Speculum

A vaginal speculum is a metal or plastic device used during a pelvic exam. It is placed into the vagina to open up and hold apart the sides, which allows the examiner to see the opening to the uterus (cervix).

A speculum is often used to collect samples of cervical cells to screen for cervical cancer. The health professional may also use a speculum to collect tissue samples from and examine the inside of the vagina.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library