Chewing Gum During a Pap Smear

Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women aged 35-44. Cervical cancer screening methods include the Papanicolaou test (PAP) via cytopathology, and the Pap smear is widely used for early detection of cervical cancer. A Pap smear involves a speculum examination, direct visualization of the cervix, and collection of a sample from the cervix using a brush. ACOG recommends screening for women aged 30-65 with cervical cytology alone every 3 years, with high-risk HPV testing alone every 5 years, or with cytology and high-risk HPV testing (concurrent testing) every 5 years (ACOG). Women often experience anxiety and pain during pelvic procedures. Anxiety is a distressing emotional state. Many women with increased anxiety are at risk of experiencing pain. An adrenergic response is activated between the physiological effects of anxiety and the perception of pain. It has been reported that the pap smear procedure, which is a pelvic procedure, is relatively short, and cognitive and behavioral interventions that distract the patient can be effective in reducing pain and anxiety. In addition, strategies for alleviating pain and anxiety include pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Non-pharmacological methods are reported to be inexpensive and easy to implement, and have relatively few side effects. Various interventions, such as booklets, brochures, informative videos, education, and music, have been tested in the literature to reduce anxiety and pain levels. Neuropsychology confirms that chewing gum increases sustained attention. Chewing gum has a sustained effect on alertness and attention. Chewing gum can lower cortisol levels, reduce distractions, and increase cognitive focus. This can reduce overall stress and anxiety. Chewing gum is reported to be a cheap, well-tolerated, safe, and effective way to alleviate anxiety and stress . There are no direct studies in the literature on the use of gum during Pap smears. This study aimed to examine the effect of chewing gum during Pap smears.