Can I ask not to get a Pap smear at my gyno exams

They aren't fun, and I don't know anyone who looks forward to them, but they are an important part of your health, especially your reproductive health. There are many problems, some deadly, that a pap smear can detect, that you wouldn't know about otherwise.

When you go, try some nice, slow breathing... practice it before you even go in. Certainly let your doctor know that you are nervous about it and they can talk you through it. In most cases, it is a pretty quick procedure.