PSA: You can do a significantly less invasive self-swab instead of a traditional pap smear and it takes like 20 seconds
(US-focused post, apparently a number of other countries have already been doing this, and others may not have adopted yet)
In mid-2024 the FDA approved self-swabbing to test for HPV, the cause of some ~95% of cervical cancers. Evidence suggests this new test is just as accurate as a traditional pap smear for detecting HPV. Note that you're advised to test every 3 years rather than every 5.
No speculum required, it uses a long thin cotton swab and only needs to be inserted around 2-3 inches. It is rotated a few times to collect cells, then inserted into a test medium. Very similar to a covid rapid test lol.
It was a simple, quick, essentially painless process and the doctor gave me complete privacy for it.
At-home kits are also being rolled out, but insurance coverage is still pending for it.
If you've been avoiding pap smear, consider asking if self-swab is an option! I understand it may still be uncomfortable or triggering, but I would like to believe it can make going to the doctor a little less scary.
