What is a Vaginal Speculum?

Vaginal specula were used by the Romans and speculum artifacts have been found in Pompei.  A vaginal speculum, developed by J. Marion Sims, consists of a hollow cylinder with a rounded end that is divided into two hinged parts, somewhat like the beak of a duck. The speculum is inserted into the vagina to dilate it for examination of the vagina and cervix.

A specialized form of vaginal speculum is the weighted speculum, which consists of a broad half tube which is bent at about a 90 degree angle, with the channel of the tube on the exterior side of the angle. One end of the tube has a roughly spherical metal weight surrounding the channel of the speculum. A weighted speculum is placed in the vagina during vaginal surgery with the patient in the lithotomy position.  The weight holds the speculum in place and frees the surgeon's hands for other tasks.

Bivalve Ricord Ebony Speculum and a Japanese Speculum

Cusco Vaginal Speculum and a Disposable Vaginal Speculum

Charriere Speculum

Illustration of how a vaginal speculum is used and a view of the cervix.