The data on the incidence of cervical cancer are striking - it is the sixth most common cancer among women in Poland, accounting for 10.7% of all female cancers. Approximately 1,700 women die annually from this cause (according to the Cancer Register 2009).

Why don't young Polish women get tested?

Too many myths arise when talking about going to the doctor.

I asked my friends if they get examined regularly. Reactions to my question varied from embarrassment and confusion to nervous smiles. Even among women, this topic is proving difficult.

Some admitted that they make an effort to go regularly, others said they were afraid of the doctor and that the examination would reveal a disease, ashamed or for lack of time.

Drifting further on the topic of absence from the doctor, I heard several times that:

• a gynaecological examination hurts,
• examinations are expensive,
• doctors are not gentle,
• you have to wait a long time for an appointment.

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Of course, all these arguments can be considered in two aspects: for some they will be myths, for others they will be truths supported by experience.

Does a gynaecological examination hurt?

It is true that it involves some discomfort, but it is not painful. This question is also determined by the doctor's approach - and here is another issue: as in any profession, there are doctors who are more empathetic and those who are less so.