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A speculum is a metal or
plastic instrument that looks somewhat like a duck's bill. The "bills"
are inserted into the vagina and opened in order to spread the vaginal walls and
visualize the cervix. After the speculum has been opened, a cervical brush and
then a spatula will be used to rub a sample of cells off the cervix. This may
cause you to experience some spotting after the exam, but it will not hurt. The
sample of cells is spread onto a slide and this is the Pap smear. Any samples
for testing for infections will be collected. Some doctors screen for sexually
transmitted diseases routinely. However, most tests will only be done if there
is a reason. The speculum is then closed and removed from your
vagina. There will be some clicking noises during the locking and unlocking of
the speculum; these noises are routine, so there is no need to be concerned by
them.
Your doctor will do a speculum exam to
do obtain a pap smear.
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