(L-454) A Redesign of the Modern Speculum Utilizing Medical Grade Silicone and Menstrual Cup Inspired Technology for Enhanced Patient Comfort and Safety
Introduction:: With cervical cancer as a leading cause of cancer deaths among women globally, early detection through regular screening is crucial for a successful treatment. However, current cervical screening methods can be expensive, anxiety-inducing, and uncomfortable, leading many individuals to avoid these crucial exams. A newer, more affordable design which accommodates these issues may increase screenings, giving it the potential to reduce cervical cancer-related deaths by up to 27% over the next five years if an 85% screening rate is achieved. With billions of individuals worldwide potentially benefiting from this patient-friendly design, the market size for the modified menstrual cup speculum is significant.
Materials and Methods:: To address these issues, a modified menstrual cup design has been developed as a cheaper, comfortable alternative to traditional speculums (see Figure 1). The silicon-based speculum is transparent and can be folded for insertion in a similar manner to a menstrual cup. Once inside the vagina, it slowly expands to fit and open the vaginal wall, providing a clear view of the walls and cervix for medical screening. The speculum is hollow with a small taper and is molded to fit all different size dimensions, similar to the Pederson and Graves speculum. It can range in length from 76 mm to 170 mm and in width from 22 mm to 55 mm, with an approximate weight similar to other menstrual cups currently in use, ranging from 20 to 50 grams.
Results, Conclusions, and Discussions:: The implementation of the silicon speculum has the potential to reduce cervical cancer-related deaths by up to 27% over the next five years if an 85% screening rate is achieved. By creating a completely transparent silicon-based speculum similar to the already familiar menstrual cup, the patients can adopt a more positive, relaxed mindset during these screenings. Additionally, the redesigned cup will be customizable to ensure proper cervical support for every individual. In the initial testing of the redesigned speculum, we plan to record results regarding patient comfortability, silicon amount efficiency, device effectiveness, and healthcare professionals’ opinions of its usage. The silicon used in this redesign prevents any unnatural opening of the vaginal wall, enabling patients to adapt and ease their body around the cup, rather than forcing themselves through the discomfort.
