The Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK, which resembles a small duckbill, raises questions, but most importantly, it is especially frightening for vaginal specimens. Unless you’ve had sinusitis, you’ve probably never heard of a nasal speculum or an ear speculum. In reality, the vaginal speculum is frequently utilized during a gynecological checkup. The Réjeanne team explains everything you need to know about this medical technology, making it less frightening.
What is a Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK?
A Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK is a medical device used by gynecologists and midwives to hold the vaginal walls open and allows the doctor to perform a more or less successful gynecological examination depending on the reason for the consultation. It can be used to take tissue or liquid samples, notably during a Pap smear, to install an IUD, or to check the cervix.
This tool, which is used during gynecological examinations, has allowed us to better understand the health of the female reproductive system and improve the treatment of gynecological diseases, but it is important to note the ethical cost of its invention by Dr. Sims, who tested it on slaves in the 1800s.
Gynecological Examination
Women are motivated to see a gynecologist for two reasons:
- Abdominal pain, white discharge or abnormal bleeding, amenorrhea, and pain during sexual intercourse are all indications.
- Yearly consultation with the goal of prevention, as well as annual screening.
A gynecological exam is typically painless and takes only a few minutes. It is guided by patient talks as well as their personal and family history. He comprehends:
- Breast examination to look for cysts, lumps, or potentially malignant growths.
- A general exam is to determine weight, height, and blood pressure.
- An abdominal examination to rule out abdominal pelvic tumor syndrome or suspicious pain.
- A perineal examination can detect infectious lesions or obstetric sequelae such as tears, episiotomy, or fistulas.
- A pelvic exam includes a speculum and a vaginal examination. The speculum is introduced into the vagina and then separated, allowing it to grip the vaginal walls and hold them open.
What is the size of a vaginal speculum?
The size of the disposable vaginal speculum in UK varies based on its role and the area being examined. It is about 16 cm long. A smaller speculum, for example, may be used if a clinician is only inspecting a tiny region of tissue. If he wants a better view of what’s going on inside, he’ll go with a speculum with more movement.
What are the different speculum models?
There are three types of speculums: straight, curved, and angular. Depending on its shape and design, each type serves a distinct purpose; for example, a curved speculum is excellent for evaluating the anterior vaginal wall, whereas an angled speculum is useful for examining the posterior vaginal walls.
The four most frequent types of speculums are as follows:
- Speculum de Cusco
- The speculum of Colin
- Hayle microscope
- Kogan microscope
A speculum model is used on women who have never had penetrative sex. It has a shorter beak to avoid the practitioner from perforating the hymen. There is also a distinction between disposable and reusable vaginal specula. Plastic is used to make the disposable speculum. Sterilizing plastic equipment is impossible. As a result, reusable vaginal specula are constructed of steel.
Why can speculation be harmful?
When used incorrectly or put too deeply into your body, a Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK can cause pain. It can also be irritating if you have a vaginal infection or inflammation, which makes it more sensitive than usual. The most typical cause of this type of pain during an exam is the doctor’s failure to relax the pelvic muscles before inserting his probe (which means that he presses directly on these tense muscles). Although the speculum can be uncomfortable if you aren’t prepared (and many women aren’t), there are ways to make the procedure more comfortable by applying lube or another form of lubrication beforehand.
