Do Pap Smears Hurt? What to Expect and How to Make It More Comfortable

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), MD — Medhaven Health

Pap smears are one of the most important preventive tests for women’s health, yet many women hesitate to schedule them because of one big worry: do pap smears hurt?

If this is your first time, or you had an uncomfortable experience in the past, you’re not alone. Many women search for terms like are pap smears painful, does a pap test hurt, and why do pap smears hurt. Let’s break it down step by step so you know exactly what to expect, why some discomfort can happen, and how to make the process as painless as possible.

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear, also called a Pap test, is a routine screening where your doctor gently collects cells from your cervix (the opening of your uterus). The goal is to check for any abnormal cells that may signal cervical cancer or precancerous changes.

This test usually takes just a few minutes, often performed during your annual well-woman exam. Despite how important it is, the fear of a painful pap smear test keeps many women from booking it.

Does a Pap Smear Hurt?

The short answer: most women feel some pressure, but not actual pain. For many, it’s more of an uncomfortable or awkward sensation rather than a painful one.

However, experiences vary:

• Some women describe a painless pap smear.

• Others feel mild pain during the pap test, especially if they have vaginal dryness, a tilted cervix, or heightened anxiety.

• If you’ve ever wondered does a Pap smear feel like losing your virginity? — the answer is no. While both involve the vaginal opening, a Pap smear is performed with a medical tool called a speculum and does not resemble that experience.

Why Do Some Women Feel Pain During a Pap Smear?

If you’ve asked yourself why did my Pap smear hurt?, there are a few possible reasons:

1. Tension & Anxiety – When you’re nervous, your pelvic muscles tighten, which can make the speculum insertion more uncomfortable.

2. Speculum Size – Doctors may use different speculum sizes. A larger one may cause discomfort, while a smaller size (often used for women who haven’t given birth) can make it easier.

3. Vaginal Dryness – Common after menopause, during breastfeeding, or when estrogen is low. Dryness can make the exam feel scratchy.

4. Positioning – If you’re not relaxed or lying comfortably, the pressure can feel worse.

5. Virgin Patients – Many virgins wonder, does a virgin need a Pap smear? or can a virgin get a Pap smear? Yes, Pap smears are recommended starting at age 21, whether you’re sexually active or not. But for virgins, the exam may feel tighter, and doctors often use extra-small speculums.

Pap Smear Pain Level: What to Expect

Most women rate Pap smear pain level as very mild or just “slightly uncomfortable.” Here’s what typically happens:

1. Speculum Insertion – Feels like pressure, sometimes cold. This is usually the most uncomfortable part.

2. Cell Collection – A small brush or spatula is used to collect cervical cells. This may feel like a quick scratch or light cramp.

3. After the Test – Some women notice light spotting or mild cramping afterward, which usually resolves quickly.

In other words: it’s more about awkwardness than pain.

Tips for a Painless Pap Smear

If you want to make your next Pap smear as easy and comfortable as possible, here are proven tips:

• Schedule Mid-Cycle – The best time for a Pap smear in your cycle is about 10–20 days after your period ends. Avoid scheduling during menstruation unless necessary.

• Ask for a Smaller Speculum – Especially if you’re young, haven’t given birth, or are a virgin pap smear patient.

• Relax Your Muscles – Deep breathing, listening to calming music, or chatting with your doctor can help reduce tension.

• Use Lubrication – Doctors can apply a small amount of water-based lubricant to make insertion smoother.

• Communicate – Let your provider know if you’ve had pain during a Pap smear before. They can adjust their technique.

Can Virgins Have Pap Smears?

Yes — can a virgin have a Pap smear? Absolutely. Even if you’ve never had sexual intercourse, you may still need cervical cancer screening starting at age 21.

Many virgins worry about virgin Pap test pain. While the exam can feel tighter or more uncomfortable, most providers use smaller tools and extra care to ensure comfort.

So, can virgins have Pap smears? Yes, and they should when it’s medically recommended.

What If My Pap Smear Was Painful?

If you had a painful Pap smear test in the past, don’t avoid your next one. Instead:

• Tell your doctor about your experience.

• Ask for adjustments, like a smaller speculum or more lubrication.

• Consider seeing a female provider if you’ll feel more at ease.

Sometimes, discomfort is linked more to the provider’s technique than the Pap test itself.

Final Thoughts:

For most women, Pap smears do not hurt, but they can feel slightly uncomfortable. The sensation is usually mild and lasts only a few minutes.

• If you’re worried about pain during a Pap test, talk openly with your doctor.

• If you’re a virgin, don’t skip this important exam — just request extra care.

• If your last Pap smear hurt, know that there are ways to make the next one much easier.

The key is preparation, relaxation, and communication. Think of it as a short, preventive step that can save your life by catching cervical changes early.

Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Dr Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi)

CRNP, FNP-BC, MSN is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with 16+ years of experience. She provides personalized, high-quality care in family medicine, preventive health, and chronic disease management at MedHaven Health in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Read More