A vaginal speculum is a medical device that allows physicians and health providers to better view a woman's cervix and vagina during pelvic exams. Most specula are made of metal and plastic, and physicians insert a portion of the speculum into the patient's vagina to separate the vaginal walls.31 Oct 2019
Do speculums hurt?
Speculum exams may feel weird or a little uncomfortable, but it doesn't hurt at all for most people. If you have any questions or concerns about pelvic exams or speculums, talk with your nurse or doctor.
How do you use a vaginal spatula?
Made of metal or plastic, it's hinged and shaped like a duck's bill. Your doctor inserts the speculum into your vagina and gently opens it during your exam. Speculums come in different sizes. Your doctor will choose the size to use based on your age and the length and width of your vagina.19 Oct 2018
How many fingers does a gynecologist use?
The doctor or nurse will put lubricant on two fingers (still wearing the gloves) and slide them inside your vagina. Using the other hand, he or she will press on the outside of your lower abdomen (the area between your vagina and your stomach). You may feel a little pressure or discomfort.
Are speculums supposed to hurt?
While it may be uncomfortable, a speculum should never be painful. If you start to feel pain, tell your doctor. They may be able to switch to a smaller speculum.19 Oct 2018
How do speculums feel?
The speculum opens a little bit to separate the walls of your vagina. Speculum exams may feel weird or a little uncomfortable, but it doesn't hurt at all for most people. If you have any questions or concerns about pelvic exams or speculums, talk with your nurse or doctor.
Can a speculum cut you?
The speculum might feel like it's stretching out your vagina, but it only opens up the vaginal canal temporarily. It won't widen or loosen your vagina. A speculum shouldn't cause damage or injury when used by a trained doctor.
Do gynecologists use their fingers?
A breast exam might also be done. Sometimes, but not always, gynecologists conduct a pelvic exam, which is usually the most uncomfortable part for patients. A doctor uses a speculum to examine the vagina and cervix and then places fingers of one hand inside the vagina and presses on the abdomen with the other hand.18 May 2018
How many fingers do you need for a pelvic exam?
During a pelvic exam, your doctor inserts two gloved fingers inside your vagina.24 Jul 2021
Do gynecologists stick fingers in butt?
The gynecologist will request that you lie on your back on the examination table, with your feet in raised stirrups. You will then be asked to take a deep breath and relax. Next, the doctor will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum.15 Apr 2021
How many fingers is a speculum?
This means your doctor will have to feel them to check for issues. Your doctor will insert two lubricated and gloved fingers into your vagina. They'll use the other hand to press on your lower abdomen to check for any growths or tenderness in your pelvic organs.19 Oct 2018
Does it hurt to have a speculum inserted?
THE SPECULUM EXAM SHOULDN'T HURT! Gynecologists are expertly trained to place a speculum, with as little discomfort as possible.
Does vaginal speculum loosen?
However, there are few risks involved as long as the speculum is sterile. If it hurts, you can ask the doctor to use a smaller speculum. The speculum might feel like it's stretching out your vagina, but it only opens up the vaginal canal temporarily. It won't widen or loosen your vagina.