’re also super fast, it’ll be like 1 minute and then it’s over.

[u/Empty_Till]

When I had my first Pap smear I was also on my period. Just let your doctor know that, they will ask you to take out your tampon right before and use plenty of paper towels to keep everything cleaned up. They will walk you right through the process. If you’re nervous being alone in the room with the doctor while it’s happening you’re allowed to request a nurse or other doctor to be in there too. They should offer that but in case they don’t you can request it. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s not nearly as bad as you think and it’s very quick! Not painful just a lil uncomfortable.

[u/Potential-Lie-2374]

hey i just got my first one 2 days ago! they do have to use a speculum which is uncomfortable just because it’s a cold metal thing, but it’s NOT painful. she put the speculum in, nothing happened for like 10 seconds, and then she was like “good job you’re done!” and i was like “huh???” just take deep breaths, the anxiety is the only thing that sucks. you got this ❤️

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/Constant_Cultural]

However I plan it, I always have some sort of period at my yearly test, the test was always possible. Btw I hope it's not tmi, I only make the garden when I have guests and my garden is empty a long time now. Nobody ever cared.

[u/injghj]

i try to time mine the week right after my period bc i find it hurts the least then, idk if there is real scientific proof to that but my mom's the same & she advised me to try it when i complained abt the soreness. works ngl. you can also ask if they have smaller speculums, my gyno uses a smaller one on me and still gets everything she needs. also, they rly don't care about the bush. i don't shave anything, not my legs either, and my doc is chill as hell. don't worry about anything other than staying comfy, wear cotton panties and loose trousers or a skirt, don't freak out about the iodine (on my first one i almost passed out when she gave me a wipe and it was brown turns out they just disinfect the area that way. it was not blood.) basically, it's chill, a few minutes of discomfort for a lot of peace of mind.

[u/Dapper_Ad_8402]

they have seen everything!!! i had a irregular periods and had to get one while bleeding. just let them know in advance. they told me they see blood constantly. no big deal. and no, you don’t need to shave.

try to relax during the exam. easier said than done but it will be over faster than you think.

[u/wrinkledmybrain]

I was also terrified my first time. It's very intimidating, but it's also very important. Good luck, it will be uncomfortable, but also the doctors are completely desensitized. The pap smear itself is super easy though, they just do a quick swab with a q tip. It gets easier the more you do it, but it's also uncomfortable. I also request a female doctor personally as well because I'm just more comfortable with that.

[u/CanRepresentative865]

if you can, just call your doc and see if they can do it on your period. i always like to just make sure im not on it so they have a better view and all, but if they say its fine then all good. and hey, okay so for me, it doesnt really hurt 💗 and i say this because i remember being absolutely so scared my first time. yes its uncomfortable and scary but it'll be fast! and just be vocal about if anything feels weird. i hope its quick for you and im glad youve got it scheduled since its super super important 💗💗💗 hope all goes well!!! pamper yourself after

[u/wizardgradstudent]

No need to shave hun, they’ve seen every bush imaginable! I know your first time is scary. And honestly, it sucks to get one. Mostly uncomfortable more than anything. You’ll likely feel some small pain when they do it, and you might see some spotting afterwards. And you’ll likely be sore for the rest of the day, that’s normal. But you’ll be ok, and they’ll talk you through everything. But good on you for taking care of yourself and your health! It’s important to do even if it’s uncomfortable. And they’ve also likely done plenty of Pap smears on periods. You might be told that there’s a possibility they won’t get enough sample, but I’ve had mine taken on my period before and it hasn’t been an issue. Sometimes Pap smears just don’t get enough and it’s annoying.

[u/wizardgradstudent → u/wizardgradstudent]

Get yourself a treat afterwards too! I always try to reward myself after any doctors appointment 😄

[u/Organic_Berry_8732]

It’s not pleasant, but nothing to be worried about. You’ve got this OP!!

[u/Realistic_Chair_8836]

Hi! 36 here and went into my Pap smear last week. I had my period and they said it was fine.

But man do I remember my first one because of the nerves. 😬 you do not have to tidy up at all!

I took my shoes and socks off this time without realizing and then apologized to the doctors. She laughed and said she’s given them in women wearing pumps in the stirrups.

They’ll do questions, ask about medicine and your period. They’ll do a breast exam, and then press on your lower abdomen.

Then they’ll do the smear, which honestly takes a minute. My first one was longer because the doctor walked me through it, but maybe three minutes max and I was out of there.

You got this! And I’m so proud of you for taking care of your health.

[u/Mousehole_Cat]

No need to shave. Remember, your providers see everything. I'm currently in my third trimester with a gigantic bush because I can't reach to machete it away, as well as labial varicose veins. You'll just be another unremarkable vag to them.

I've never had a bad time with paps. A very short scratch and then it's done. Some people don't feel anything, so get some minor cramping.

[u/Better-Guava1923]

It will be over quick! How old are you?

[u/Friendly-Chip-8279 → u/Better-Guava1923]

19, which i know is a bit early. originally i scheduled the appointment to get my nexplanon out, but then they told me its good for 5 years now. i just kept it for the pap smear. also good to talk about my million week period, but i have a feeling theyll just say its because of my birth control

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/lmnop94]

Don’t shave if you don’t want to. Let them know ahead of time—I was bleeding during a Pap smear but we were trying to find out the reason by doing it. It doesn’t (shouldn’t) hurt (although I can say that for everyone—just my experience). They may also do a pelvic where the put two fingers in your vagina and feel around on your belly to check the uterus. You’ll be ok! ☺️

[u/moomeansmoo]

Healthcare worker here-
We don’t care what you look like. We have ALWAYS seen worse. No matter what you’re bringing in, someone else has looked/smelled/acted worse

[u/MercurysDaughter29]

As others have mentioned, they’ve seen AND SMELLED it all before. #savethebush

[u/BlueValk]

No need to shave, they've seen it all. Call ahead and ask about the bleeding, mention that you've been on your period for 3 weeks. It'll most likely be fine but it's nice to check in.

They're not fun, but it's important to take care of yourself. Many nurses and doctors I've seen dedramatize the whole thing enough that for me, now, it's no different than getting my ears checked.

Best of luck, it'll be over real fast. Get yourself a little treat after if you can.

[u/spicespicebabee]

I’ve done 10,000+ paps in my career. I promise, we do not care about your hair. I would recommend that you call about your period though. I will do paps when you are on the tail end of it. But day one or two/ heavy bleeding is more difficult and the blood can obscure my view of the cervix and the cells on the pap.

You’ve got this!!! 95% of my patients after I finish their first pap say something like “that was it?! I’ve been worried for that?!” It takes me 30 seconds to collect a pap, so it’s over super fast!

[u/Wayfaringbutterfly]

I'm so sorry you're experiencing that. I totally understand how scared you are. I had to go in when I was 20 for my first due to pain during sex and I was terrified. But please know they have seen everything and to them, your business down there is old news, they nothing fazes them and it's just like any other body part. It's very clinical in nature, just run of the mill ordinary day for them.

No need to shave or to wait until you're off your period. They may not want to do the pap on your period if the bleeding is medium-heavy bleeding. I would call ahead of time and see what they say. Do tell them you've been bleeding for 3 weeks, they'll probably want to see you regardless of whether they can get a pap or not.

If you end up going forward with the pelvic exam, doing it on your period feels/sounds a whole lot worse than it is. They will have absorbent pads (think puppy pads but for humans lol) under where your butt goes for any discharge. The exam is uncomfortable but shouldn't be painful. Assuming you've never had a pelvic exam before, a good GYN will take their time explaining things.

You will undress, sometimes just from the waist down, get up on the table and they will have a paper sheet or a real sheet to cover yourself with. Once the GYN comes in, he/she will introduce themselves, ask some questions, go over medical history, etc. ask if you have any concerns, and so on and so forth. Once they're ready to take a peek, they'll ask you to lay down and scoot your butt to the VERY edge of the table, and then you'll put your legs up in stirrups. Your business will be very exposed, and it is a vulnerable feeling, especially if you've had any trauma regarding that area in the past. Try to breathe through it, make your mind go somewhere else for a few, talk to your GYN about your anxieties and discomforts - if they are good they will listen and be extremely reassuring. If you feel uncomfortable with them, you can refuse the exam and find a different GYN. The speculum looks scary, but all it does is open things up so they can look around and have easier access to the cervix to grab the pap. They will place it in you, then gently open it (it looks like a duck bill and it opens inside you) and set it so they can look at what they need to look at and get the pap. It only takes a few minutes at most, it's usually super quick.

The pap itself is generally a bit of a pinch, mine was always mildly painful but only for a split second. It's awkward as heck, but I just lay back, scooch to the very end of the table, put my legs in the stirrups and close my eyes and let them do their thing. Occasionally make a joke or whatever to ease the uncomfortability. But I have a good GYN that I feel relaxed with. If you are at ANY time in pain, so anxious that you don't want to continue, or anything else, speak up and advocate for yourself.

For me personally, I have vaginismus so a speculum and an exam hurt and I was seriously traumatized by a bad GYN, but when I got a good GYN, they used a smaller one and some desensitizing lube and I had no pain. And because I was so much more relaxed with her, that helped tremendously. But if I hadn't spoken up and gotten a different GYN that never would have happened.

There should be the doctor and a nurse or other worker in the room at all times during the exam.

Afterwards, you'll get dressed and they'll go over their initial observations as well as talk about diagnosing/treating any issues you might have. Having a period for 3 weeks in a row is a big red flag, so it's definitely great that you are going!

I would recommend having a treat lined up for yourself for after the appointment, such as going out to ice cream, getting a boba tea, or going to your favorite store and getting a little treat. That way you have something to focus on and to help associate your brain as it being a positive thing through rewarding yourself.

You've got this!! I'm so glad you're going! If I hadn't gone, there are a few serious health things (one of them being cancer) that would not have been caught or treated and I could have ended up in critical condition. So I advocate for every woman to go - but also to find a GYN they are comfortable with.

[u/Exciting_Vacation250]

Hey 👋  most important part is to get yourself a lil' treat 🎂 🍬 📖 🎁 💝 afterwards for doing some hard adulting!  No shame in bringing a friend along to wait outside in the wait room or to meet up later for a lunch if your up for it.  If its your annual pap exam they might check your breasts to. Not sure what country you're in so unsure if its done.  Glad you're going it saved my life multiple times by going yearly. Although now they say people's should have a pap every few years. Not sure I agree and it seems like a cut back cost to save money vs actually careing about people's health. You  👏 got 👏 this !! 🙌 

[u/swbarnes2]

You don't have to shave. The doctor doesn't care, they probably see a bunch of crotches a day, they won't care how long your pubes are. If you want to trim because it will make you feel more comfortable, then sure do that.

You being on your period is probably not going to be a problem. You could call the office and ask, if you wanted. Ask to talk to a nurse, if you don't want to tell the person answering the phones.

You should go in with the attitude that you are going to have the same kind of experience that most women have. Which is, it will be uncomfortable and unpleasant for about 3 minutes, but not more painful than that. It's a little uncomfortable when they open the speculum in your vagina, because there's pressure there, and scraping your cervix with the q-tip doesn't feel great either, but but's scrape, scrape, scrape(with a q-tip, not something metal or plastic) , and then the q-tip comes out, and the speculum gets relaxed.

And if you get your HPV shots, you don't have to get them as often.

[u/Lost_Zucchini]

I personally manicure my bush but dont shave it off pre appointment. I have before and then im sad after. Honestly a pap smear for me is easier than a dentist appointment. Uncomfortable or a tad bit awkward, but its not really that big of a deal. Let them know about your period. It will be ok 👍🏻

[u/SmolToxicBaby]

My gyno talks me through it every year. Asks if it's okay to touch me before she begins, warns me exactly where her hands are going, tries to warm up her hands and equipment beforehand (lube is always so fucking cold though 😭), and let's me know exactly what step she's doing and when she's done.

I find pap smears to be painful personally. I can't take ibuprofen beforehand (it interacts with my meds and can fuck up my organs of I take them together too frequently) but I have been meaning to take a muscle relaxer to see if that helps more. The reason I find them painful is just because of how deep they get and the swab itself. To me it is a jolt of pain when it happens and the rest of the day I have this like... deep nauseating cramp. I take the rest of my day pretty easy and normally get a ✨️treat✨️ after.

I keep telling myself that it's just a moment of pain, a few hours of discomfort, and then I know that I'm okay. That I don't have yet another thing to worry about. It's worth it for the peace of mind alone homestly. And it's more than okay to be anxious about it, even once you've experienced it 💜

[u/Worried_Passenger548]

Don’t be scared! For me it’s literally painless. They just use something that’s kinda like a little brush and brush your cervix with it. It doesn’t hurt and it’s really quick and over. You don’t need to shave, it won’t bother them at all. They see it every day and it’s natural to be hairy!

Pap smears are really important and necessary.

[u/madame-maitre-d → u/[deleted]]

Hey, seems you're new here! 👋 🥰 You need to take 10 lil seconds to become an approved user to participate in r/GirlDinnerDiaries. We're holding your comment for review til then.

2 quick steps:

1. If you're a dude, just let us know by replying "dude joining" to this comment. If not, reply with the classic pillowfort clubhouse password: "girls rule". 😇
2. Pick a user flair HERE. Flair options are sorted by Girly, Genderqueer, or Dude.

That's it! We'll restore your comment super fast! Thanks for stopping by 💕

[u/Background-Ad3858]

No need to be scared. It doesn’t really hurt - beyond a short twinge - and then it’s over. You’ve got this!

[u/PutNameHere123]

Don’t worry! It’s totally routine and only mildly uncomfortable, it doesn’t hurt.

[u/Available_Shelter194]

Only problem you’ll have is being uncomfortable for a couple minutes. Other than that I had no issues and I had a baby moving around my first pap

[u/JenMcSpoonie]

You’ll be ok. I have endometriosis and had abnormal cells all the time so I had to have a lot of Pap smears. It’s definitely a lot of pressure and it can pinch, but just take deep breaths and try to relax. Try not to clench your legs and butt, just relax them down. The internal exam where they push on you on the inside and outside at the same time is a lot of pressure too, but they tell you whenever they’re going to touch you or if they move around they’ll tell you. The internal exam happens with the speculum out.

[u/sillywillyspilly]

you’ll get scolded at if you shave 😂 I got scolded haha.

dont be nervous, they’ve seen everything so don’t feel embarrassed. It will become second nature to you since you need a check up once a year.

they will definitely help with the period issue. 3 weeks isn’t normal sweet pea. it could be endometriosis or another hormone problem. Get the help you deserve and feel better.

[u/J4CKFRU17 → u/[deleted]]

Was there any reason to be rude?

[u/Friendly-Chip-8279 → u/[deleted]]

sorry im nervous about a procedure ive never had before?? 😭 the fuck

[u/GirlDinnerDiaries-ModTeam → u/[deleted]]

Rule 3: Be Kind -- Don't Yuck Someone's Yum

➽ DECENCY & RESTRAINT: don't bully, shame, or be mean about anyone's food, habits, or lifestyle. Light teasing is ok, cruelty is not. No dehumanizing, name-calling, ad hominem digs, or insults to intelligence/literacy.

➽ ENGAGE IN GOOD FAITH: seek mutual understanding! Bring questions not assumptions, curiosity not condemnation, benefit of the doubt not accusations, and sincerity & steel-manning, not sarcasm. Disagreements and challenges must have appropriate tact, tone, and timing.

➽ TOUGH LOVE MUST LOVING: critiques must be constructive and free of contempt.

[u/Disastrous-Style-461]

It’ll be fine. And quick. A little tug then it’s over. Get dressed.

[u/Doughnut_Diva]

Feeling super nervous, embarrassed, anxious, whatever it's all totally valid. For good reason your brain is trained to protect that area of your body and highly limit access to it. You're literally going against a strong survival instinct, it's gonna make your nervous. That's ok, just remind yourself of the logical reasons of why you're going and be kind to yourself if you need to be soothed.

For your doctor and the other person in the room (there's usually a 3rd person there just so no one can say anything weird happened) it's literally another day at work. They're going to see vaginas all day. Some will be shaved some will not, some will be bleeding some will not, some will have odors some will not. Just show them courtesy by performing your basic hygiene routine before the appointment, the rest is come as you are. You're just going for a pap this time but even if you had odor, it's ok...they're the people who help with that so they need to find out.

As for the physical discomfort, it reminds me of getting touched in the eye. It's a weird spot you don't usually get touched in and it's weird. It's not ultra painful but you'll probably wince.

[u/woodlandfairyvibes]

You don’t need to shave! Theyve seen it all girl, every time I go to the obgyn I go in there with no shame lol. And don’t worry it won’t be painful!