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Just wanted to say hi and sorry I’ve been quiet. I had a smear test which came back abnormal so I’ve been on crisis mode.
No cancer, just weird cells. Got a biopsy so we shall see what the next steps are! Probably too much info but blanket sorry for not replying to DMs or asks!
Ps: gals, don’t void your smear tests 🥰
This is a friendly reminder to anyone with a vagina: book your smear test!!!
Amid all the shittiness this week I am beyond grateful that the nurse conducting my smear test was so amazing - first of all she instantly acknowledged that it might be a sensitive topic and immediately offered that this appointment could just be for explanation if that would make me more comfortable and that I could bring someone next time if that would help (she left the decision entirely up to me and I was like hell no get it the fuck over with). She calmly and clinically explained everything that would happen, said she’d read up on the effects of testosterone and knew it could cause atrophy and had a plan for if it was uncomfortable, made it incredibly clear I was the one in control and she would stop or pause at any point no questions asked, took my lead for conversational topics, explained what would happen afterwards and made sure I knew that even though I don’t get automatic reminders she’d set one up based on results. We chatted about potential hysto and she was so kind and professional throughout. I just needed that so, so much, particularly given the timing.
Shout out to the wonderfully jolly Nigerian nurse who just did my smear test and got excited at the fact i have a retroverted uterus because she doesn't often see them - you're fab & i hope everyone with a cervix gets a nurse as delightful and as gentle as you 💜
And just as a PS: without wonderful foreign medical staff like her, we'd have no NHS.
PPS: this is reminder for all my cervix having pals - GO BOOK YOUR SMEAR. Its hella important to look after your bits.
Right so I’ve been signed off work for another 2 weeks following complications from my cervical punch biopsy.
If you don’t know what that is it’s when they basically take a bit of your cervix tissue using a glorified hole punch and then send you on your way.
Anyways 2 weeks on it’s been decided I have an infection and me being in and out of hospital with pain, a temperature and nausea finally needed some antibiotics.
Fingers crossed I’m better soon but I’m more than happy to write some posts about this stuff if people are interested.
Anastasia
Do you know what the current NHS guidance/stance on smear tests is for trans men? I personally would prefer to have one if it's recommended but I'm of the right age and haven't been contacted yet so I'm wondering whether I should chase my GP about it or if it's not needed due to my hormones.
Hi,
Different NHS boards have different procedures for whether they contact transmen or automatically take them off the smear list once you have updated your name/gender marker.
It is always recommended that if you are comfortable, you continue to have your smear tests right up until you have total hysterectomy/vaginectomy. Obviously for some this may not an option due to dysphoria and you should never feel any pressure to have one done if you don’t want to.
So it’s a good idea to chase this up with your GP and make sure you are on their list for a smear test. Take that time to ensure they give you someone with experience of transmen, as this should ensure you have a more sensitive person doing this for you.
Just when I'm in a good place, life brings me back down.
My smear test results came in today. High-risk HPV was present. My cells are abnormal. "Mild changes," the letter said. I have to go for a colposcopy for further screening.
In a weird way, I'm not surprised. I've spoken here about my menstrual issues. I knew something was wonky in the womb area. I knew the moment I touched the letter what it would say... I just didn't think it actually would.
I'm 29. My last smear was normal. And I've been ignored about my concerns with my periods for 3 years. I only got this smear because someone finally listened and I had the coil fitted. My dr asked since I'd be there with my legs akimbo anyway. I was overdue by a few months because of my period issues. It was pure chance she asked.
And... I'm absolutely fucking terrified.
If you are someone who prays... maybe you would be so kind to include my cervix in them.
And please, for the love of God, go and get your smear test.
So I went to have my smear test today…
Yeah. Didn’t happen. After several weeks of wanting it out the way, I literally had a panic attack as the nurse tried to open my legs and she had to call my mum. My mum came in, we tried again… I literally thought I was going to pass out. Nurse ended up not doing it because I was resisting.
I feel so ashamed and embarrassed. I can’t even do this one thing.
