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: May 5, 2025