While some women may find Pap and HPV tests uncomfortable, the tests should not be painful. You will feel pressure as your doctor or nurse puts the speculum into your vagina. If you have never had sexual intercourse or if you have had pain when something is inserted into your vagina, you can ask your doctor or nurse to use a smaller speculum. You can also help lessen or prevent pain by urinating before the test to empty your bladder or by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever about an hour before your Pap or HPV test. Pap smears shouldn’t hurt. If you’re getting your first Pap, it may feel a little uncomfortable because it’s a new sensation that your body isn’t yet used to. Women often describe it as feeling like a small pinch, but everyone has a different threshold for pain. There are also other underlying factors that may make one person’s experience more uncomfortable than another’s. If you are experiencing vaginal discomfort, are between the ages of 21 to 65 and are in need of a Pap smear, contact our office today to get in touch with a specialist. To book an appointment, call us or visit us online! We serve patients from Austell GA, Lithia Springs GA, Mableton GA, Powder Springs GA, Douglasville GA, Fair Oaks GA, Hiram GA, Clarkdale GA, Smyrna GA, and Marietta GA.