Hi there

I have'nt had your history  but i just wanted to say i had cervical cancer thankfully cought early. Ill never forget how terrified i was but was only detected due to the pap test. I know it's a very private issue. all i can say is thank God for the test. I agree with a lot of others, i always go to a female dr because at least then you know they have probably had the same thing done to them.  Talk to them if you don't like them keep going till you find someone you can feel at ease with. All the best in the world. Do it for your little girl.x

please dont think im being harsh but it would seem to me that you have a beautiful 4 year old who is the only reason you need to get yourself to a dr and have one done.

she is enough reason to want to stay healthy and maybe if you consider it in terms of not having cervical cancer so you can be with her for a very long time to come it will make it a less daunting thing, also if you explain to your dr your discomfort and the reasons for it i am sure they will help you to feel better about it.

Everyone has answered well so far. Find a female doctor and before you make an appointment, discuss your fears and concerns. You may find that even over the phone, you may find a doctor that will work with you more so than others.

Also, perhaps a mild sedative can ease your anxiety a bit - but again, somethign to discuss with your doctor.

Although I wasn't abused (and I am so sorry you had to go through that) I was TERRIFIED of the doctor too. I hated going when I was pregnant, I dreaded it with a passion. But my mom told me this and it helped, "The doctor thinks of you as science, not sexually, to them, it is just their job". Another thing that helped me was getting a female nurse and telling her that I was very scared, and to tell me what she was about to do, and explain the procedure so I would know what to expect. I always go to the same woman doctor and have the same nurse too.

Wish I could help you out more than words.  I can only imagine how you are feeling.  I agree with what everyone has said.  You need to see a female (assuming your assaulter was a male) to deal with this issue.  Explain your concerns and go as slowly as you need to.  As for the care of your little one, it can be worked around.  No worries there.  Just make sure you get checked out.  You want to be as healthy as possible for your tot.

Good luck and best wishes.
Angela

The only suggestion is for a female GP. Explain things to them and let them make a decision about how quick you go.

i would speak to your doctor about what you just wrote, they will get you in touch with someone who can help you

Sorry to say but the only way to get over your fear is to face it outright.
i will say counciloring is a hard one. in some people it works and others it doesnt. it hastnt helped me so far after being date raped.
it is something that you really do need to have done. find a doc you can somewhat trust (unless you have one already) and just get it over and done with. there is nothing to be afraid of with it.

take care

It is totally normal to feel scared no matter the circumstances. But personally I would go to a female practicioner, explain your fears. I did that and she took it as slow as I needed. Its the thought of having it rammed into that will scare you off. You'll be surprised how comfortable a female doctor will make you feel. Good luck honey. I understand how you feel.

found that the only way I could go through a pap smear was to actually get anethatized(SP) I found that my Doctor was fine for me to have this done(they did a d&c while they were at it)basically cleaned out the plumbing.After all the trouble I had trying to conceive(ectopics)I really had no choice but to get over it.I myself am a former victim of sexual abuse,so I do know how you feel.Hugs to You Crystal