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[TnToast]

I had to rebook my smear test today as I didn't know that you needed to stop Vagifem 2 days beforehand. (No mention on invitation to screening letter, or by receptionist on booking). It seemed like such a waste of time and unnecessary worry - surely they could mention it on the letter...

After some googling I found conflicting info as to how long before you should stop. The practice nurse said 2 days, so I will go with this, but some people have been told longer. I am thinking of doing a couple of consecutive days of Vagifem beforehand to make sure I am as comfortable as possible and stopping 2 days after this. Also apparently you can request a small speculum if you have VA but it's advisable to request this on booking in case they need to order one in. Anyone struggling can ask to be referred to a specialist vulval pain clinic to have the test.

Just thought this may be useful info - I had no idea. 

[bombsh3ll]

If you live in England or Wales you can just wait an extra 6 months and receive a self taken kit for home use which is just a tiny swab.

[MrsMitch]

I've never heard this. I had to have a smear test last year & generic estradiol pessaries are on my repeat at the GP & I wasn't told to stop. It ended up being impossible due to the pain & finally earlier this year my GP herself phoned me to ask if I was happy to let her try. She told me to make sure I'd used plenty of the pessaries in the days leading up to it, so I used 2 a day. She did use the speculum for virgins & it was pretty good.
Is this new guidelines, perhaps? If it isn't necessary then it's going to cause women to endure a more painful procedure.

[Northerngirl]

I had my last smear test in April and I wasn't aware of this. The practice nurse knew I was using vagifem and didn't mention anything.
Maybe an area issue 🤷‍♀️

[Beaker]

self taking kit, Bomsh3ll? This is fantastic news! Since menopause I have found smear tests excruciating despite lorryloads of HRT, Vagifem, lubricant, the lot. Was dreading my next test in 3y.