Lilium Speculum: Redefining Comfort in Women’s Health Care
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For almost two centuries, one of the most essential gynecological tools, the vaginal speculum, has remained largely unchanged. Cold, metallic, and often uncomfortable, it’s no wonder that many women dread pelvic examinations. But an innovation from the Netherlands is changing that narrative!
What Is the Lilium Speculum?
The Lilium Speculum is a newly designed medical device developed by Ariadna Izcara Gual and Tamara Hoveling from the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). The goal is to make pelvic examinations more comfortable, humane, and patient-centered.
Made from semi-flexible, medical-grade thermoplastic vulcanizate rubber, the Lilium Speculum features three soft, petal-shaped blades that open gently, resembling a flower. This thoughtful design reduces discomfort and anxiety, creating a safer, more compassionate experience for women during medical checkups.
The Inspiration Behind Lilium
According to a Mayo Clinic study, around 35% of women experience shame, fear, or pain during vaginal examinations. Many even delay or avoid regular checkups altogether, increasing their risk of undetected infections or cervical cancer.
This was what inspired Hoveling and Izcara Gual to act. After hearing how women described their experiences: “cold,” “painful,” and “intimidating”. They realized the problem wasn’t just physical, but psychological too. The traditional metal speculum, invented in 1845 by Dr. J. Marion Sims, has symbolized discomfort and detachment from women’s real needs.
As Ariadna Izcara Gual explains, “Some of the women I interviewed indicate that they feel pain at the insertion and even removal of the device. And it is more than that. It is about the ‘gun’ shape, the cold and uneasy feel, the emotions.“
Metal vs. Plastic: The Key Differences
Metal Speculum
> Feels cold and rigid
> Can cause anxiety and discomfort
> Reusable but intimidating design
> Designed for clinician efficiency
Lilium-Speculum
> Feels soft, warm, and flexible
> Promotes psychological comfort
> Gentle, flower-like shape
> Designed for patient comfort
Where Lilium Is Headed Next
The project is currently in development. The researchers aim to release a testable prototype within 1–2 years, though a full rollout may take up to five years, pending clinical trials and regulatory approvals. The team is now seeking partners to bring this innovation into global health systems.
A Step Towards Women-Centered Healthcare
At Filmore Pharma, we believe every woman deserves healthcare that respects her body and her comfort. The Lilium Speculum represents a new era, one where design meets empathy.
We hope innovations like this reach Indonesia soon, so women across the country can experience gentler, more respectful care during routine examinations. Of course, the choice remains personal, whether you prefer the traditional metal or this new plastic design; what matters most is your comfort.
Sources:
1. Personal Care Insights: Lilium Speculum: Women’s Health Innovation
https://www.personalcareinsights.com/news/lilium-speculum-womens-health.html
2. Delft University of Technology (TU Delft): New Vaginal Speculum Design Might Motivate Women to Go for Health Checkups
https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ide/delft-design-stories/new-vaginal-speculum-design-might-motivate-women-to-go-for-health-checkups
Image Credits: Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) — from the article “New Vaginal Speculum Design Might Motivate Women to Go for Health Checkups”
https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ide/delft-design-stories/new-vaginal-speculum-design-might-motivate-women-to-go-for-health-checkups