Description

A boxed set of eight cervical dilators dating from the 19th century. Each is marked for size as follows, the largest 12/15 then reducing to 11/14, 10/13, 9/12, 8/11, 4/7, 3/6, 2/5 and 1/4, all in solid condition with some very minor marks. They come in a box made of light wood with a fabric hinge, probably scratch built for the purpose. The catalogue page shows a similar set in a catalogue dated 1890 although unlike the description, these do not bend. Cervical dilators were first used in the early 19th century so this set may possibly be older.

Cervical dilators such as these were used to gradually widen the cervical opening for various gynecological procedures. These procedures could include dilation and curettage (D&C) for diagnosing or treating conditions like endometrial cancer, performing endometrial biopsies, evaluating infertility, and hysteroscopy. They were also used to insert intrauterine devices (IUDs) and for draining the uterine cavity. 

The dilators measure 27cm (10.5″) in length and the case is 37cm (14.5″”) long.