Vaginal Specula — Pattern and Clinical Use
The speculum provides the entire working exposure in gynecology. Bivalve patterns such as the Cusco and Graves open two hinged blades and lock at a set separation, giving a hands-free view of the cervix for smears, colposcopy and IUD insertion. Single-blade Sims and weighted Auvard patterns retract one wall only, which suits procedures performed with the patient in lithotomy where an assistant or gravity holds the exposure.
Blade width and length must match the patient, and specula are supplied in graduated sizes for that reason. Edges are rolled and polished because the vaginal mucosa is sensitive and a sharp blade edge causes both discomfort and abrasion.
Vaginal Specula Variants and Specifications
The main speculum families and where each is used.
| Pattern | Specification / use |
|---|---|
| Cusco bivalve | Self-retaining; general examination |
| Graves bivalve | Wider blades; better cervical exposure |
| Pederson bivalve | Narrow blades; nulliparous and sensitive patients |
| Sims double-ended | Single blade; assistant-held retraction |
| Auvard weighted | Weighted; gravity-held posterior retraction |
| Small / medium / large | Graduated sizing |
Material, Finish and Quality Control
We forge Vaginal specula from 316L austenitic stainless. Blade edges are rolled, polished and inspected, and the locking mechanism cycled so exposure is held at the set separation without slipping. Each batch passes Rockwell hardness testing, dimensional checks on blade edge finish and lock retention, 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 Vaginal Specula From Surgical Star
Vaginal specula are the highest-volume gynecology instrument and sell to clinic, hospital and family-planning distributors as graduated size sets in both reusable stainless and single-use formats.
OEM, Certification and Ordering
Every Vaginal 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
What is the difference between Cusco and Graves specula?
Both are bivalve self-retaining patterns. Graves blades are wider and give better cervical exposure; Cusco is the general-purpose standard. Pederson blades are narrower for nulliparous or sensitive patients.
When is a Sims speculum used instead?
Where only one wall needs retracting and an assistant is available, or in procedures where a bivalve would obstruct access. It is not self-retaining.
What sizes should we stock?
A graduated set. Size selection matters for both comfort and exposure, so most clinics keep small, medium and large.
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