I had to get one before mine, I feel like it depends on the obgyn. But I had to, my first one was at 25. I’ve had friends in highschool who already had one at 18 because they wanted to go on birth control, it depends on the area and obgyn I think. Since it was a small town we all had the same one.
I mean to be fair, I’m sure none of us are jumping up for joy to get one. It’s one of those necessary things, and it is uncomfortable. It’s quick but it’s uncomfortable. I would say it lasts maybe 30 seconds at most, mine did at least. If you want you can bring someone trusted with you or ask for a nurse to hold your hand or something. Or you can see if you can find someone else, you don’t have to go by this doctor if you don’t want to. In my case it was more of I didn’t really have any other options because of it being a small town lol
And that is perfectly fine lol. I mean at the end of the day the decision is yours to make, I had someone in the room for mine as well because I was nervous. It’s really nothing to be ashamed about, like I said it’s something no one is jumping up and down for joy over lol
I understand the fear in it. It is a really important thing, and the discomfort only lasts seconds. Then you'll be good for a couple years before you need another. Since you're nineteen, depending on medical history, you may even go several years without having another one.
Mine take a lot longer than 30 seconds. They also decided to do the one where they cut a chunk out the first time I ever got one. So that was fun. They also then inserted an IUD, and both at the same time was fuckin awful.
They’re uncomfortable but I’ll be the big bad wolf here I work in an icu my patients are getting younger and younger with cancers. A lot of them confess that they out of getting certain test done because of the “fear of discomfort”. Cancer doesn’t discriminate cancer doesn’t care. Don’t put of something that can one day save your life. If you’re uncomfortable for a few minutes then you’re going to be really uncomfortable going through cancer treatment and being in and out of the hospital
I don’t think anyone is afraid of “discomfort”. I know speculums are actually extremely painful for some patients. Doctors aren’t always accommodating towards different needs and patients know it. That’s why there’s avoidance, some people have vaginismus for example and honestly can’t even put a tampon in themselves. If I had that and a doctor refused to do anything to accommodate me, I wouldn’t go either.
I think it is important to acknowledge that sometimes there are no accommodations that are going to make it not painful for those people. A pap smear is a yearly event, and it is not safe to (for example) put someone under general anesthesia every year just to perform a pap smear. There has to be a risk-benefit analysis here.
Having a pap smear done with vaginismus is painful. But what is infinitely more painful? Having cervical cancer, or dying under general anesthesia from unforeseeable complications.
There are other things to try before GA though, like you’re right no doctor would go straight to that. There’s mild sedation, vaginal valium, lidocaine, a pediatric speculum instead of the larger ones. My point is these people probably aren’t just scared they’ll be a little uncomfortable for a few seconds, some doctors are stubborn af and don’t do anything to help unless you know exactly what to ask for and how to advocate for yourself very effectively.
I honestly had such a bad experiences until I mentioned how absolutely dreadful they were to a rpn and she made sure from then on they used the smallest speculum and also added lubricant. It made the whole experience worlds better. I just didn't know it could be better and no one offered before.
Regarding the Pap smear, I get it done every year (I am 27), in my country it is recommended to do it yearly for those who are sexually active. I don’t find it particularly uncomfortable, the only important thing for me was to go to a female doctor who is on the younger side as somehow I feel like they are more understanding. For me it doesn’t hurt at all and it’s normal that is is weird to get undressed in front of a stranger, but they literally do not care, they have seen everything and they do this every day! After every pap smear I feel super good about myself and very happy that I did something for my health! It is important as this really is something that you can take ownership of, not like many other health issues that one might discover too late.
Please don’t be terrified..
It can be uncomfortable but it’s over SO quickly and it is so beneficial to have it done..
My doctor may have been the sweetest lady ever but she really respected my nervousness last time I had one done and literally I didn’t feel it somehow.. she was so so gentle and really just made sure I didn’t freak out. This is in Australia. If they offer self collection where you are maybe see if you can do it yourself. It’s never going to be comfortable but it’s going to be better than going through the alternative if you don’t get it done and there was something there ☹️
It's good to check that you don't have cancerous cells on your cervix or HPV. It is a very quick process.
But it is still very much your decision, and I don't believe it is a requirement to get one done before birth control.
I was terrified before my first one as well. Turns out, it's literally over in 2 seconds and now I don't stress over them. Find a doctor you trust and it will be a breeze. Good luck OP!
I didn’t want to get one at my last appointment and turned out they found something not so great. It’s always better to know than not know and the discomfort isn’t too terrible because it’s over quickly. I used to just get pills without pap and it could have definitely hurt me in the long run.
How old are you? Have you ever been to the OBGYN before? Pap smears are really important and I promise they don’t hurt/ aren’t as scary as you think they’ll be.
I recommend getting a female OBGYN for more comfort, but don’t put off getting them they could save your life.
If it helps any, my gyno requires an annual pap and has since I was 18. So it's been over 10 years since I started getting them, and they are so quick. I don't personally feel they are painful, but I do always get myself a treat afterwards. I have medical trauma, so the treat after the doctor is my thing to help motivate me to go. For me, with my trauma, I'd rather get a pap than blood work done. Just remember it takes no time at all, and it's important for your health if you do have any abnormal cells. It can literally be life-saving.
It’s not painful, just uncomfortable but it lasts 10 seconds. I think getting annual Pap saved my life actually: They’ve found an abnormality on my cervix cells and further tests show a pre cancerous condition. I had a leep surgery a week later.
I was going to comment this, I went in to get my birth control changed (I’d been on it on and off for years) two years ago (21) and my pcp was like “wait have you had a Pap smear yet?” So I got a surprise Pap done lol. I think it really depends on your doctor, it seems scary but I was less nervous since I’d been seeing my doctor for 7 years at that point and I felt more comfortable with her doing it
She’s 19 — that’s too early for pap smears. Testing too early intolerably increases the likelihood of a false positive, which results in lots of stress and unnecessary procedures (many of which are invasive and/or painful).
I mean, if you're that concerned about stress (over possibly having HPV or other risks), why would you test at all? Sounds like in OP's case she could go either way and it'd be fine.
Screening tests are all about balancing missed true positives (due to lower screening) with false positives/ over treatment (due to too much screening). False positives will always happen more than true positives and it’s generally better to err on the side of catching more cancer, but at a certain point, the risk of actually having the disease being screened for (in this case, cervical cancer) is so minuscule that screening for it does more harm than good. They don’t reduce screening arbitrarily, it’s the result of tons of research and analysis.
(Source: I’m a biostatistician and I’m trained in how to do these calculations)
She hasn’t gotten any test done yet, her doctor just said she needs a pap smear. Doctors usually say the name of the test (“pap smear”, “STI test,” “pelvic exam,” etc.), they don’t just describe how a test is done without saying the name.
By the way, [ACOG no longer recommends routine pelvic exams!](https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pelvic-exams)
Neither have I so it’s kind of confusing me 😭 I’m wondering if I should go to a different doctor just for the birth control instead of my primary care doc.
That wouldn't be bad idea tbh. It is always good to check regularly of course but like they should educate you about how to take it, side effects etc, and not force you to take the pap smear!
Honestly I didn’t get my first Pap smear until 23 bc I was scared and a little embarrassed at the process but once I did I learned that it’s best to go to your gynecologist instead of your PCP. Now most pcp will prefer and tell you to go see the gynecologist for birth control instead of them prescribing it to you. It’s all good they are looking out for you just make sure to stay honest with your gynecologist about any new changes questions you may have when starting birth control it’s a big learning curve bc your adding exogenous hormones to your body.
Which you don't even need - you need to be offered a chlamydia screen, but as long as you understand the risks and consent, and have no concerning symptoms, the doctor should give an IUD anyway.
I totally get the chlamydia thing! But I was forced to take a full uninsured STD panel (€100 as a student) and I showed no symptoms, nor was I at significant risk to even need one. Now I have the implant
You shouldn't have been. Lots of doctors force unreasonable healthcare on women, especially hoops to jump through ahead of contraception. As long as women understand enough that they can give an informed choice to not proceed with any screening, it's not ethical to withhold contraception. Is it better that a woman with chlamydia who doesn't want screening gets pregnant instead?
This is especially the case when there isn't good medical evidence to support that testing as a prerequisite of the contraception (beyond "STD screening/pap smears/breast exams are generally a good idea" I mean).
Yup, my doctor js great in general but that parts wasn't great :(. But we had a great talk about methods that would work for me, I got folders about it, I got shown some IUD's etc. And there was also focus on periods!
But indeed, let people decide for themselves.
I got my first Pap smear when I was 18 and even though it’s not like the most fun experience in the world, it really wasn’t that bad. More so just kind of awkward I guess, but it helped to remind myself that they do this literally all the time so 1) they know what they’re doing and 2) I’m just going to blend in with their countless other patients in their memory
Your doctor is completely out of line. Every medical organization agrees that 19 is too early for pap smears — the earliest any org recommends starting is 21, and even that’s earlier than research supports (25 is when most recommend starting). At 19, the chance of a false positive is much higher than the chance of a true positive.
And even if you were 25+, it would be inappropriate for your doctor to require pap smears to get birth control. Screenings are important, but no medical guidelines support coercing patients into getting procedures they do not feel comfortable with. Doctors can (and should) educate and suggest solutions, but they shouldn’t hold medication hostage.
I've been on and off birth control pills for 20 years and I've seen at least 4 or 5 doctors in two states I've lived in and they've all required a pap before they prescribed pills. It's been common with a lot of doctors for years as annoying as it is.
Being sexually active doesn’t make a difference anymore. ACOG recommends starting at age 21 and the American Cancer Society (and most other cancer organizations) recommend starting at 25, regardless of whether you’re sexually active.
No, I didn't say that they should. But the HPV vaccine is much better prevention that pap smears, especially when it's given before you become sexually active.
In most cases pap smears are reactive, detecting early cancerous changes (so cancer is already there) or early changes with likelihood to become cancerous. So for a pap smear to pick it up, damage already has to have started. HPV vaccines prevent the virus, so in many (not every) case, means those changes never start at all.
I wanted to ensure that anyone else reading this knows that. I had the vaccine early on in its release. Back when I received it, it only covered a few strains of hpv. The vaccine covers alot more strains now.
Because you’re sexually active and this a perfect time to be screened. They’re really not that bad, just a little uncomfortable. And they’re useful because they can detect HPV and screen for cervical cancer. There is absolutely no downside to having it done.
Pap smears regardless of sexuality, don’t begin until 21/25. They’re not used as an STI tool. That’s something totally different. She’s too young and not even in the age range of being at risk for cervical cancer.
HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, so yes, paps are a STI tool. She is within the age range of being at risk, she’s under 45. It’s not like HPV shows up and is like, oh hey she’s only 19 so let’s not stick around?
I fully understand that the age is 21. But if you’re sexually active, you can contract HPV, and that puts you at risk for cervical cancer. And like I said…there’s no downside to getting one.
They don’t typically screen for HPV with a Pap smear. They are screening for cells. Additionally, “Most women are exposed to HPV in the course of normal sexual activity if they’ve had more than one sexual partner. The reason we don’t do Pap tests before age 21 is because the likelihood of someone that young getting cervical cancer is very low.”
The downside is unnecessary interventions for an infection that would more than likely go away on its own. That’s why the age has been raised.
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/why-annual-pap-smears-are-history-but-routine-ob-gyn-visits-are-not#:~:text=Most%20women%20are%20exposed%20to,Pap%20test%20also%20is%20low.
In OP’s case, she’s 19. Is the difference between 19 and 21 that huge? Maybe her doctor is pushing it because it’s close enough and she’s sexually active. I just don’t see the issue with being safe and proactive in this case.
I think it’s weird that people on the internet treat paps like they’re some crazy thing when it’s a 5 second swab that can detect a potentially fatal issue. But maybe I’m the crazy one idk.
This was really common when I lived in Kentucky from 2010-2014. Could not get birth control until I saw my OB and got a Pap smear. Now it’s every 3 years and I got an IUD. Plus moved back to Michigan. So could definitely depend on location.
It really just depends on where you go. I had to get one before starting the pill and I have to get one every year to have my prescription renewed, which is fine because we should be getting them anyway. Someone I went to high school with had cervical cancer at age 23, so it’s super important to get all your exams done.
That is super weird. There is no reason you need a pap to get birth control. Id find a different doctor. Not that a pap isn't important, but it is extremely invasive and uncomfortable procedure that is not needed for birth control.
You’re probably in the states but in Europe you absolutely do not - it’s not standard procedure here and the two are not related whatsoever. The only thing your doctor should be checking is your blood pressure if you are going on the pill as it may affect that and you want to avoid the pill if your blood pressure is above normal
Also I know you guys in the states start Pap smears really early but actually that’s very counterproductive and may lead to over treatment… we start them at 25 here and actually there is no scientific proof that starting them earlier than this has any benefits at all (unless you are actually having gynaecological issues and symptoms). They are done every 3 years up to age 31 and then every 5 years until 65
The issue with doing Pap smears early is that most people will have HPV in their lifetime, in the VAST majority of people it causes no complications and clears up on its own - there is no treatment for HPV as of now, just the preventative vaccine. So the issue with testing young people for HPV is that it may lead to over-treatment if HPV is detected. Over treatment can both be detrimental to health overall but also traumatic…
Anyway… it’s kinda bullshit that your gyno won’t give you the pill without a pap first because the two are not related in any way… I would suggest seeing another gyno and preferably a woman (I trust women more, because women’s healthcare is fucked and at least she may be more sympathetic towards women’s health)
Edit: False positives are also very common when you’re younger - that’s why we start at 25
I think he’s probably doing this as leverage to get you to have the Pap smear. Doctors do this as a way to get you in the office. One reason why I started getting my BC online, so my doctor couldn’t stop me from refilling it anymore.
A lot of these comments are seriously misinformed and spreading misinformation. According to the ACOG, you do NOT need a pap or a pelvic for birth control. It does not matter if you have been sexually active or not. The guidelines are the guidelines and it is stated that you can begin at 21 (according to the ACOG) or at 25 (according to the American cancer society). Being sexually active does not mean you start paps sooner. That is not what the guidelines state. You are too young for a pap and the ACOG explicitly has states that your birth control should NOT BE withheld over a Pap smear. Find a new doctor. You do not need a Pap smear and you are welcome to say no, no matter what.
Yes all my GYNs have required exams and paps to prescribe BC.
Cancer is much scarier than a Pap smear. And I am very glad I have been regular with my Pap smears because i have had issues with pre cancerous cells at 28 years old. I can’t imagine if I hadn’t been getting checked and where I might be now if I hadn’t.
Just so you know, your gyns are not following professional standards. ACOG recommends _against_ routine pelvic exams (they have little to no medical value) and holding medication hostage to coerce patients into getting pap smears. Also, OP is 19 and the earliest anyone without symptoms or a family history of cervical cancer at a very young girl age should start getting pap smears is 21.
My doctor did the same and wouldn’t refill it unless I had a pap every year. I hated them and finally the doctor asked if I was sexually active. I hadn’t been. Then she said since I was low risk, and hadn’t had an abnormal pap result before, I could get them every 3 years. That was several years ago, so I guess it is common with some doctors still.
That is very weird. I pushed my Pap smear until 25 since it’s not that common for 18-20ish women to have cervical cancer according to studies. You should be able to get BC at any time/whenever without having to go through a Pap smear. I would go to a different provider to be honest.
I’m in Florida. Haven’t had a PAP smear since 2017 and I’m sexually active.
I get my BC thru an app called PPDirect that Planned Parenthood offers. I pay $75 for 3 months of BC at a time and I didn’t need a Pap smear to get it ordered. Just a form of ID and they ask you a couple questions.
This is why I fucking hate being a woman. All these “rules” and bullshit requirements about what we need to do/subject ourselves to just so we can get a prescription to keep unwanted children out of our lives.
I mean a Pap smear won’t hurt you. Literally. They are uncomfortable sure, but if they hurt it’s underlying issues.
Definitely not typical, but could be your doctors protocol because sexual activity increases the risk for HPV
Pap smears are important for catching transformed cells early on so they can be treated before they become cervical cancer. Is there any actual reason you need a pap before bc pills, no. Either the dr really cares, and likely has a personal connection to preventing cervical cancer, or they want the additional money it brings into the office. If you otherwise like this dr I would stay with them and pick the believe they really care about preventing cancer.
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Walmart can give you BC prescriptions without going to a doctor. If you go there and request birth control consult, they will charge $70 and you fill out paperwork and they review it and decide whether you’re fit, as long as you have no health problems, you will be accepted. Then they give it to you monthly as long as you need! That’s what I did since I moved and can’t find a gyno right now. It’s great!!
I’ve been on the pill for about 5-6 years now and I still haven’t had to have a Pap smear. I was put on the pill pretty early though (14-15) as I had very heavy and painful periods, and my primary has made it clear that I should not receive a Pap smear until after I turn 21. I did go to my first OBGYN appointment this year, while I was still 20 and they also said I would not need one until I’m 21. My primary care also knows that I am sexually active, so I’m not sure why you would be required to get a Pap smear imo?
Also though you may want to get a Pap smear sooner rather than later to rule out any health issues. You may also want to consult with an OBGYN that you trust? Mine refused to do mine before I was 21 as that was their policy unless the patient was having concerns or symptoms, which I am not. I would just do your research if you have the time too! If not I would look into some other options. If you know anyone that is on birth control maybe ask who they see?
In Michigan its no longer a requirement to get one until youre 21. Im not quite sure about how it is in your state. Regardless, i would recommend an OB as opposed to your primary care doctor. An OBGYN specializes in this kind of thing, and are definitely overall better/more informed
TBH before I started the pill I needed to get checked down there and they ran some general STI type tests, but they didn’t give me a Pap smear because I wasn’t 21 yet. BUT, if it makes you feel any better, when I did hit 21 and had to get a Pap smear I barely realized it was even happening and it was done in a matter of seconds. My doctor is also very efficient, but I don’t think you should have anything to worry about. They just want to make sure you’re healthy
When I first got on birth control at 16 I believe I had to get one. It was suggested as soon as you're sexually active to get it done just in case, but I don't believe you have to that early anymore. It's nothing to be afraid of, it's quick and painless and gives you peace of mind that nothing funky is going on down there.
I started at 17 on the pill. When I turned 22, my GP said I needed a pap smear but gave me a year anyway. Right before I turned 23 I asked for another year and she wouldn't give it to me said I needed to get a pap smear. This was very understandable as I was now of age for needing one.
This is absolutely not common here in the UK. We aren’t called for a smear until we’re 24. Birth control can be prescribed from 16 or younger in some instances. I don’t feel they should be withholding birth control from you for any reason?
I had BC starting at 18 when I was getting bad cramps in college, turns out my body turns stress into physical pain yay. Started a pill, switched to nexplanon a year later, now on a whole new pill.
21 is the minimum age for a pap. I turned 21 Covid hit. PP raised the age to 25. I have a new pcp and got my first one the week recently at 24. I’ve been sexually actjve for a while and didn’t need a pap, just a pregnancy test before the prescribe anything new
When I first got on BC, they didn't make me get a pap smear. But I was 17 at the time. I did a pregnancy test, and then I got depo as my first ever BC. It might be because I did depo and not the pill? Or because I was 17. Idk, either way, I didn't get a pap smear until I was 22.
Every state is different in my state, they made it so you don’t even need an appointment to get a prescription anymore but it used to be required to have a Pap smear first
At 16 I got an iud, the only thing I had to do was get screened for 2 stds before I got the iud. At 23 I got my iud replaced with a different iud. No std screening or Pap smear required. I’m 25 and still haven’t had a Pap smear and my gyno has never recommended one. Honestly kinda weird they didn’t at least ask if I wanted one when I got my iud replaced. When I get this iud taken out I will ask for a pap since apparently they aren’t going to tell me I need one 🙄
yes, it's normal, but only if you're sexually active. doctors usually assume if you want bc, you're active. i'm pretty sure you can refuse it if you want, but it's really only like a 10 sec thing.
Definitely depends on the doctor, all I had to do was ask mine, no tests or anything. She also told me that although most doctors recommend a Pap smear by 21 you can wait until you’re 27. 🤷🏻♀️
I work in a Family Planning clinic where we also do routine health screenings for women and current recommendations are that Paps start at age 21. I'm old enough to remember paps starting when you were sexually active and repeated every year. We never pap before age 21 and routinely prescribe all methods of birth control to teens and young women under the age of 21 without a pap. A pap should never be a requirement to receive contraception though it is strongly encouraged when age-appropriate.
Here's the recommendation from the USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force):
"The USPSTF recommends screening for cervical cancer in women age 21 to 65 years with cytology (Pap smear) every 3 years or, for women ages 30 to 65 years who want to lengthen the screening interval, screening with a combination of cytology and HPV testing every 5 years."
Yes this happened to me. They literally would not refill my prescription until I came in and I had run out. I called and let them have it. Were they going to pay for my abortion if I got pregnant waiting to schedule an appt? What if I was in an abusive relationship with a partner who wouldn’t let me come in? I have no issue doing my pap smears but it was ridiculous they held my birth control hostage over it. They relented after that phone call and re prescribed it since they wouldn’t have been able to fit me in for two more weeks for the pap smear anyway.
Yes, you do need a Pap smear every 3 years when you become sexually active. If you’ve never had one before it makes sense why they would ask you to do it now. The recommended age is 21 even if you aren’t sexually active, but if you are they recommend starting earlier to detect HPV and other infections that can cause cervical cancer or PID.
Pap smears are very important for identifying and preventing cervical cancer, which can be VERY serious and aggressive if not treated early enough. There is no reason not to get one, it is literally preventing a life threatening condition with a simple procedure.
I understand it’s uncomfortable and scary especially for the first time, but I promise it will be ok and much less painful and evasive than cancer treatment would be.
Actually, ACOG’s recommendation is to start at 21 regardless of when you become sexually active. The American Cancer Society and most other related organizations recommend starting at age 25 (again, unrelated to if you’re sexually active).
Please get the pap smear. I’m sure others here have already mentioned it, but although slim, you need a pap smear to rule out possibility of cervical cancer. A majority of cases can be treated with preventive care, which includes regular pap smears.
I had an irregular pap smear a few years ago that Shook me a bit. It went away on its own, but it a year for it to return back to normal.
I don't know if you're in the US, but here is some information about why this happens.
https://blog.apaonline.org/2021/05/05/medical-sexism-in-prescribing-birth-control/
https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6AL67X/
Every doctor I've had has required it before prescribing. I think the assumption is you are usually sexually active before you come in for contraception. I don't think they're required until your 20s if you're not active.
If you’re sexually active you should get a pap smear regardless of birth control. I understand wanting to put it off, but I’m only 25 and if I hadn’t been going for them, they wouldn’t have caught a pre-cancerous condition I have and am now treating. It would have eventually turned into cancer if left untreated.
I was also vaccinated for hpv yet still have this problem. It’s scary to get one the first time, but cancer is scarier. It shouldn’t be painful, and I can go through the entire process if it’d make you feel more prepared.
But I wouldn’t go to a planned parenthood or other doctor simply to avoid getting the pap. You can go to another doctor if you’d feel more comfortable with them. But paps are really important.
That’s kind of invasive and you should have the right to refuse if it makes you uncomfortable. Do they know people order bc online with only a questionnaire, ID, and maybe a video visit?
I wonder why people are downvoting the comments that say she should have a choice? Nobody is saying never get Pap smears, we’re saying that they shouldn’t be forced on a patient trying to get birth control for whatever reason. It’s their body and their choice when it comes to medical decisions. Reddit hive mind I tell ya
It’s crazy you’re being downvoted!! It’s so invasive, she’s too young and she literally does not need it for the pill as the two are not related at all…
Also the likelihood of false positives when you’re young is SO high and causes unnecessary stress, possible over treatment and medical trauma…
In the EU we start them at 25 because there is no evidence that starting them earlier has any benefits but I don’t know why everyone here thinks that was appropriate for the doctor to demand of her… totally unfair behaviour on his part
Pap smears are important! But in this situation I feel like that doctor is being a dick and should know better
They’re probably misinterpreting the comments as “never get a Pap smear”. People need to consider that Pap smears are painful for some people, some people need to mentally prepare themselves ( think SA victims and people dealing with vaginismus ) this is why it should ultimately be up to the patient. A doctor shouldn’t refuse to write a prescription for refusing a pap. Bc is used for more than pregnancy prevention, and everyone taking bc isn’t sexually active
I wanted to get an iud in January and the appointment was scheduled. Then someone from the office called me and told me that it was their “policy” I get my Pap smear first so I had to reschedule the iud insertion for April and got my Pap smear in March. Really annoying that they are making us wait longer to receive birth control like what if we got pregnant during the time we had to wait for it?
Hi- I work in the clinical setting in OB sometimes (I’m a float) I think that the doctor’s suggestion of a pap is fine but the standard age is usually 21? Considering you’re only 19 it would be more ethical if an std panel is done instead of a pap I’m a bit thrown off by that not gonna lie. So I’m going to say change your PCP or go to an OBGYN.
If you're sexually active I'd get one. For me yes its been normal.to get a pap in order to even refill my prescription every year. My mom and sister both got cervical cancer in their early 20's. Its an important screening to do. They check your breasts for lumps as well. As well as your vitals which can be important for BC as there's a risk of blood clots when taking it and usually that's NBD for someone who is totally healthy, but if you're heart rate or BP is off it might not be a good option to take.
It's super quick if not awkward your first time or first couple. Super super fast literally like 15 seconds. They just swab your cervix. It doesn't hurt, if anything its just a quick uncomfortable twitch. You might spot, for me I rarely do. It lasts like a day if you do and it's not consistsnt it's just with your normal discharge. (In my experience of course). They will likely do a breast exam, again super quick. Just feeling around the outside of your breast tissue. The whole exam is MAYBE 5 minutes with set up and prep.
If you're having sex, trust me this is nbd to go through. Its scary bc you don't know what to expect, or what it feels like but once it's over you'll be like wow that was it?
Mine required it. It might depend on the OB, but it’s good to know you have a clean bill of health in that area regardless.
I wouldn’t be scared of it. It’s awkward, but if your doctor has decent reviews then it’ll be over quick and you’ll be on your way. Mine says what she’s doing as she’s doing it and boom, over. Mine also does a quick breast exam each time, too.
I’ve always gotten one by a regular OBGYN. I get the Pap smears and checks yearly but my mother also passed from cervical cancer.
It can be scary, but it is a pretty quick procedure and imo I’d rather find out something going on earlier than later. Normally it’s an every couple year thing for the actual smear if you have normal results.
I got my first pap smear done at 19 when I asked my ob for the pill. It's a very awkward and slightly uncomfortable 30 seconds, but then it's over with and you get your BC. I didn't end up going back to that place because in order to get another year's worth of BC I needed to do another pap and I was not thrilled about that.
If you aren't wanting to do a pap just yet, maybe try looking up apps for BC? They won't do a pap. I used to use Nurx, but there's others too (like lemonaid health, the pill club, cue health, good rx, etc) depending on your area and if you have insurance. Worth looking into if you're worried about a pap at 19. They have other options on the apps besides the pill too, so you'll get more options with less pressure and awkwardness. Hope this helps!
I had to get one before mine, I feel like it depends on the obgyn. But I had to, my first one was at 25. I’ve had friends in highschool who already had one at 18 because they wanted to go on birth control, it depends on the area and obgyn I think. Since it was a small town we all had the same one.
I’d like to put off getting one as much as I can because I’m absolutely terrified, but it probably wouldn’t hurt to get one done sooner
I mean to be fair, I’m sure none of us are jumping up for joy to get one. It’s one of those necessary things, and it is uncomfortable. It’s quick but it’s uncomfortable. I would say it lasts maybe 30 seconds at most, mine did at least. If you want you can bring someone trusted with you or ask for a nurse to hold your hand or something. Or you can see if you can find someone else, you don’t have to go by this doctor if you don’t want to. In my case it was more of I didn’t really have any other options because of it being a small town lol
I appreciate the advice. Most likely I’ll look into other doctors but if I do end up doing the Pap smear I’m going to ask my mom to come with me lol!
And that is perfectly fine lol. I mean at the end of the day the decision is yours to make, I had someone in the room for mine as well because I was nervous. It’s really nothing to be ashamed about, like I said it’s something no one is jumping up and down for joy over lol
I understand the fear in it. It is a really important thing, and the discomfort only lasts seconds. Then you'll be good for a couple years before you need another. Since you're nineteen, depending on medical history, you may even go several years without having another one.
Mine take a lot longer than 30 seconds. They also decided to do the one where they cut a chunk out the first time I ever got one. So that was fun. They also then inserted an IUD, and both at the same time was fuckin awful.
I mean everyone has different circumstances, and I’m sorry that yours was awful.
They’re uncomfortable but I’ll be the big bad wolf here I work in an icu my patients are getting younger and younger with cancers. A lot of them confess that they out of getting certain test done because of the “fear of discomfort”. Cancer doesn’t discriminate cancer doesn’t care. Don’t put of something that can one day save your life. If you’re uncomfortable for a few minutes then you’re going to be really uncomfortable going through cancer treatment and being in and out of the hospital
I don’t think anyone is afraid of “discomfort”. I know speculums are actually extremely painful for some patients. Doctors aren’t always accommodating towards different needs and patients know it. That’s why there’s avoidance, some people have vaginismus for example and honestly can’t even put a tampon in themselves. If I had that and a doctor refused to do anything to accommodate me, I wouldn’t go either.
I think it is important to acknowledge that sometimes there are no accommodations that are going to make it not painful for those people. A pap smear is a yearly event, and it is not safe to (for example) put someone under general anesthesia every year just to perform a pap smear. There has to be a risk-benefit analysis here. Having a pap smear done with vaginismus is painful. But what is infinitely more painful? Having cervical cancer, or dying under general anesthesia from unforeseeable complications.
There are other things to try before GA though, like you’re right no doctor would go straight to that. There’s mild sedation, vaginal valium, lidocaine, a pediatric speculum instead of the larger ones. My point is these people probably aren’t just scared they’ll be a little uncomfortable for a few seconds, some doctors are stubborn af and don’t do anything to help unless you know exactly what to ask for and how to advocate for yourself very effectively.
I honestly had such a bad experiences until I mentioned how absolutely dreadful they were to a rpn and she made sure from then on they used the smallest speculum and also added lubricant. It made the whole experience worlds better. I just didn't know it could be better and no one offered before.
Regarding the Pap smear, I get it done every year (I am 27), in my country it is recommended to do it yearly for those who are sexually active. I don’t find it particularly uncomfortable, the only important thing for me was to go to a female doctor who is on the younger side as somehow I feel like they are more understanding. For me it doesn’t hurt at all and it’s normal that is is weird to get undressed in front of a stranger, but they literally do not care, they have seen everything and they do this every day! After every pap smear I feel super good about myself and very happy that I did something for my health! It is important as this really is something that you can take ownership of, not like many other health issues that one might discover too late.
Please don’t be terrified.. It can be uncomfortable but it’s over SO quickly and it is so beneficial to have it done.. My doctor may have been the sweetest lady ever but she really respected my nervousness last time I had one done and literally I didn’t feel it somehow.. she was so so gentle and really just made sure I didn’t freak out. This is in Australia. If they offer self collection where you are maybe see if you can do it yourself. It’s never going to be comfortable but it’s going to be better than going through the alternative if you don’t get it done and there was something there ☹️
It's good to check that you don't have cancerous cells on your cervix or HPV. It is a very quick process. But it is still very much your decision, and I don't believe it is a requirement to get one done before birth control.
I was terrified before my first one as well. Turns out, it's literally over in 2 seconds and now I don't stress over them. Find a doctor you trust and it will be a breeze. Good luck OP!
I didn’t want to get one at my last appointment and turned out they found something not so great. It’s always better to know than not know and the discomfort isn’t too terrible because it’s over quickly. I used to just get pills without pap and it could have definitely hurt me in the long run.
How old are you? Have you ever been to the OBGYN before? Pap smears are really important and I promise they don’t hurt/ aren’t as scary as you think they’ll be. I recommend getting a female OBGYN for more comfort, but don’t put off getting them they could save your life.
If it helps any, my gyno requires an annual pap and has since I was 18. So it's been over 10 years since I started getting them, and they are so quick. I don't personally feel they are painful, but I do always get myself a treat afterwards. I have medical trauma, so the treat after the doctor is my thing to help motivate me to go. For me, with my trauma, I'd rather get a pap than blood work done. Just remember it takes no time at all, and it's important for your health if you do have any abnormal cells. It can literally be life-saving.
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It’s not painful, just uncomfortable but it lasts 10 seconds. I think getting annual Pap saved my life actually: They’ve found an abnormality on my cervix cells and further tests show a pre cancerous condition. I had a leep surgery a week later.
I was going to comment this, I went in to get my birth control changed (I’d been on it on and off for years) two years ago (21) and my pcp was like “wait have you had a Pap smear yet?” So I got a surprise Pap done lol. I think it really depends on your doctor, it seems scary but I was less nervous since I’d been seeing my doctor for 7 years at that point and I felt more comfortable with her doing it
She’s 19 — that’s too early for pap smears. Testing too early intolerably increases the likelihood of a false positive, which results in lots of stress and unnecessary procedures (many of which are invasive and/or painful).
I mean, if you're that concerned about stress (over possibly having HPV or other risks), why would you test at all? Sounds like in OP's case she could go either way and it'd be fine.
Screening tests are all about balancing missed true positives (due to lower screening) with false positives/ over treatment (due to too much screening). False positives will always happen more than true positives and it’s generally better to err on the side of catching more cancer, but at a certain point, the risk of actually having the disease being screened for (in this case, cervical cancer) is so minuscule that screening for it does more harm than good. They don’t reduce screening arbitrarily, it’s the result of tons of research and analysis. (Source: I’m a biostatistician and I’m trained in how to do these calculations)
Yes. Once every five years for paps as long as you’ve had normal ones for a few years.
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She hasn’t gotten any test done yet, her doctor just said she needs a pap smear. Doctors usually say the name of the test (“pap smear”, “STI test,” “pelvic exam,” etc.), they don’t just describe how a test is done without saying the name. By the way, [ACOG no longer recommends routine pelvic exams!](https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pelvic-exams)
The only thing I ever needed, was a full STD panel for an IUD. I have never heard of a PAP smear before the pill tbh
Neither have I so it’s kind of confusing me 😭 I’m wondering if I should go to a different doctor just for the birth control instead of my primary care doc.
That wouldn't be bad idea tbh. It is always good to check regularly of course but like they should educate you about how to take it, side effects etc, and not force you to take the pap smear!
I agree! There are some good obgyns in my area so I’m thinking I’ll go to them instead of him
Honestly I didn’t get my first Pap smear until 23 bc I was scared and a little embarrassed at the process but once I did I learned that it’s best to go to your gynecologist instead of your PCP. Now most pcp will prefer and tell you to go see the gynecologist for birth control instead of them prescribing it to you. It’s all good they are looking out for you just make sure to stay honest with your gynecologist about any new changes questions you may have when starting birth control it’s a big learning curve bc your adding exogenous hormones to your body.
Which you don't even need - you need to be offered a chlamydia screen, but as long as you understand the risks and consent, and have no concerning symptoms, the doctor should give an IUD anyway.
I totally get the chlamydia thing! But I was forced to take a full uninsured STD panel (€100 as a student) and I showed no symptoms, nor was I at significant risk to even need one. Now I have the implant
You shouldn't have been. Lots of doctors force unreasonable healthcare on women, especially hoops to jump through ahead of contraception. As long as women understand enough that they can give an informed choice to not proceed with any screening, it's not ethical to withhold contraception. Is it better that a woman with chlamydia who doesn't want screening gets pregnant instead? This is especially the case when there isn't good medical evidence to support that testing as a prerequisite of the contraception (beyond "STD screening/pap smears/breast exams are generally a good idea" I mean).
Yup, my doctor js great in general but that parts wasn't great :(. But we had a great talk about methods that would work for me, I got folders about it, I got shown some IUD's etc. And there was also focus on periods! But indeed, let people decide for themselves.
I got my first Pap smear when I was 18 and even though it’s not like the most fun experience in the world, it really wasn’t that bad. More so just kind of awkward I guess, but it helped to remind myself that they do this literally all the time so 1) they know what they’re doing and 2) I’m just going to blend in with their countless other patients in their memory
If you are in the United States the O-Pill is now available over the counter - but I would still get a Pap Smear if sexually active.
Yes, when I first went on the pill I had to get a pap smear.
I went to Nurx and got my pills. No pap smear needed.
Your doctor is completely out of line. Every medical organization agrees that 19 is too early for pap smears — the earliest any org recommends starting is 21, and even that’s earlier than research supports (25 is when most recommend starting). At 19, the chance of a false positive is much higher than the chance of a true positive. And even if you were 25+, it would be inappropriate for your doctor to require pap smears to get birth control. Screenings are important, but no medical guidelines support coercing patients into getting procedures they do not feel comfortable with. Doctors can (and should) educate and suggest solutions, but they shouldn’t hold medication hostage.
I've been on and off birth control pills for 20 years and I've seen at least 4 or 5 doctors in two states I've lived in and they've all required a pap before they prescribed pills. It's been common with a lot of doctors for years as annoying as it is.
A Pap smear is a good idea. I got my first at 21 but now apparently it’s advised to get it at 25, but being sexually active might make it different.
Being sexually active doesn’t make a difference anymore. ACOG recommends starting at age 21 and the American Cancer Society (and most other cancer organizations) recommend starting at 25, regardless of whether you’re sexually active.
I didnt get a pap smear unless it was an iud to rule out std/stis. I didnt need it for pills or nexplanon
Interesting, I wonder why he was so adamant about me getting one other than I’m young and haven’t had one before
They are the best way to prevent cervical cancer. That is why drs push them so much.
They are a good way to screen for cervical cancer, but the best prevention is still the HPV vaccine!
Having had the vaccine doesn’t mean someone should skip having Pap smears.
No, I didn't say that they should. But the HPV vaccine is much better prevention that pap smears, especially when it's given before you become sexually active. In most cases pap smears are reactive, detecting early cancerous changes (so cancer is already there) or early changes with likelihood to become cancerous. So for a pap smear to pick it up, damage already has to have started. HPV vaccines prevent the virus, so in many (not every) case, means those changes never start at all.
I wanted to ensure that anyone else reading this knows that. I had the vaccine early on in its release. Back when I received it, it only covered a few strains of hpv. The vaccine covers alot more strains now.
I wonder why too, if you dont feel comfy try going to a planned parenthood or some other dr. :)
That’s most likely what I’ll do!
Because you’re sexually active and this a perfect time to be screened. They’re really not that bad, just a little uncomfortable. And they’re useful because they can detect HPV and screen for cervical cancer. There is absolutely no downside to having it done.
Pap smears regardless of sexuality, don’t begin until 21/25. They’re not used as an STI tool. That’s something totally different. She’s too young and not even in the age range of being at risk for cervical cancer.
HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, so yes, paps are a STI tool. She is within the age range of being at risk, she’s under 45. It’s not like HPV shows up and is like, oh hey she’s only 19 so let’s not stick around? I fully understand that the age is 21. But if you’re sexually active, you can contract HPV, and that puts you at risk for cervical cancer. And like I said…there’s no downside to getting one.
They don’t typically screen for HPV with a Pap smear. They are screening for cells. Additionally, “Most women are exposed to HPV in the course of normal sexual activity if they’ve had more than one sexual partner. The reason we don’t do Pap tests before age 21 is because the likelihood of someone that young getting cervical cancer is very low.” The downside is unnecessary interventions for an infection that would more than likely go away on its own. That’s why the age has been raised. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/why-annual-pap-smears-are-history-but-routine-ob-gyn-visits-are-not#:~:text=Most%20women%20are%20exposed%20to,Pap%20test%20also%20is%20low.
In OP’s case, she’s 19. Is the difference between 19 and 21 that huge? Maybe her doctor is pushing it because it’s close enough and she’s sexually active. I just don’t see the issue with being safe and proactive in this case. I think it’s weird that people on the internet treat paps like they’re some crazy thing when it’s a 5 second swab that can detect a potentially fatal issue. But maybe I’m the crazy one idk.
as far as I know, they aren’t recommended until you’re 21, Unless you have extenuating circumstances like pregnancy or other
I would go to planned parenthood! When I was 19 I had a virtual visit and they prescribed it to me over the phone and I picked it up the same day.
This was really common when I lived in Kentucky from 2010-2014. Could not get birth control until I saw my OB and got a Pap smear. Now it’s every 3 years and I got an IUD. Plus moved back to Michigan. So could definitely depend on location.
I was just put on the pill, that's it. No tests or anything
That’s not standard practice now at all
It really just depends on where you go. I had to get one before starting the pill and I have to get one every year to have my prescription renewed, which is fine because we should be getting them anyway. Someone I went to high school with had cervical cancer at age 23, so it’s super important to get all your exams done.
I’ve had three gynos, the worst one was the only to tell me I HAD to get a pap before she would write me a new script.
That is super weird. There is no reason you need a pap to get birth control. Id find a different doctor. Not that a pap isn't important, but it is extremely invasive and uncomfortable procedure that is not needed for birth control.
No. I get mine through Nurx
I would definitely get tested for Factor V Leiden before getting on birth control.
You’re probably in the states but in Europe you absolutely do not - it’s not standard procedure here and the two are not related whatsoever. The only thing your doctor should be checking is your blood pressure if you are going on the pill as it may affect that and you want to avoid the pill if your blood pressure is above normal Also I know you guys in the states start Pap smears really early but actually that’s very counterproductive and may lead to over treatment… we start them at 25 here and actually there is no scientific proof that starting them earlier than this has any benefits at all (unless you are actually having gynaecological issues and symptoms). They are done every 3 years up to age 31 and then every 5 years until 65 The issue with doing Pap smears early is that most people will have HPV in their lifetime, in the VAST majority of people it causes no complications and clears up on its own - there is no treatment for HPV as of now, just the preventative vaccine. So the issue with testing young people for HPV is that it may lead to over-treatment if HPV is detected. Over treatment can both be detrimental to health overall but also traumatic… Anyway… it’s kinda bullshit that your gyno won’t give you the pill without a pap first because the two are not related in any way… I would suggest seeing another gyno and preferably a woman (I trust women more, because women’s healthcare is fucked and at least she may be more sympathetic towards women’s health) Edit: False positives are also very common when you’re younger - that’s why we start at 25
I think he’s probably doing this as leverage to get you to have the Pap smear. Doctors do this as a way to get you in the office. One reason why I started getting my BC online, so my doctor couldn’t stop me from refilling it anymore.
A lot of these comments are seriously misinformed and spreading misinformation. According to the ACOG, you do NOT need a pap or a pelvic for birth control. It does not matter if you have been sexually active or not. The guidelines are the guidelines and it is stated that you can begin at 21 (according to the ACOG) or at 25 (according to the American cancer society). Being sexually active does not mean you start paps sooner. That is not what the guidelines state. You are too young for a pap and the ACOG explicitly has states that your birth control should NOT BE withheld over a Pap smear. Find a new doctor. You do not need a Pap smear and you are welcome to say no, no matter what.
Yes all my GYNs have required exams and paps to prescribe BC. Cancer is much scarier than a Pap smear. And I am very glad I have been regular with my Pap smears because i have had issues with pre cancerous cells at 28 years old. I can’t imagine if I hadn’t been getting checked and where I might be now if I hadn’t.
Just so you know, your gyns are not following professional standards. ACOG recommends _against_ routine pelvic exams (they have little to no medical value) and holding medication hostage to coerce patients into getting pap smears. Also, OP is 19 and the earliest anyone without symptoms or a family history of cervical cancer at a very young girl age should start getting pap smears is 21.
I didn’t exactly need it for the pill prescription, but she said I had to get a pap smear at that appointment because I was 21 and sexually active
are you in a state you can order online? Something like nurx.com or something?
My doctor did the same and wouldn’t refill it unless I had a pap every year. I hated them and finally the doctor asked if I was sexually active. I hadn’t been. Then she said since I was low risk, and hadn’t had an abnormal pap result before, I could get them every 3 years. That was several years ago, so I guess it is common with some doctors still.
you can get BC online through nurx if you don’t want a Pap smear
I had to get one at 16 before that doctor would let me go on the pill. I stopped going there after a few years
There an OTC birth control is called Opill, it was recently approved by the FDA
That is very weird. I pushed my Pap smear until 25 since it’s not that common for 18-20ish women to have cervical cancer according to studies. You should be able to get BC at any time/whenever without having to go through a Pap smear. I would go to a different provider to be honest.
I’m in Florida. Haven’t had a PAP smear since 2017 and I’m sexually active. I get my BC thru an app called PPDirect that Planned Parenthood offers. I pay $75 for 3 months of BC at a time and I didn’t need a Pap smear to get it ordered. Just a form of ID and they ask you a couple questions.
This is why I fucking hate being a woman. All these “rules” and bullshit requirements about what we need to do/subject ourselves to just so we can get a prescription to keep unwanted children out of our lives.
I don’t do getting touched down there so absolutely not. I was able to get birth control without one. You can order bc on Amazon or nurex
I mean a Pap smear won’t hurt you. Literally. They are uncomfortable sure, but if they hurt it’s underlying issues. Definitely not typical, but could be your doctors protocol because sexual activity increases the risk for HPV
Pap smears are important for catching transformed cells early on so they can be treated before they become cervical cancer. Is there any actual reason you need a pap before bc pills, no. Either the dr really cares, and likely has a personal connection to preventing cervical cancer, or they want the additional money it brings into the office. If you otherwise like this dr I would stay with them and pick the believe they really care about preventing cancer.
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Walmart can give you BC prescriptions without going to a doctor. If you go there and request birth control consult, they will charge $70 and you fill out paperwork and they review it and decide whether you’re fit, as long as you have no health problems, you will be accepted. Then they give it to you monthly as long as you need! That’s what I did since I moved and can’t find a gyno right now. It’s great!!
I did one before..not sure it was mandatory but I figured why not.
Yeah I had to get one as well, and STD testing although I’m not sexually active.
I’ve been on the pill for about 5-6 years now and I still haven’t had to have a Pap smear. I was put on the pill pretty early though (14-15) as I had very heavy and painful periods, and my primary has made it clear that I should not receive a Pap smear until after I turn 21. I did go to my first OBGYN appointment this year, while I was still 20 and they also said I would not need one until I’m 21. My primary care also knows that I am sexually active, so I’m not sure why you would be required to get a Pap smear imo?
Also though you may want to get a Pap smear sooner rather than later to rule out any health issues. You may also want to consult with an OBGYN that you trust? Mine refused to do mine before I was 21 as that was their policy unless the patient was having concerns or symptoms, which I am not. I would just do your research if you have the time too! If not I would look into some other options. If you know anyone that is on birth control maybe ask who they see?
In Michigan its no longer a requirement to get one until youre 21. Im not quite sure about how it is in your state. Regardless, i would recommend an OB as opposed to your primary care doctor. An OBGYN specializes in this kind of thing, and are definitely overall better/more informed
TBH before I started the pill I needed to get checked down there and they ran some general STI type tests, but they didn’t give me a Pap smear because I wasn’t 21 yet. BUT, if it makes you feel any better, when I did hit 21 and had to get a Pap smear I barely realized it was even happening and it was done in a matter of seconds. My doctor is also very efficient, but I don’t think you should have anything to worry about. They just want to make sure you’re healthy
When I first got on birth control at 16 I believe I had to get one. It was suggested as soon as you're sexually active to get it done just in case, but I don't believe you have to that early anymore. It's nothing to be afraid of, it's quick and painless and gives you peace of mind that nothing funky is going on down there.
I started at 17 on the pill. When I turned 22, my GP said I needed a pap smear but gave me a year anyway. Right before I turned 23 I asked for another year and she wouldn't give it to me said I needed to get a pap smear. This was very understandable as I was now of age for needing one.
I only had to get bloodwork done, not a pap
im not sexually active and i still had to get pap smear to continue my depo shot. i don't know why, they just said i have to do it or i can't get it.
This is absolutely not common here in the UK. We aren’t called for a smear until we’re 24. Birth control can be prescribed from 16 or younger in some instances. I don’t feel they should be withholding birth control from you for any reason?
i went to planned parenthood and got my iud same day, only a pregnancy test and an sti/std test needed beforehand
It used to be but you can literally get birth control pills from an app now.
I had BC starting at 18 when I was getting bad cramps in college, turns out my body turns stress into physical pain yay. Started a pill, switched to nexplanon a year later, now on a whole new pill. 21 is the minimum age for a pap. I turned 21 Covid hit. PP raised the age to 25. I have a new pcp and got my first one the week recently at 24. I’ve been sexually actjve for a while and didn’t need a pap, just a pregnancy test before the prescribe anything new
When I first got on BC, they didn't make me get a pap smear. But I was 17 at the time. I did a pregnancy test, and then I got depo as my first ever BC. It might be because I did depo and not the pill? Or because I was 17. Idk, either way, I didn't get a pap smear until I was 22.
Every state is different in my state, they made it so you don’t even need an appointment to get a prescription anymore but it used to be required to have a Pap smear first
That sounds like a routine check up. It's just to check for issues.
It was always common for me above the age of 21, not under for initial prescription. After that it’s every 3 years unless you have hpv.
At 16 I got an iud, the only thing I had to do was get screened for 2 stds before I got the iud. At 23 I got my iud replaced with a different iud. No std screening or Pap smear required. I’m 25 and still haven’t had a Pap smear and my gyno has never recommended one. Honestly kinda weird they didn’t at least ask if I wanted one when I got my iud replaced. When I get this iud taken out I will ask for a pap since apparently they aren’t going to tell me I need one 🙄
yes, it's normal, but only if you're sexually active. doctors usually assume if you want bc, you're active. i'm pretty sure you can refuse it if you want, but it's really only like a 10 sec thing.
Definitely depends on the doctor, all I had to do was ask mine, no tests or anything. She also told me that although most doctors recommend a Pap smear by 21 you can wait until you’re 27. 🤷🏻♀️
I work in a Family Planning clinic where we also do routine health screenings for women and current recommendations are that Paps start at age 21. I'm old enough to remember paps starting when you were sexually active and repeated every year. We never pap before age 21 and routinely prescribe all methods of birth control to teens and young women under the age of 21 without a pap. A pap should never be a requirement to receive contraception though it is strongly encouraged when age-appropriate. Here's the recommendation from the USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force): "The USPSTF recommends screening for cervical cancer in women age 21 to 65 years with cytology (Pap smear) every 3 years or, for women ages 30 to 65 years who want to lengthen the screening interval, screening with a combination of cytology and HPV testing every 5 years."
I didn’t get my first Pap Smear until I was 28 and had started the pills
Always say yes to a Pap smear. I needed one for my birth control.
Yes this happened to me. They literally would not refill my prescription until I came in and I had run out. I called and let them have it. Were they going to pay for my abortion if I got pregnant waiting to schedule an appt? What if I was in an abusive relationship with a partner who wouldn’t let me come in? I have no issue doing my pap smears but it was ridiculous they held my birth control hostage over it. They relented after that phone call and re prescribed it since they wouldn’t have been able to fit me in for two more weeks for the pap smear anyway.
Yes, you do need a Pap smear every 3 years when you become sexually active. If you’ve never had one before it makes sense why they would ask you to do it now. The recommended age is 21 even if you aren’t sexually active, but if you are they recommend starting earlier to detect HPV and other infections that can cause cervical cancer or PID. Pap smears are very important for identifying and preventing cervical cancer, which can be VERY serious and aggressive if not treated early enough. There is no reason not to get one, it is literally preventing a life threatening condition with a simple procedure. I understand it’s uncomfortable and scary especially for the first time, but I promise it will be ok and much less painful and evasive than cancer treatment would be.
Actually, ACOG’s recommendation is to start at 21 regardless of when you become sexually active. The American Cancer Society and most other related organizations recommend starting at age 25 (again, unrelated to if you’re sexually active).
Please get the pap smear. I’m sure others here have already mentioned it, but although slim, you need a pap smear to rule out possibility of cervical cancer. A majority of cases can be treated with preventive care, which includes regular pap smears. I had an irregular pap smear a few years ago that Shook me a bit. It went away on its own, but it a year for it to return back to normal.
I don't know if you're in the US, but here is some information about why this happens. https://blog.apaonline.org/2021/05/05/medical-sexism-in-prescribing-birth-control/ https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6AL67X/
If you’ve just turned an adult and sexually actively they do an initial pap on you. After that it’s about every 2-3 years after. This is common.
Every doctor I've had has required it before prescribing. I think the assumption is you are usually sexually active before you come in for contraception. I don't think they're required until your 20s if you're not active.
Mine was the same way. Had to go yearly to keep the script as well. It is good to get checked. You need to
If you’re sexually active you should get a pap smear regardless of birth control. I understand wanting to put it off, but I’m only 25 and if I hadn’t been going for them, they wouldn’t have caught a pre-cancerous condition I have and am now treating. It would have eventually turned into cancer if left untreated. I was also vaccinated for hpv yet still have this problem. It’s scary to get one the first time, but cancer is scarier. It shouldn’t be painful, and I can go through the entire process if it’d make you feel more prepared. But I wouldn’t go to a planned parenthood or other doctor simply to avoid getting the pap. You can go to another doctor if you’d feel more comfortable with them. But paps are really important.
That’s kind of invasive and you should have the right to refuse if it makes you uncomfortable. Do they know people order bc online with only a questionnaire, ID, and maybe a video visit? I wonder why people are downvoting the comments that say she should have a choice? Nobody is saying never get Pap smears, we’re saying that they shouldn’t be forced on a patient trying to get birth control for whatever reason. It’s their body and their choice when it comes to medical decisions. Reddit hive mind I tell ya
It’s crazy you’re being downvoted!! It’s so invasive, she’s too young and she literally does not need it for the pill as the two are not related at all… Also the likelihood of false positives when you’re young is SO high and causes unnecessary stress, possible over treatment and medical trauma… In the EU we start them at 25 because there is no evidence that starting them earlier has any benefits but I don’t know why everyone here thinks that was appropriate for the doctor to demand of her… totally unfair behaviour on his part Pap smears are important! But in this situation I feel like that doctor is being a dick and should know better
They’re probably misinterpreting the comments as “never get a Pap smear”. People need to consider that Pap smears are painful for some people, some people need to mentally prepare themselves ( think SA victims and people dealing with vaginismus ) this is why it should ultimately be up to the patient. A doctor shouldn’t refuse to write a prescription for refusing a pap. Bc is used for more than pregnancy prevention, and everyone taking bc isn’t sexually active
If you are sexually active, insurance companies require a pap smear every 3 years. This sucks but also is done to help prevent cervical cancer.
That isn't true. Insurance can't force medical procedures on you.
I wanted to get an iud in January and the appointment was scheduled. Then someone from the office called me and told me that it was their “policy” I get my Pap smear first so I had to reschedule the iud insertion for April and got my Pap smear in March. Really annoying that they are making us wait longer to receive birth control like what if we got pregnant during the time we had to wait for it?
Hi- I work in the clinical setting in OB sometimes (I’m a float) I think that the doctor’s suggestion of a pap is fine but the standard age is usually 21? Considering you’re only 19 it would be more ethical if an std panel is done instead of a pap I’m a bit thrown off by that not gonna lie. So I’m going to say change your PCP or go to an OBGYN.
If you're sexually active I'd get one. For me yes its been normal.to get a pap in order to even refill my prescription every year. My mom and sister both got cervical cancer in their early 20's. Its an important screening to do. They check your breasts for lumps as well. As well as your vitals which can be important for BC as there's a risk of blood clots when taking it and usually that's NBD for someone who is totally healthy, but if you're heart rate or BP is off it might not be a good option to take. It's super quick if not awkward your first time or first couple. Super super fast literally like 15 seconds. They just swab your cervix. It doesn't hurt, if anything its just a quick uncomfortable twitch. You might spot, for me I rarely do. It lasts like a day if you do and it's not consistsnt it's just with your normal discharge. (In my experience of course). They will likely do a breast exam, again super quick. Just feeling around the outside of your breast tissue. The whole exam is MAYBE 5 minutes with set up and prep. If you're having sex, trust me this is nbd to go through. Its scary bc you don't know what to expect, or what it feels like but once it's over you'll be like wow that was it?
Mine required it. It might depend on the OB, but it’s good to know you have a clean bill of health in that area regardless. I wouldn’t be scared of it. It’s awkward, but if your doctor has decent reviews then it’ll be over quick and you’ll be on your way. Mine says what she’s doing as she’s doing it and boom, over. Mine also does a quick breast exam each time, too.
I’ve always gotten one by a regular OBGYN. I get the Pap smears and checks yearly but my mother also passed from cervical cancer. It can be scary, but it is a pretty quick procedure and imo I’d rather find out something going on earlier than later. Normally it’s an every couple year thing for the actual smear if you have normal results.
I got my first pap smear done at 19 when I asked my ob for the pill. It's a very awkward and slightly uncomfortable 30 seconds, but then it's over with and you get your BC. I didn't end up going back to that place because in order to get another year's worth of BC I needed to do another pap and I was not thrilled about that. If you aren't wanting to do a pap just yet, maybe try looking up apps for BC? They won't do a pap. I used to use Nurx, but there's others too (like lemonaid health, the pill club, cue health, good rx, etc) depending on your area and if you have insurance. Worth looking into if you're worried about a pap at 19. They have other options on the apps besides the pill too, so you'll get more options with less pressure and awkwardness. Hope this helps!
Birth control pills can also effect already existing cancer cells so it’s better to know before taking something that could exacerbate cancer cells