A cervical smear test should not hurt, but sometimes it can feel uncomfortable. If you're worried about the test causing you pain, your GP or practice nurse can explain ways they can make the test easier for you.
If you are post-menopausal, discuss any concerns with your sample taker who will assess the reasons for the pain/discomfort. One reason may be cervical atrophy, which is a shrinking of the cervix after menopause and is a normal process. If this is the reason, and it is not possible to obtain a test at that visit, your sample taker may recommend a course of topical oestrogen cream to be taken before a further appointment for cervical screening.