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Self-care note: This information talks about sexual violence and cervical screening. We use the term ‘survivors’ throughout, but understand not everyone relates to it. This information also includes quotes from survivors of sexual violence. If you find this information too distressing, remember you do not have to read it at all or in one go. We have a section on getting support at the bottom of the page that may be helpful.
June 2023 — Please be aware that this page is currently undergoing review. However, the information
stated is valid.
Many people find being invited for and having cervical screening (a smear test) uncomfortable and distressing. But if you have experienced sexual violence, you may find it particularly traumatic or distressing.
If you feel this way, you are not alone. We spoke with survivors and many said they had not attended cervical screening because of their experience of sexual violence.
Cervical screening can feel both intrusive and intimate because of the physical position the test is done in and the medical equipment used. This means it can trigger flashbacks of the things you have been through, or evoke physical and psychological responses, like a panic attack, dissociation, or freezing. Many survivors are anxious about having to disclose their experience to a healthcare professional.
Remember that these are all normal, reasonable responses and there is support available. We list some of the organisations who can help you at the end of this page.
The invitation
Getting the letter inviting you to cervical screening can be upsetting and make you feel very anxious. You may react by simply throwing the letter in the bin. If you feel able, talking about your feelings with someone you trust could be a first step to dealing with any issues or concerns the letter might be bringing up.
You might want to talk to your partner, a friend, relative, doctor or nurse. If you are currently getting mental health support to deal with your experiences of sexual violence, you might prefer to speak to your Rape Crisis counsellor, Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA), or another support professional.
If thinking about cervical screening is too much, you can ask your doctor to take your name off the cervical screening automatic invitation list until you feel stronger. Please be aware that you may be asked why you want your name removed.
Above all, try to remember that the violence you experienced was not your fault, and that you are deserving of care, safety, and dignity. It is also important to remember it is your choice whether to go for cervical screening and, if you do go, you are in control of the test.
Booking your appointment
Feeling that you are not in control of your cervical screening appointment may remind you of past violent or abusive incidents. You can begin to take back that sense of control by making some decisions about how you want the appointment to go:
- Ask for an appointment with a nurse (sample taker) of your preferred gender.
- Ask to be seen by a trusted doctor or nurse who you already have a good relationship with. While they may not already be fully aware of your situation, knowing that you chose them can help to make the appointment feel more comfortable. Be aware that they might not be qualified to do the test, but can be with you or talk to colleagues on your behalf.
- Book an appointment just to talk about cervical screening and find out more about what happens. You do not have to have the test at this appointment.
- If you are anxious about being alone with your nurse, or just want extra emotional support, take someone you trust to the appointment.
- Ask for a longer or double appointment. This allows you a little extra breathing space before and after the test, so you can take the appointment at a pace that is more comfortable for you.
- Plan what you are going to do after the appointment. You may not be able to carry on as normal immediately and need more time to ground yourself.
Disclosure
You may find disclosing your experience of sexual violence very difficult or you may have never disclosed. You may also deny it when asked. All of these feelings and reactions are normal.
There is absolutely no pressure to disclose anything during your appointment. But it might be helpful to let the nurse know that you are feeling uneasy. If they are aware, it may help them better understand how to help you through the appointment.
You may find it helpful to:
- Ask them to talk you through the test beforehand and show you the speculum and brush.
- Tell them what words or phrases you prefer or are comfortable with, to help them avoid any language that may be distressing.
- Tell them how heavy or light their touch should be, or not to touch certain areas if possible.
- Ask whether you can insert the speculum yourself, if that would feel more comfortable.
If you would prefer your nurse to know about your history, try practising this conversation beforehand with someone you trust. Alternatively, you can take a trusted person with you, who can be your voice if you lose yours. Or it might be easier to write it in a note that you can pass to your smear taker.
Panic attacks, dissociating, or freezing
If you are worried about stress responses kicking in, coping with these, or what your nurse might think, it may be a good idea to let your nurse know before the test. For example, you can tell them “I might cry” or “I might not be able to answer your questions”. You do not have to explain why you might react this way.
If you feel able, you and your nurse can agree a plan of action. It may include a word or signal that lets them know you need to stop the test immediately.
If your distress or anxiety starts rising, some self-care techniques may help:
- Try breathing deeply from your diaphragm (the part between your chest and stomach) for counts of 5 breaths in and 5 breaths out.
- Mindfulness or visualisation exercises may help prevent panic attacks.
- Distract your mind by listening to music or speaking with the nurse. You could ask them to keep calmly and gently reassuring you.
- Take a particular object, photograph, or scent with you to help keep you grounded in the present moment.
Knowing your limits
Remember that if you feel unsafe, uncomfortable or distressed, it is your right to stop or pause the test at any time – whether you simply want a short time to collect yourself, or you would prefer to leave altogether.
It is absolutely fine if you don't go through with your cervical screening on the first attempt. You can always try again on another day or with another nurse. Be patient and gentle with yourself, and remember that your nurse's main concern is your health and wellbeing. They are not there to judge, and should be respectful of your emotional need to move forwards at your own pace.
Likewise, once you have had your cervical screening, give yourself the time and compassion you need to deal with any difficult feelings it may have brought up.
