01/14/2026
Pap Smears + Pain โ What pelvic floor tension has to do with it
If Pap smears are painful for you, know that its not all โin your headโ and youโre not alone. And most importantly there are solutions to your pain.
Although there are some reasons why the cervix itself would be uncomfortable during a pap smear, it usually isnโt JUST the cervix thatโs the problem โ it often relates to how the muscles, nerves and tissues surrounding the vaginal opening let go.
A few common reasons a Pap may hurt:
pelvic floor overactivity (tight, guarded muscles)
fear/anticipation (your nervous system is part of the equation)
dryness/irritation
Local skin inflammation
Nerve hypersensitivity
Past pain experiences that taught your body to brace
The goal isnโt to โpush through it.โ
Itโs to help your body feel safe enough to soften โ and there are ways pelvic floor PT/OT can help with that.
womenshealth
mindbodypelvis