Millions Neglect Cervical Exams: Strategies to Boost Confidence in Attending Screenings
Cervical screening, also known as a Pap smear, is an essential health test for female bodies. It helps detect abnormal cells, human papillomavirus (HPV), and cervical cancer, potentially saving lives.
During the appointment, you undress from the waist down behind a screen and use a disposable sheet to cover your pelvic area. The size of the speculum, a tool used to gently open the vaginal walls and gain access to the cervix, differs from person to person and is dependent on your age and the size of your vaginal opening.
To alleviate anxiety and prepare for the test, consider these steps:
- Learn what to expect during the procedure to reduce uncertainty and fear.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness before and during the appointment.
- Communicate your preferences to the healthcare provider, such as asking to lock the door, bring a larger covering for comfort, or even insert the speculum yourself if available.
- Use distractions during the test like listening to music, watching videos, or reading on a phone or tablet.
- Stay well hydrated in the 24 hours before your appointment to reduce discomfort.
- If anxiety is severe, discuss with your doctor the possibility of anti-anxiety medication to make the test more manageable.
- Resources like apps offering self-help techniques based on Compassion-Focused Therapy can help manage trauma-related symptoms and improve psychological well-being related to screening anxiety.
It's important to remember that you have full control during the procedure and can stop it at any time if you are in pain. The test should not be painful, but you may experience a little discomfort in your pelvic area and some pressure. Light spotting may occur after a cervical screening due to irritation of the cervix.
Heavy bleeding after a cervical screening is not common and should be reported to a doctor as soon as possible. Wearing comfortable clothing during a cervical screening can help increase confidence and relaxation.
In the United States, experts warn that the rate of cervical screenings is in steep decline, particularly among people aged 21 to 29 years. Data from the National Health Services (NHS) in the United Kingdom indicates that around 5 million people are not up to date with their cervical screenings.
The healthcare professional conducting the screening is an expert and has conducted numerous cervical screening tests before. They use a soft brush to collect cell samples from the cervix after using the speculum. Taking deep breaths during the screening can help calm anxiety and reduce discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help prevent discomfort during a cervical screening.
Finding a trusted healthcare professional can reduce physical and emotional discomfort during a cervical screening. Scheduling a cervical screening on a day when you are likely to have your period or using vaginal creams before the test may interfere with the sample and require rescheduling. Some people may find distractions, such as music or television, helpful during a cervical screening. Some people find that different positions reduce discomfort during the screening.
Remember, cervical screening is a potentially life-saving test and is the very best protection against developing cervical cancer. If you are really concerned or anxious about any part of the test, it is advisable to speak with the doctor or nurse in advance. It usually takes 1-3 weeks to receive the results of a cervical screening sample. A positive result for HPV or abnormal cells on the cervix does not necessarily mean you have cervical cancer, but may require further testing, such as a colposcopy and biopsies.
- During a cervical screening, it's crucial to remember that you have control and can stop the procedure if you feel pain.
- To alleviate anxiety and prepare for the test, consider understanding what to expect, practicing relaxation techniques, communicating with the healthcare provider, utilizing distractions, staying hydrated, and discussing the possibility of anti-anxiety medication with your doctor.
- Resources like apps offering Compassion-Focused Therapy can help manage trauma-related symptoms and improve psychological well-being related to screening anxiety.
- In the United States, experts warn that the rate of cervical screenings is in decline, particularly among people aged 21 to 29 years, and data from the NHS in the United Kingdom indicates that around 5 million people are not up to date with their screenings.
- Cervical screening is a potentially life-saving test and the best protection against developing cervical cancer, making it essential to overcome anxiety and strive towards regular testing for women's health and overall health-and-wellness.
