Osmotic dilator
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Osmotic dilators, also known as hygroscopic dilators, are medical implements used to dilate the uterine cervix by swelling as they absorb fluid from surrounding tissue. They may be composed of natural
Osmotic dilators prior to expansion. Dilapan-S (left). Laminaria (right)
Osmotic dilators after soaking in water for 24 hours. Dilapan-S (left). Laminaria (right). This does not represent the amount of expansion that would occur when used in humans.
Speculum (medicine)
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A speculum is a medical tool for investigating body orifices, with a form dependent on the orifice for which it is designed. In old texts, the speculum may also be referred to as a diopter or dioptra.
Osmotic dilator
…the non-pregnant uterus, although this is uncommon. Prior to a planned surgical abortion, osmotic dilator(s) may be inserted into a woman's cervix. A speculum is placed in the vagina to allow the provider to see the uterine cervix. A tenaculum may be placed on the anterior lip of the cervix to straighten the…
A disposable bivalved plastic vaginal speculum
Three types of ancient Roman specula c. 50 AD.
14th, 15th and 16th century specula
Boivin's speculum