Kendra is a young woman working as a professional in Toronto. She's a cat lover, a bookworm and has always had a deeply rooted interest in people, love and what happens when the former attempts the later.
She's been in three long term relationships, lost her mother when she was 16 and has lived through her father's alcoholism and drug abuse. She's a college graduate in journalism and art, has a quirky personality and has acquired some realistic yet romantic beliefs about love and relationships.
She lives with her boyfriend. Life may not have always been good, but it is good now.
Gender: Female
Location: Ontario
Member Since: August 22, 2008
Answers: 207
Last Update: February 14, 2013
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Razhie
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I am 20 yrs old. I was the victim of a raping at a very young age. After being checked out by the hospital, it really made me scared and uncomfortable. that was when I was 6, now im 20 and still have never been to an OBGYN. my mother never took me to one, and since ive lived on my own for the last 2 years, i havent taken myself either. I am really scared and uncomfortable and really dont know how much it will cost. Does anyone have any advice for me?
scaredy cat (link)
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I too hate the pap smear and went through great anxiety with it. Here are the things I have found made the experience MUCH easier and less scary.
- Have the speculum lubricated for easier entry.
- Don't use the stirrups. Cross your ankles together and flop your knees down at the sides.
- Help the doctor guide the speculum in with your hands so you know exactly what is happening and you feel like you're choosing the entry and it's not happening to you against your will.
- Wear something familiar and comfortable over the gown, like a sweater you like.
- Inform your doctor about your sexual trauma so that he or she will be sensitive to your needs.
- Imagine you're on the toilet and relax as though you were having a bowel movement. Seriously. It really works. This imagery relaxes the right muscles, allowing for much smoother access of the speculum.
I don't know how much it costs because I'm Canadian and we don't pay for our healthcare. But as for your fears, it's totally normal to feel that way, you're not alone, and your doctor should be perfectly willing to work with your fears and concerns to make it more comfortable for you.
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Rating: 5
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thank you. :-) I think It will still be a while before I am comfortable enough to go, but when I finally do go, Ill keep your advice in mind.
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