ObGyn advice: how to relax?

obgyn-advice:-how-to-relax?

Hello there! First time posting here, but I’m happy to find a place like this 🙂

So, I wanted to ask if anyone else has a lot of pain during pelvic exams/pap smears? I do, and I’ve been told I just need to relax but I legit don’t know how to do it. I also have a a bit of pain during penetration during sex, but it goes away quickly and foreplay helps a ton. This, for obvious reasons, isn’t an option during a pelvic exam haha.

My former ObGyn told me that if I’m able to relax during sex, then I should be able to relax during a pelvic exam… So yeah…

Any tips? I have my next appointment soon and I’m a bit desperate. I can endure the pain, but I’d prefer to not suffer. Thanks for reading!