When Was The Last Time You Had A Pap Smear? (Beautyholics Anonymous)

This week is National Cervical Cancer Awareness week in Australia so ladies, today’s post is just for you.

So … pap smears. You know what? I used to think that pap smears are the yuckiest and most uncomfortable thing I’ve ever had to subject my body to (surgeries don’t really count, since all of the ones I’ve had had me knocked out good) until I had a mammogram. Yeah, try having a mammogram when you’re young and still have quite *ahem* bouncy boobs. You’ll be wishing you had 10 pap smears instead!

When was the last time you had a pap smear?

I know it’s a mighty uncomfortable thing to do. I’ve had a lot done with this trying-to-make-a-baby business and while I wouldn’t say I’m completely used to it, I don’t dread it as much any more. Like I said, it sure as hell isn’t as painful as a mammogram so I’ll take pap smears any time.

In Australia, pap smears are done once every 2 years. Mum told me that in Malaysia, it’s done once a year. Either way, we really should get it done especially if we’re sexually active.

Around 90% of cervical cancers can be prevented with regular pap tests. Even if you’ve had the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, regular cervical screening is still essential to prevent cervical cancer. I missed out on getting the vaccine and after I had my first pap test, I keep getting reminders from my GP that it’s time for my next one that I can’t help but get it done and over with just so they would stop bugging me (trust me, it’s a very good thing). I’ve had mine done by male and female doctors; all of them were good.

It’s like going to the dentist. Except it’s like, down there. Very true!

One of the GPs I went to for a pap smear taught me a great way to minimise the discomfort during the test. When you’re lying down, make both hands into fists and sit your bum on your balled-up fists. Your hips will be tilted upwards for the test. I do this for every pap test I’ve been to and it’s so much better and less uncomfortable.

Make your appointment NOW. Remind your female family members and friends to get their pap smears done too. It’s less than 5 minutes of slight discomfort for a whole lot of peace of mind.

You may end up saving lives. Including your own.

For more information, please visit the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation and if you’re located in Victoria like I am, PapScreen Victoria on where you can get pap tests.

So, have you had a pap smear lately?

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(…) pap smears. Now bras. Yep, Beautyholics Anonymous is ... by Do You Wear A Bra At Home?
Highly agree with you Jen. As uncomfortable as they are, must ... by Tine
Oooh thanks for the recommendation Carole. I'll check it out ... by Tine
Aww this is one TMI we have to talk about, sorry GASP! No!! ... by Tine
I definitely need to get 'em done because I had a large growth ... by Tine
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When Was The Last Time You Had A Pap Smear?

So, have you had a pap smear lately?

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