Your doctor may tell you it’s okay to do the test while you’re on your spotting or on your period, but it’s not ideal because it can skew the results. If you’re getting it done while you’re on your period, use pads instead of tampons the first 2 days before your appointment. If you’re over 21, you should get a pap smear every 3 years. If you’re over 30, you only need to get one every 5 years. However, depending on your circumstances (like if you’ve had a history of ovarian cancer), your doctor may suggest you get them more often. If you’ve had a complete hysterectomy (both your uterus and cervix removed), you don’t need a pap smear unless you’ve had surgery for cervical cancer or pre-cancer.

Additionally, don’t use any spermicidal foams or vaginal medicines 2 days before the test because these can also skew the results of the pap smear.

It’s okay to masturbate, just avoid using any lubricants if you do.

Your doctor will also ask you about any pelvic pain you may experience during your period. If you’re on birth control, your doctor will probably check in with you about that too (i. e. , how it has impacted your cycle and if you’re happy with the particular method of contraceptive).

For example, you might ask general questions about your period like: “Is it normal to feel pain in my hip during my period?” or “I’m thinking about having a baby in the next few months. When should I stop taking my birth control?”

A long skirt with a shirt, loose sweatpants, activewear, or soft jeans are good options. The excess moisture is from the lubricant the doctor will use on the speculum. It’ll feel normal again in a few hours but if it makes you feel more comfortable, you can always wipe and dry yourself with toilet paper.

You’ll feel some pressure on your pelvis during the exam which can make you feel like you have to pee right then and there, so peeing beforehand will make you more comfortable.

For instance, you might ask: “Is this going to hurt or just feel weird?” or “Do I need to wash my vagina afterward?” If you or anyone in your family has had breast cancer, you might also ask them how to perform a breast exam so you can do it yourself between appointments.

This is especially important if you’ve had unprotected sex because itchiness, visible sores, or inflammation could be a sign of an STI.

For instance, you might say something like: “Before we do the exam, I need to mention that I have had sexual trauma in the past. Please let me know exactly what you’re doing when you’re doing it so I know what to expect and can be less uncomfortable. ” If you have experienced sexual trauma and are seeing a new doctor, it may help to book a preliminary appointment to build trust and let them know what you are and aren’t comfortable with. In some cases, your doctor may allow you to insert the speculum yourself if that makes you more comfortable.

You can request that a female nurse come into the room if that makes you more comfortable.

If you are only getting a pap smear (and not a breast exam) you will most likely only be asked to get undressed from the waist down.

The stirrups ensure that your legs are far enough apart that the doctor can perform the test comfortably.

The doctor will lubricate the speculum beforehand to make it easier. The doctor may warm the speculum so you’re more comfortable. This instrument helps to hold your vaginal walls apart so that the doctor can access your cervix. Most offices post a funny picture or something on the ceiling above you for you to look at if you’re feeling awkward or nervous.

The doctor will likely check in with you to see if you’re feeling relatively comfortable. The scraping device is a soft brush that’s used to take a sample of your cervical cells. Feel free to talk to the doctor or nurse about anything to distract yourself—recent events, movies, music, or whatever you like!

Your doctor will call you to talk about your results when they’re ready.