The Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain and Anxiety During Pap Smear Testing: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: Pap smear testing is an important cervical cancer screening procedure; however, the pain, discomfort, and anxiety experienced during the procedure may negatively affect women’s screening experiences and adherence to future screening. Virtual reality (VR) is a nonpharmacological intervention that may help manage procedure-related pain and anxiety through immersive distraction. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of VR on pain and anxiety during Pap smear testing. Methods: This randomized controlled experimental study included 60 women undergoing Pap smear testing. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 30) or a control group (n = 30). Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-State (STAI-S), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). During the Pap smear test procedure, the intervention group watched a relaxing nature video using a VR glasses, whereas the control group received routine nursing care. STAI-S was administered before and after the procedure, and pain intensity was assessed using the VAS after the procedure. Results: No significant difference was found between the groups in pretest STAI-S scores (39.83 ± 11.00 vs. 41.46 ± 10.10, p = 0.534). However, posttest STAI-S scores were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (24.80 ± 6.70 vs. 40.13 ± 9.58, p < 0.001). Postprocedure VAS pain scores were also significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the control group (1.43 ± 1.25 vs. 2.86 ± 2.43, p = 0.028). Conclusions: Virtual reality was effective in reducing pain and anxiety during Pap smear testing. VR may be used as a simple, nonpharmacological nursing intervention to support pain and anxiety management and improve women’s comfort during gynecological procedures.