Which is better plastic or metal speculum?

Which is better plastic or metal speculum?

Because traditional specula are often not 100% metal, it’s possible for chemical absorption to occur in the nonmetal parts of the speculum, which can expose the patient to further risk. Plastic disposable specula offer a superior experience for the client by eliminating cold and uncomfortable metal from the experience.

How do you remove plastic speculum?

Open bills slightly until free of cervix, then rotate the speculum slightly and withdraw past the cervix. If the walls have collapsed, rotate the speculum back and forth slightly as you close the bills to avoid pinching. Assure that the cervix is not pinched between the bills prior to removing the speculum.

What is the duckbill speculum used for?

A hinged, two-bladed instrument that is inserted closed into the vagina and the blades then separated. This allows for examination of the neck (cervix) of the womb (uterus) and of the vaginal walls. Also known as a Simm’s speculum.

How do you use a plastic speculum?

To insert a plastic speculum, spread the inner lips of the clitoris with two fingers of one hand, hold the bills of the speculum tightly together with the thumb and index finger of the other and guide it into the vaginal canal. You can use a water-soluble jelly or just plain water to make insertion smoother.

Can I ask for a plastic speculum?

Let your doctor know you’re worried about the pain, and that you’d prefer a smaller size. If you’re worried it will be cold, ask for a plastic speculum. Plastic speculums are warmer than metal ones. If they only have metal speculums, ask them to warm it up.

Are plastic speculums sterile?

Cleaning followed by high-level disinfection should eliminate enough pathogens to prevent transmission of infection.” However, many facilities do sterilize their vaginal speculums. Some of the smaller speculums could probably be packaged in paper-plastic pouches. Heavier ones may need to be wrapped.

How do you use plastic speculum for a Pap smear?

Speculum Examination

  1. Lubricate the speculum and warn the patient.
  2. Part the labia using your left hand.
  3. Gently insert the speculum with your right hand:
  4. Slowly open the blades and use light to inspect the cervix.
  5. Look for:
  6. At this point swabs/endometrial biopsy should be taken if required.

Can you be sedated for a pelvic exam?

The short answer to this question is, yes, you can be sedated to get a pelvic exam and Pap smear. This is not common practice however, and usually only done when there is suspected clinical concern and a routine exam is not possible.

Can I use a speculum on myself?

To perform a vaginal self-exam, you will need a strong light such as a flashlight, a mirror, a vaginal lubricant, antiseptic soap or alcohol, and a plastic speculum. Speculums are available at pharmacies that sell medical supplies.

Can I be sedated for a smear test?

What can I expect during a pelvic exam?

Here are some things that you can expect during a pelvic exam: The doctor will examine the vulva (exterior genitalia) to check for signs of irritation, infection, or sores. The doctor will insert a lubricated speculum into the vagina.

How do you perform a pelvic exam?

During a pelvic exam, a small metal or plastic instrument called a speculum is placed into the vagina so as to expose the cervix and then a “Pap smear” is performed in which a brush is used to brush cells away from the outer portion of the cervix to send to a laboratory for evaluation to check for any types of precancerous changes of the cervix.

What happens during a pelvic exam?

The basics of what happens during a pelvic exam. Pelvic exams are performed to evaluate pain, bleeding, and vaginal discharge, to screen for cervical cancer and sexually transmitted infections.

What are the procedures in pelvic exam?

A pelvic exam generally includes: External visual exam. First, your doctor looks at your vulva, checking for irritation, redness, sores, swelling or other abnormalities. Internal visual exam. Next, your doctor uses a speculum – a plastic or metal-hinged instrument shaped like a duck’s bill – to spread open your vaginal walls and see your Pap test. Physical exam.