The Nella NuSpec by Ceek is the first reusable vaginal speculum designed to optimize patient comfort while improving efficiency for healthcare providers.
Each year in the U.S., 60 million pelvic exams are completed and 30 million gynecologic procedures are performed. Specula are the critical tool used during these different types of exams and procedures, including pap/HPV testing, infertility treatments, and IUD insertions/removals.
The current metal vaginal speculum is virtually unchanged from versions created almost 200 years ago. The Nella NuSpec is the first major redesign of the reusable speculum that takes into consideration the patient experience along with unmet provider needs. It is intended for use by any healthcare professional providing gynecological care, including OBGYNs, nurse midwives and general practitioners.
Speculum insertion can be uncomfortable for many patients, but the NuSpec's narrow size (about the size of a tampon) and smooth, temperature-neutral material allow it to glide in with ease. When the provider opens the device, lateral retractors retain vaginal sidewalls so providers have adequate visibility and access to conduct an exam or procedure.
The NuSpec is designed to address the needs of patients across many life stages, conditions and body types. It can improve comfort for any patient, but it can also make a drastic difference in exam experience for specific populations, such as post-menopausal women, transgender patients or cancer survivors.
The NuSpec is reusable and can be cleaned and sterilized just like current metal specula. However, compared to the stainless steel used today, the NuSpec's engineering-grade polymer is temperature neutral-- patients don't have to experience a jarring cold sensation and healthcare providers don't need to resort to potentially unsanitary heating pads.
For the provider, a unique toggle locking mechanism allows quiet opening and locking of the device with one-hand—unlike the metal speculum, which can make clanking, anxiety-inducing noise and requires two hands to secure. The NuSpec's handle form and increased angle are also more ergonomic for the provider which is crucial for a device used constantly throughout the day.
In a survey of over 300 women, 99% would rather experience the NuSpec during their exam versus the current metal speculum. The Nella NuSpec brings a fundamental change to the way gynecological care is delivered by meeting the needs of both providers and patients.
The NuSpec's safety and efficacy was validated as part of a an IRB-approved randomized clinical study (the VIOLET Study). It is currently being adopted by clinics and hospitals across the U.S. and recently received the CE mark, making it available for sale to the EU and other CE recognizing countries.