Being from the UK I find it very odd that you have smears every year/2 years for your contriception. If I needed it (I don't because I've been sterlised) I would be asked a series of questions about my situation and discuss what would be suitable for me. For me it was the POP (Mirconor) for about five years. No discussion on what brand, if I'd had problems with the one they gave me they would be happy to change it.
I had my first smear about 8 years ago I think and my second three/four years later for screening purposes. I got a leafet before I had the first one which gave a full rundown on what to expect and how to dress for the screening. Which was pretty much wear a skirt and we'll just put a small drape over you. No getting undressed, breast checks (we are trusted to do them ourselves and report to the docs if we find anything) or such.
The below quote is from the pamflet that is given to everyone being screened and you can opt out if you feel you can't go through with it.
I had my first smear about 8 years ago I think and my second three/four years later for screening purposes. I got a leafet before I had the first one which gave a full rundown on what to expect and how to dress for the screening. Which was pretty much wear a skirt and we'll just put a small drape over you. No getting undressed, breast checks (we are trusted to do them ourselves and report to the docs if we find anything) or such.
The below quote is from the pamflet that is given to everyone being screened and you can opt out if you feel you can't go through with it.
What is the NHS Cervical Screening Programme?
The programme makes sure that if you are aged between 25 and 64, you will automatically receive an invitation. We will get your name from your doctor’s list. This means it is important that your doctor always has your correct name and address.
After your first cervical screen, you will receive invitations every three years between the ages of 25 and 49. You will then be invited every five years between the ages of 50 and 64.
The programme makes sure that if you are aged between 25 and 64, you will automatically receive an invitation. We will get your name from your doctor’s list. This means it is important that your doctor always has your correct name and address.
After your first cervical screen, you will receive invitations every three years between the ages of 25 and 49. You will then be invited every five years between the ages of 50 and 64.
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