A
female
age
30-35,
anonymous
writes:Ok, I know this is a really stupid question but I'm going for my first pap smear soon and I was wondering if I should be clean shaven or neatly trimmed down there. Any advice? I'm kind of nervous about this.. Reply to this Question
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Fancy yourself as an agony aunt? Add your answer to this question! A
female
reader, misfitschik66  +, writes (30 September 2010):
 Oooh this one is a tricky one i was nervous too for my first pap smear thinking what if my doctor thinks hair is gross..but then i got thinking no way doctors have seen worse stuff down there
do what makes you feel more comfortable
doctors are not paying attention
A
female
reader, anonymous, writes (29 September 2010): thank you all so much!
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A
female
reader, Tisha-1 +, writes (29 September 2010):
 No, shaving isn't necessary. You sound nervous. Here's a link that will help you know what to expect.
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/womens-health/pelvic-exam-4306.htm
"There are some simple steps you can take to prepare for your exam.
Plan your pelvic exam for a day you when you will not have your period — unless you have a bleeding problem your health care provider wants to see. Menstrual fluid can affect the results of some lab tests.
Don't have vaginal intercourse or insert anything in your vagina for a day or two before your visit.
Women shouldn't douche. But if you do, don't douche for at least 24 hours before your visit. For more accurate test results, don't use any other vaginal products, either. They can hide many vaginal conditions.
Make a list of the questions you want to ask your health care provider. Some women write them down so that it is easier to remember them during the appointment.
Ask if you can have a friend in the room with you if you think you would feel more comfortable."
So just go as you are, and do your very best to relax.
Good luck!
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A
reader, anonymous, writes (28 September 2010): I wouldn't worry about shaving or not shaving. Like dirtball said, they see all kinds of situations... it doesn't affect how they do their job. If you're really adamant on "looking your best" so to speak, give it a quick trim beforehand. If you're nervous about the pap smear itself, ask if you can have a nurse in there as well to hold your hand. Not sure of what protocol is in your state, but I asked specifically to have someone else with me in there. I found that my first pap smear was a lot better with someone else there making small talk and holding my hand. It's a stressful situation, any little act of kindness will help! Good luck!
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A
male
reader, dirtball +, writes (28 September 2010):
 I don't think it matters. I'm sure the doctor sees every possible variation in their line of work, so it won't matter to them. Do whatever you feel will make you the most comfortable.
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