I’m so sorry so many of you had such unsympathetic staff carry this out, that’s not going to help and would likely worsen pain.

I get a lot of pain with smears and I think it’s because I have a retroverted uterus, it’s not uncommon. The angle is different, more awkward. I tell the staff beforehand and they thank me because it does prepare them too.

Last nurse I had was so kind and although it hurt she talked all the way through and reassured me. It makes a huge difference.