A vaginal speculum is a metal or plastic device used during a pelvic exam. It is inserted 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 for a Pap test (a screening test 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:
October 6, 2017
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Sarah A. Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC, FACOG - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology