Why Pap Smears Don't Have to Hurt: A Gynecological Teaching Assistant 2026

Pap smears don't have to hurt. That's the message from Molly Callahan, a gynecological teaching assistant (GTA) who has up to 16 speculums inserted into her vagina on her busiest days. She works full-time helping medical students practice pap smears and breast exams before they work with actual patients. The point, she says, is to teach students how to perform these exams without causing discomfort.

Contrary to common belief, pap smears – tests that screen for cervical cancer – don't have to be painful. "I don't ever really feel physically in pain even after the longest week of work," Callahan said. "If [your] reaction to my job is that it sounds like torture, I hope you feel scammed," added Callahan, 30, who is also the president of an international association for GTAs and MUTAs (male urogenital teaching associates). "I hope you go fire your gynecologist."

Pap smears have reduced cervical cancer–related deaths by 86%, but many women avoid them due to confusion around guidelines, perceived lack of symptoms and, most commonly, speculum discomfort and embarrassment. One large study of US cancer statistics data found that from 2005 to 2023, 32% of women aged 21-29, and 15% of women aged 30-65, had never had a pap smear.

The negative association isn't surprising. Looking at the cervix for indications of cancer became more common in the early 20th century, said Dr Kirsten Gardner, director of medical history at the University of Mississippi. The procedure has evolved, but misconceptions persist.

What Is a Gynecological Teaching Assistant?

A gynecological teaching assistant (GTA) is a layperson who helps medical students learn how to perform pelvic exams, including pap smears and breast exams. GTAs use their own bodies to teach students proper technique, communication, and bedside manner. They provide real-time feedback, helping students understand what feels comfortable and what doesn't.

Callahan's role is to ensure that future doctors know how to perform these intimate exams with sensitivity and skill. "We're teaching them how to not hurt people," she said. The training focuses on relaxation techniques, proper speculum insertion, and clear communication.

Why Pap Smears Matter

Pap smears are crucial for early detection of cervical cancer. The test involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for abnormalities. Since the introduction of regular screening, cervical cancer deaths have dropped significantly. Yet, many women still avoid the test.

According to the study, nearly a third of young women aged 21-29 have never had a pap smear. This is concerning because cervical cancer can develop without symptoms. Regular screening can catch precancerous changes early, when treatment is most effective.

Common Myths About Pap Smears

There are several misconceptions that keep women from getting screened. One is that the exam is always painful. Another is that you only need a pap smear if you have symptoms. In reality, the exam should be relatively painless when performed correctly, and screening is recommended even for those without symptoms.

Embarrassment is another major barrier. Many women feel uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger examining their intimate areas. GTAs like Callahan aim to reduce that discomfort by training doctors to be more mindful and communicative.

How to Make Your Pap Smear More Comfortable

Communication is key. Let your doctor know if you're nervous or if something hurts. A good doctor will adjust their technique and explain each step. Relaxation exercises, like deep breathing, can also help. And remember, you have the right to ask questions and to stop the exam at any time.

If you've had a negative experience in the past, don't let it deter you from future screenings. Callahan's advice: "If your reaction to my job is that it sounds like torture, I hope you feel scammed. I hope you go fire your gynecologist." In other words, find a provider who prioritizes your comfort.

The Role of GTAs in Medical Education

GTAs are increasingly used in medical schools to improve students' skills before they practice on patients. This hands-on training helps reduce anxiety for both students and patients. Callahan's work is part of a broader movement to make healthcare more patient-centered. Context on how this played out before sits in Why Pap Smears Don't Have to Hurt: A Gynecological Teaching Assistant.

By teaching students to perform pap smears gently and respectfully, GTAs like Callahan are helping to rebuild trust in a procedure that saves lives. "We're not just teaching a technique," she said. "We're teaching empathy." The background to this story is set out in NHS Cervical Screening Bus Boosts Cancer Test Access. A related thread runs through Elderly: latest articles.

What to Watch Next

As guidelines for cervical cancer screening continue to evolve, it's important to stay informed. The HPV vaccine and newer screening methods are changing the landscape. But for now, regular pap smears remain a critical tool in the fight against cervical cancer. Earlier coverage in NHS Birth Centre Closures: A Shocking Denial of Women's Rights shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Italy's Unvaccinated Medics Face Return to Frontline Duty.

If you're due for a screening, don't delay. Talk to your doctor about any concerns, and remember that a well-trained provider can make the experience virtually painless. Callahan's story is a reminder that the exam doesn't have to be something to dread. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Discreet Health Trackers: Best Alternatives to a Smartwatch. The same theme surfaces in Accelerated Biological Aging Linked to Early-Onset Cancer Risk, which takes a different angle.