If a Pap smear is truly painful, not just unpleasant, there is a reason for it and that alone justifies the exam, if not the smear itself.
It helps to keep in mind the reason for the Pap smear. It is to pick up precancerous conditions so they can be treated and cured before the cancer develops. We now know the vast majority of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers are related to human papillomavirus infections. Because of that, gynecologists are moving toward testing for HPV infections as the primary screening tool.
New HPV Test Replacing Pap Smear to Detect Cervical Cancer in Women
Previous posters have covered some of this, but to summarize:
Women who have had hysterectomies for cervical abnormalities almost certainly have had a high risk HPV infection at some point (whether tested for HPV or not) and should continue to be screened for possible vaginal problems after their hysterectomies.
Women who have tested positive for high risk HPV before the hysterectomy, even if that was not the indication for surgery, should also continue to have screening.
Women who have the cervix conserved at hysterectomy are no different from the way they were before surgery and need continued screening.
Women who have never had a cervical abnormality or positive HPV test can stop screening altogether. However, even women who never have had any cervical problems should consider having regular examinations in order to monitor for other health problems, including breast and ovarian abnormalities.(non-cancerous oarian tumors exist, too). That exam is also an opportunity to check your blood pressure and look for things like osteoporosis. As women get older, the rectal exam becomes important.
How Often Should You Get the HPV Test? - theHPVtest.com
Women should have periodic health maintenance examinations even after a hysterectomy, with the need for a Pap or HPV screening individualized.
HPV vaccination has the potential to reduce cervical abnormalities due to HPV tremendously. Please vaccinate your children and vaccinate yourself if you are a candidate. A new vaccine is nearing approval which will cover even more strains of HPV: nine in total compared to four (Gardasil) or two (Cervarix).
HPV Vaccine: There
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