concerned about current pap smear discourse (TW)
long rant: the discourse on social media around pap smears (and women’s health in general) has been very concerning. there are women who are making literal statements like “i’d rather opt out and get cancer and die” or saying the examination is r*pe. then there are women on the other side of the argument making things worse by saying “if you can take dick, you can get a pap smear” or bring up tampon usage. just so much bullshit getting said that people are ignoring reality and how their words have impact, especially to the impressionable youth looking at this trending discourse.
making light of cancer is ignorant and insensitive to those who have it/survived it. using the word “r*pe” in such frivolous ways is harmful as FUCK. words mean things. it is uncomfortable to see these statements. mainly because i’m thinking of other women that have been through it + the young ladies that haven’t had their first exam yet forming opinions. comparing pap smears to sex and using tampons is also ignorant. you can be sexually active and have discomfort during a pap smear. you can use tampons and have discomfort during a pap smear. some women aren’t even sexually active. some don’t even use tampons.
sure, as an adult you have the option to opt out of pap smears. you can even talk about your bad experiences. i’m aware medical misogyny exists. but a responsible adult wouldn’t make damning statements on public platforms about a topic this serious. they would encourage medical advocacy, highlighting the importance of being informed and speaking up for yourself because it will trickle into every aspect in your life. (tell the doctor if you experience discomfort. there are options that decrease discomfort. if they refuse to listen, make them record it and report them. leave and find another doctor. shop around if you must because this is your health at stake. self exams are even an option.) responsible adults would suggest therapy to those dealing with sexual trauma and/or vaginismus so one day maybe they won’t have to live with the fear of exams.
the harmful rhetoric needs to stop asap because i already see it leading into opting out of breast exams and colonoscopy because “they look painful”. i also see the slippery slope of not even making attempts to advocate for yourself (this makes a bigger impact on your life than most think). once again, as an adult opt out if you want, but don’t fear monger the youth. they see what you are saying. if it was any other topic i wouldn’t give a fuck, but this is too serious.
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