A new era for gynecological exams

Whether you’ve ever had a gynecological exam or not, you know they’re rarely pleasant. About 30–35% of women report feeling shame, fear, or even pain.

For this reason, two engineers at Delft University believe part of the problem lies in the tool itself: the speculum.

Tamara Hoveling and Ariadna Izcara Gua designed a new model, Lilium, centered on patients rather than doctors. Just recently, it raised the funds needed to move into clinical trials.

A speculum is a medical instrument used during gynecological exams to inspect the inside of the vagina and to collect samples from the cervix (e.g., Pap tests).

It’s typically made of metal—or plastic for single-use versions—and consists of:

1. A handle
2. A “beak” that opens inside the vagina
3. A screw to adjust the opening after insertion

Vaginal and anal speculums were already used in the Roman Empire, with findings discovered in Pompeii.

The modern speculum, however, was developed about 180 years ago by the American doctor J. Marion Sims, who, between 1845 and 1849, tested it on at least 12 enslaved women, performing dozens of procedures without anesthesia.

1. Made from flexible, medical-grade rubber
2. Flower-shaped design with three “petals” that expand inside the vagina and a tube to control them
3. Allows patients to insert it themselves
4. Improves visibility of the cervix and makes it easier for healthcare professionals to use.

material research to optimize the prototype.

The researchers still need to:

• Obtain safety certifications
• Conduct trials on more participants
• Gain regulatory approval before clinical rollout

To reach this next stage, they needed €100,000, which they raised in just two days via crowdfunding—demonstrating strong public support.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women, according to the WHO. Early detection requires HPV testing and/or Pap tests, both of which need a speculum.

Beyond increasing awareness and access, ensuring exams are less painful, frightening, or embarrassing is expected to encourage more women to get screened regularly.

• The Atlantic
• Braun
• Delft University
• France 24
• Jstor