A disposable vaginal speculum in UK is used by medical professionals to examine the cervix and vagina. This allows for a more unobstructed view of the cervix, which can be seen after the device is inserted into the vaginal entrance. This article tries to find out what the disposable version of the speculum is, how it works, and the benefits it offers. A disposable version of the speculum is becoming increasingly popular in the UK.
What is a Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK?
A medical device called a Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK is an instrument used to examine the vagina and cervix. Due to its plastic construction, it is disposable and has only one application. This means that it is discarded after each use rather than sterilized like the metal version that has traditionally been used.
How Does a Disposable Vaginal Speculum Work?
After ensuring that the blades of the disposable vaginal speculum are closed, the device is then placed into the vaginal opening. When it is in the correct position, a lever is used to open the blades, and this provides medical personnel with a clear view of the cervix and vagina. After that, the medical expert can carry out procedures such as a Pap smear, a cervical biopsy, or any number of other systems.
Benefits of Using a Disposable Vaginal Speculum in UK
The disposable vaginal speculum offers several advantages, including the following:
Hygiene:
Traditional metal speculums are less hygienic of choice than their disposable counterparts since they provide a danger of cross-contamination that their single-use counterparts do not.
Comfort:
When compared to a metal speculum, which may cause discomfort to some women, the disposable plastic speculum is made of a material that is soft and smooth. The disposable speculum is also offered in different sizes, making it suitable for women of different ages and body types.
Convenience:
Since the disposable speculum is for single use, there is no need to sterilize it before use. Additionally, the amount of time required for cleaning and maintenance is significantly reduced.
Cost-effectiveness:
When compared to traditional metal specimens, which require regular sterilization, which can be an expensive process, the disposable speculum is a more cost-effective option in the long run.
How to use a disposable vaginal speculum
Both training and expertise are necessary to use a disposable vaginal specimen. Proper protocol must be followed to guarantee patient safety and comfort. The steps that need to be followed are as follows.
- Talk to the patient about the procedure, and make sure they understand both the benefits and the risks involved.
- The patient should be positioned appropriately, meaning that she should be lying on her back with her knees bent and her feet should be resting on the examination table.
- Determine the size of the disposable speculum that is best for your needs.
- After you have opened the package, look inside for any signs of damage or faults.
- Put some lubrication on the blades of the speculum.
- After ensuring that the blades on the speculum are closed, insert them into the vaginal opening.
- After the instrument has been placed in the appropriate position, the lever should be used to open the blades until a clear view of the cervix and vagina is achieved.
- Carry out the necessary procedure, which may include either a Pap smear or a cervical biopsy.
- Put the blades back in place, then carefully take out the speculum.
- Place the used speculum in a receptacle designated for biohazardous waste before disposing of it.
Conclusion
Traditional disposable vaginal speculums in UK are often made of metal, however, there is an alternative that is not only more hygienic but also more comfortable to use and less expensive: the disposable vaginal speculum. The disposable version is gaining popularity in the UK, and medical professionals are starting to use it because of the many benefits it offers. To use a disposable speculum in a manner that is safe and comfortable for patients, one must first have the appropriate training and skills.
