How do I stop Smear Test reminder letters from GP (UK)?

Question

Please do not lecture me - I find smear tests really painful and 3 years ago I got myself in a right old state waiting for the results to come in as 2 of my older sisters were diagnosed with cervical cancer over the past 5-7 years. I was worried about nothing the reult for me was negative.

I do not want to go through the pain or worry again - so do I just ask my GP if they will stop sending me letters or is there more to it?

I have had enough of hospitals and doctors recently and feel so down - I know it could be worse - I could be bed ridden or on dialysis - but I just don't want to go through this anymore. Thanks.

Answer 1

I know these tests are horrible and so embarrasing but please go and get it done.   I do not mean to lecture you but my mum died of cancer, and this is one type that can be detected early and treated very easily.  

All I can say is to ask that you see either a lady doctor or nurse and talk through your concerns and fears and I am sure that they will understand and do everything they can to help you.

Please go the test is over very quick but as you say the wait can be a couple of week, but the doc may be able to hurry them if you explain.

I do really feel for you, but please go and get the smear done.

I wish you all the very best and sorry to hear that both your sisters were diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Answer 2

In normal circumstances i would say, it is your choice, stop the letters or ignore them, but two close relatives have been diagnosed and your risk of having it is significantly higher than the average person, more than i think you realise, i feel it would be very unwise to ignore this

Answer 3

Tell you GP and they will remove you name but cervical cancer is heredity - your test were negative but so was your sisters????

Answer 4

I know nobody likes stress, but gosh! Think about what you're saying. I'm dreading my first smear, especially as I have tendencies to vaginismus. I imagine it to be incredibly painful also, and I'm such a nervy person that I panic about any results. But you're not being wise or sensible. Don't stop having your smear tests, you need them to stay happy and healthy. You'll be more care free if you do have them than if you don't.

Answer 5

you should have it done. don't die of embarrassment

Answer 6

Im so sorry to hear that, you know of all people then how important it is to get checked even though it was missed before you would not want to go through the same thing but find that it is too far gone, anyways if you are set on not having them then contact whoever the letters are from and make a point you do not wish to receive anymore.

Answer 7

you should be able to write to them or call them and have your name removed.  But I would advise you to reconsider and have pap smears regularly.  Your have the genetic make up to get cervical cancer.  Its best to catch it early so it can be treated instead of dying.  For everyone I have talked to the pap smear was not painful.  Go to a different Dr.  Try an OB/GYM instead of a GP

Answer 8

that's a shame to hear. I haven't  had one yet but if you find it painful, and the worry and stress of waiting for results it sounds like a nightmare, im certainly not gonna be looking forward to mine lol!

i suppose the only worry is if 2 of your older sisters have had cervical cancer, is that a bad coincidence or can it be genetic?

Answer 9

I know that you have asked not to be lectured..but please read your question back to yourself!

You need to have Smear tests regularly, especially if there is a history of cervical cancer in your family. I am sure that your test results will always be clear, but things can sometimes change very quickly.

It would be all well and good to live in blissfull ignorance, but surely you would rather have a few anxious weeks of waiting, than finding out anything is wrong too late!

We are lucky to live in a country that provide this amount of health care for females, I suggest that you remember that, pull up your socks and be brave!

I am sorry that you sisters had to go through such a horrable thing, but you have to take care of yourself as well!

Knowledge is the most important thing, don't give up your chance of that!

Answer 10

I hate smear tests to but i find it easier to go and get it over with rather than worry about it. I always buy myself some chocolate or take myself shopping as a treat. I know it hurts but the longer you leave it the more painful it will seem. Please go and get it done just to put your mind at rest.

Answer 11

Just write to them and ask them to remove you from their mailing data base.

Answer 12

i dont think you can stop the letters...if you have problems later...you might sue them...more than their jobs worth..

really, really re-consider this though..especially as you might have the gene through a family connection...you need this screening..it might save your life!!

edit:  i know how down hospitals can make you feel...i had a tumour & hysterectomy recently...it's depressing.  maybe you are feeling like this now & will have a change of heart when you are feeling a little stronger.  i wish you well anyway.

Answer 13

Yep, just go into your doctors and ask them to stop sending them, often you have to sign a disclaimer, you might have to sign a new disclaimer every 3 years or something.  

Here is an interesting article on smear tests  http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2003/m...