Specula - 3, 4 and 5 mm

These are 3, 4, and 5 mm specula. A 3 mm speculum is about as small as you can comfortably use, and still get a large enough view
of the tympanic membrane.

We use 3 mm specula extensively in children from birth to age 3 years. Children age 1-3 years can often accommodate 4 or 5 mm specula. These specula are slightly rounded at the tip, preventing damage to the ear canal when inserted tightly to facilitate a pneumatic seal. Sometimes we use 2 mm specula if the ear canal is very narrow, or in very young babies, or if it is necessary to look through a small opening between lumps of cerumen.