
Sims Specula — Pattern and Clinical Use
The Sims retracts one vaginal wall — usually the posterior wall — while an assistant holds it, exposing the anterior wall and cervix. It is not self-retaining, and that is the point: it gives the operator complete freedom over the direction and degree of retraction, which suits vaginal surgery, repair procedures and examinations where a fixed bivalve would obstruct access.
Because it is held throughout, blade balance and handle comfort matter to the assistant. The two ends carry different blade sizes so one instrument covers two exposure requirements.
Sims Specula Variants and Specifications
Standard Sims patterns.
| Variant | Specification / use |
|---|---|
| Small / medium double-ended | General examination |
| Medium / large double-ended | Vaginal surgery |
| Single-ended pattern | One blade size |
| Curved blade | Follows the vaginal contour |
| Satin finish | Reduces glare |
| Paired with Auvard | Anterior and posterior retraction |
Material, Finish and Quality Control
We forge Sims specula from 316L austenitic stainless. Both blade ends are finished to the same standard and balance checked, since the instrument is hand-held throughout a procedure. Each batch passes Rockwell hardness testing, dimensional checks on blade finish parity and balance, and visual inspection under our ISO 13485 system before passivation and final finishing. Mirror and satin finishes are both available — satin is usually specified where glare under operating lights is a concern.
Who Sources Sims Specula From Surgical Star
Sims specula sell to gynecology clinics and hospitals for vaginal surgery and examination, and are usually ordered alongside Auvard weighted specula as a retraction pair.
OEM, Certification and Ordering
Every Sims specula can be produced as a private-label line: your logo laser-marked on the handle, your catalog numbers, and your own printed packaging, manufactured from your drawings or a reference sample. Our quality file is ISO 13485, our EU route is CE marking under MDR 2017/745, and our facility holds US FDA establishment registration. Conformity and ASTM F899 material certificates are issued against each order.
You order direct from the factory with no trading-house margin, on volume-tiered pricing and a minimum matched to your pattern and finish. Once your branded sample is signed off, expect roughly four to six weeks to bulk delivery, worldwide DDP. See how OEM & private label works →
Related Gynecology & Obstetrics Instruments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Sims speculum self-retaining?
No. It is held by an assistant, which gives complete control over the direction and degree of retraction — useful where a fixed bivalve would obstruct access.
Why is it double-ended?
The two ends carry different blade sizes, so one instrument covers two exposure requirements without swapping.
What is it usually paired with?
An Auvard weighted speculum for posterior retraction, with the Sims retracting the anterior wall.
Can you manufacture these under our own brand?
Yes — full OEM and private label. We laser-mark your logo and catalog numbers, pack in your branded boxes, and work from your drawings, tech pack or a reference sample, with a pre-production sample approved before any bulk run.
Send your pattern list, drawing or a reference sample and we’ll quote MOQ, pricing and lead time — standard catalog or fully private-label.
Request a Free Quote Order a Sample