Pap smear..?

how do they do a pap smear?

How is this procedure performed?
Before performing the Pap smear, your gynecologist will ask you about your medical history, specifically related to your reproductive health. If he or she does not have a record of previous Pap smears, the doctor may ask you about the date and result of your last test. It's also important that your doctor is aware of any problems with your menstrual periods; any medications you are taking, especially birth control pills or hormones; any family history of cervical or other gynecological problems; or any abnormal symptoms you've been experiencing. The Pap smear is a very quick procedure. You will lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet apart. You may feel some pressure as the doctor inserts a lubricated instrument called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum holds open the walls of the vagina so your doctor can examine the inside of the vagina and the cervix. Your doctor then uses a special swab to scrape some cells from the surface and the inside of the cervix. These cells are then smeared onto glass slides, sprayed with a preservative to protect the cells, and then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

Like she said, you go into the office, and the doctor asks you about your medical/repoductive history. He then may explain the procedure to you and then leaves you to change out of your clothes into a hospital/paper gown.

You lie on the examining table and put your feet into the stirrups, with your butt scooted all the way to the edge of the table. He'll tell you to breathe deeply and he'll insert the speculum (which he will cover with a water-based lubricant). He examines your vagina and cervix, visually and uses the swab to retrieve a sample for testing. After removing the speculum he will insert two fingers and press down on your lower tummy to examine your uterus and ovaries. After that he may or may not give you a breast exam.

It's all very quick and takes five minutes or less. If your doctor is a male, there will always be a nurse in the room (if there isn't, speak up and request a nurse). You are also welcome to have a Mom, Sister, or friend in the room with you if it makes you more comfortable.

If you're really anxious about the exam, speak up before the exam and let the doctor know when you're scheduling your appointment that you would like something to relax you (they may give you a small dosage of valium, or some other mild relaxing drug).

Don't be afraid or embarassed. Think of it like this --- chances are that doctor has seen everything! Your vagina to him is like a mouth to a dentist. He sees it as nothing more than just another place that needs to be kept healthy! Just breathe deeply and relax (because this will make the procedure a lot more comfortable and quick), and possibly bring an ipod or portable cd player and keep some soothing music on in one ear during the procedure.