Are Pap-Smears Triggering?

This week, Mya talks about one thing she’s never talked about before - getting a pap-smear as a survivor. She shares insights on why women get these exams, how important they are, the process of getting them, and ways to feel empowered and in control before, during and after! It’s common for survivors to feel triggered and alone in this process, largely because it’s not talked about enough and unfortunately not every physician is trauma-informed. So MK is not going to leave you in the dark, but instead she gives tips that will help you feel empowered before your next visit to the OBGYN! <3

Topics Include:

• Cervical cancer screenings - paps & HPV testing


• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommendations


• What may be triggering about these experiences


• Survivor stories and experiences


• Your rights


• Ways to prepare and comfort yourself before, during and after exams

RESOURCES

OUR SOCIALS/WEBSITE

Articles for more info/where I pulled from...

https://www.healthline.com/health/navigating-medical-exams-after-sexual-assault#Tips-to-feel-safe-and-informed-during-your-exam

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/cervical-cancer-screening#:~:text=Women%20who%20are%2021%20to,%2Dtesting)%20every%205%20years.

You can find a list of national rape crisis centers, who can act as a resource for referrals if needed (to help find a trauma-informed physician), here...

https://www.raliance.org/rape-crisis-centers/