How to Relax During a Pap Smear

Most women do not like getting a pap smear taken. The procedure is not painful but it is usually uncomfortable. In addition to the physical discomfort many women have an issue with modesty during a pap smear. Being able to relax during a pap smear is important. If your muscles are tense the discomfort will be greater.

Instructions

• 1

  Remember it is nothing new for the doctor. Pap smears are something most women do once a year. Your doctor does pap smears and vaginal exams all day every day. To you it is a very bid deal, but for the doctor it is an every day medical procedure he performs.

• 2

  Do Kegel exercises daily. Your pelvic floor is a muscle. Exercising the muscle will give you more control over it. Even if you can not get your mind to relax during a pap smear, a well developed pelvic muscle will be able to be relaxed in preparation for a pap smear.

• 3

  Take an aspirin before leaving the house. Taking one aspirin before a pap smear can help to relax you and make the you feel less discomfort from the procedure.

• 4

  Ask to use the bathroom before seeing the doctor and empty your bladder even if you think you don't have to go. Having an empty bladder during a pap smear will make it less uncomfortable. A full bladder will make it hard for you to relax on the table.

• 5

  Do deep breathing relaxation exercises when you enter the doctor's office and every time you are feeling nervous.

• 6

  Pick a spot on the ceiling, or high up on a wall, to focus on while you are laying on the table. It makes it harder to relax during a pap smear if you do not know where to put your eyes.

• 7

  Follow your doctor's lead. Most doctors will try to make conversation with a patient while they are doing the pap smear. Especially if she knows you are feeling uncomfortable. She will ask you questions and try to engage you in conversation. Let the doctor talk you through it and it will be over before you know it.