Doctor says women should abstain from certain things before smear test
Every woman will go through having the dreaded smear test, or even take a visit to a gynaecologist - but did you know there's one thing doctors warn women not to do before their appointment?
As important as they are, having a smear test can be a breeze for some, but can be a nerve-wracking experience for others. There are also a few things to remember before heading off to your appointment. Doctors urge women to abstain from having sex for at least 24 hours before your appointment, and Dr Susanna Unsworth, the in-house women's health expert for INTIMINA shared some insights into why.
Smear tests are an important part of women's health as they can detect problems as well as looking into a women's overall cervical health. Therefore, it's important for women to get their test when invited. If you're having a smear test, semen, lubricants and spermicides can ultimately affect the results and advised to keep sex off the table ahead of the appointment, as well as using any creams or pessaries for 24 hours before too. The expert also offered some advice for women who may feel a little embarrassed ahead of their appointment and other precautions to consider ahead of going.
"Do not feel the need to excessively clean yourself — this can do more harm than good. External cleansing with water and simple non-fragranced products (ideally pH balanced for the vulva) is important for general hygiene, but do not over-wash, and definitely do not perform any internal douching," Dr Susanna explained to The Metro.
She also stated that you don't need to worry about being freshly shaven or waxed, and claimed women should just do "what they're comfortable with" as doctors have "seen it all anyway", and it's the same with underwear too - she just told women to wear whatever is most comfortable.
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Another point Dr Susanna stressed was not to lie about symptoms. Women will be asked about periods, abnormal bleeding, discharge, smells and their sexual activity and said that there's "no need to feel embarrassed" about it and there is no need to lie. You will be asked all sorts of questions, so the expert urged women to keep track of their menstrual cycle - and in particular "any bleeding" that is abnormal "between cycles".
It's also worth noting that bleeding when your appointment is due doesn't necessarily mean you should cancel - it's all down to why you are going. "Fitting a coil is actually easier when you are menstruating, but it is best to be bleed-free when having cervical screening. If you are bleeding irregularly, it is important to get assessed, so it does not matter if you are bleeding – we would rather see you than delay things," Dr Susanna added.
For those who may be feeling worried or anxious, the expert suggested calling ahead to find out who you are seeing on the day. She advised that could also try and speak to the clinician beforehand to make the visit on the day easier.
If you have any worries or concerns, it's always best to consult your GP, and more advice on cervical screenings can be found here.
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