The Vaginal Speculum: A Review of Literature Focusing On Specula Redesigns and Improvements to the Pelvic Exam

Abstract

We reviewed scientific literature relating to the vaginal speculum considering the widespread use of this tool within women’s health. Through a literature review, it is clear that the speculum is not specialized enough to be used for all populations who require the procedure. Despite the fact that the current standard of care is not sufficient for all patients, evaluations of industry solutions are not evident in the current literature, explaining physician hesitancy to adopt these new devices. Additionally, while scholarly literature exists regarding overviews of the topic, novel designs, and general improvements for speculum usage in pelvic examinations, there are noticeable gaps in the scholarship regarding frequency of scholarly output and a blatant disregard for obese populations in vaginal speculum research. More scholarly literature must be published in order to improve awareness of the vaginal speculum and pelvic examinations so that women receive the best care possible. More specifically, novel designs must be evaluated for efficacy and comfort, and more research should be conducted on the pelvic examination procedure and its use on obese patients.