Getting a pap smear is awkward. Your first pap smear? Even worse. There are a million tips online to help you get through a standard first pap smear. But, if you end up in the very unlikely situation in which your gynecologist is stage and screen's Nathan Fillion, then these are the tips for you.
1. Research pap smears.
One of the reasons why there is a stigma attached to pap smears is that many women don't fully understand what the process entails. It's probably not nearly as scary as you think. Before your appointment, take a few minutes to read up on the procedure so you know exactly what is going to happen.
2. Research Nathan Fillion's childhood.
If there is one thing on Earth more awkward than a pap smear, it's the moment Nathan Fillion realizes that you have little to no knowledge of his upbringing. No need to pull an all-nighter. A quick Wikipedia skim in the waiting room should give you just enough material to make small talk during your appointment.
3. Don't leave your underwear on.
Just don't. Many women who are nervous about being so exposed insist on wearing their undergarments under their gown. Honestly, this is just going to make things even weirder when you have to be asked again to remove your underwear. Follow your nurse's instructions exactly and your appointment will go much more smoothly.
4. Don't bring up the fact that Nathan Fillion is not licensed to be a gynecologist.
Just don't. Many women recognize Nathan Fillion as the lead actor in the cult classic drama "Firefly." No women recognize Nathan Fillion as a licensed gynecologist. That's because he isn't one. But he played one on "Desperate Housewives," and in "Waitress," so chill. Just politely nod when he introduces himself as "Nathan Fillion, very totally 100% Licensed Gynecologist" and your appointment will go much more smoothly.
5. Think of how many women a gynecologist sees.
It is common to feel embarrassed when getting your pap smear done. It's easy to convince yourself that your doctor is going to judge your body, even though you know it's irrational. Remember, a typical gynecologist has cared for and examined hundreds or thousands of women in their career. So if you're feeling self-conscious, just remind yourself that your doctor has seen it all before.
6. Think of how many "Desperate Housewives" actresses Nathan Fillion knows.
Marcia Cross. Teri Hatcher. Felicity Huffman. Eva Longoria. Wow. These women are not only talented, smart and gorgeous but also won a Golden Globe for their groundbreaking female-driven comedy-drama and that's something to be proud of.
7. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
You should feel confident asking your doctor any questions you may have. Furthermore, you should feel comfortable asking your doctor to talk you through your procedure. This way, you will know exactly what is going on at all times. Knowing what is happening and what is coming next will ease your mind and help you relax, an important component of having a comfortable experience.
8. Don't, under any circumstance, look down as Canadian-American actor Nathan Fillion swabs a sample of cells from your cervix and mumble, "'Castle,' right?"
Of course, "Castle!" He's in like four things!
