Specula.org

Specula / Speculum

Specula refer to the plural form of the word speculum. When we refer to just one unit you call it a speculum and when you refer to more than one speculum, they are collectively known as specula.

What is a Speculum?

If you just want to know the meaning of the word speculum, it can mean one of the following:

A mirror (especially one made of polished metal) which is used in a visual device.
A combination of copper and tin which can be refined and used for constructing mirrors.
A polished elevated area, which can be square or diamond shaped or horseshoe shaped found on the lip of some orchids.
A chart of the facts regarding the planets in a horoscope. It is used to estimate directions.
Extremely colored area on the sides of some ducks.

But when we refer to a speculum, the plural of which is specula, then it has a different meaning altogether and means the following.

A medical device used to widen a bodily channel or opening in order to inspect the insides.
An apparatus for use in broadening the opening of a passage or cavity (e.g., vagina, rectum, ear) for helping in the examination of such cavity.

Specula Are Made Up Of:

A handle
The bills
A thumb nut, and
A thumb lever

Uses of Specula

It is very essential for women to start having medical examinations once they turn 18 or when they want to start sexual activity so that they can protect themselves and their bodies. Routine examinations are also useful to catch any diseases before they reach a terminal stage and so that they can be cured. In such examinations, specula are used regularly.

Specula are plastic or metal gadgets used to split the walls of the vagina so that the examiner can inspect the cervix (the tapered bottom part of the uterus, with an opening that joins the uterus to the vagina) in the course of a medical test procedure.
When the speculum is inside the cavity, the examiner slowly thrusts the walls of the cavity apart by spreading the ‘spoons’ of the specula away from each other to inspect the vagina and cervix for any discharge or other related signs of illness.
The specula are also used to gather a few cells from the cervix for a medical test known as a pap smear.

Utilizing Specula

Before using specula it is necessary to remember the following things:

The specula should be cleaned properly and sterilized before they are used.
An easy way to clean specula is to immerse in a 1 to 10 dilution of chlorinated beach for 5 minutes, rinse and dry.
The use of any lubricant along with the specula makes for easier insertion and is also less uncomfortable for the patient.
Ensure that the doctor or any other examiner is wearing gloves when using specula.

Specula are generally used to examine the vagina and lower body cavities in both men and women. But at times specula can also be used to examine the ear of any patient if they are having any ear related problems.