Consent
Explain the reason, seek informed consent and follow chaperone policy.
MEDIVEERSETHE PRACTICAL HUBLOOK CLOSELY / UNDERSTAND CLEARLY
Bivalve vaginal speculum
Recognise a bivalve speculum and discuss consent, privacy and appropriate examination.
REFERENCE GALLERY1 / 1 reference
1
Blades
The two opposed blades in this bivalve reference.
Zoom in, then drag to inspect. Keyboard: + / − to zoom, arrows to pan, 0 to reset. Tap the numbered markers to explore parts.
bivalve speculum — reference view
Image: Author credited at source · Source / original · CC BY-SA 2.0 frResized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.
Identify and explain
Two blades separate the vaginal walls to permit inspection when clinically indicated.
- Paired opening blades
- Handle or operating levers
- Retaining or locking mechanism
Identify
Distinguish a self-retaining bivalve design from a Sims retractor.
Care
Size, comfort, infection prevention and stopping when requested matter.
At the viva table
Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.
01 / Is an intimate examination performed without explanation?
No. Explain the purpose and obtain appropriate consent.
02 / Does every speculum retain itself open?
No. Designs differ; Sims-type instruments commonly require separate support.
03 / What does it expose?
The vaginal walls and cervix when the examination is appropriate and the view permits.
04 / Does this instrument diagnose a condition by itself?
No. Findings require clinical interpretation.