Gynecology is essentially a study of women, their diseases, infections and illnesses. The specialization focuses on the woman’s reproductive organs namely the uterus, fallopian tube, ovaries, vagina and vulva. This specialization has come a long way in terms of the care of the female. While inspections were previously one of compromise–a procedure designed to preserve the chastity of the woman. The procedure consisted of the woman standing in front of the doctor, the doctor kneeled in front ofher and inspected her reproductive organs beneath her skirt.

He was not allowed to visualize these organs, only palpate them. Today, visiting a doctor entails that reproductive organs be visualized and internal organs examined. Numerous procedures have been deviced to safeguard patients in general and women in particular from diseases. Prevention has become a by-word. In the event of illness that requires surgical intervention, like myomas, endometrioses refractory to medical treatment, ovarian torsion and ectopic pregnancies, surgery through the abdomen proves to be the easiest, safest way to access them. A variety of retractors have been designed to allow the surgeon a clear view of his operative field, while other retractors have the added advantage of preventing iatrogenic damage or doctor-caused damage. They may also be shaped in such a way that they follow the contours of the abdominal wall. Retractors may be handheld or are self-retaining. Handheld retractors come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Among the most commonly used handheld retractors are the DeLee Bladder retractor or the bladder blade. The retractor consists of a blade and a handle. The blade is tear shaped, with its retracting portion folded in a concave shape to allow better access during caesarean section. Its blade may be off-set to the right or left. Its width protects the bladder from iatrogenic damage during caesarean section because of the close proximity of the lower uterine segment to the bladder. The Richardson retractor, although used by other surgical specializations, is also a mainstay in gynecologic surgery. It may be double- or single-edged. The double edged Richardson retractor may be used to retract using both ends, one end being smaller than the other. The handle is located at the center. The blades of the retractors are curved at the edges and are at right angles with the handle. The single edged Richardson retractor on the other hand has the same blade but has its handle on the other end. The Richardson retractor comes in different sizes depending on the amount of tissue to be retracted. Another useful retractor is the O’Sullivan-O’Connor retractor or the Irish retractor. It is used in retracting the abdominal or pelvic wall it is self-retaining which means that once it is applied it need not be held anymore. These retractors also have moistened lap pads that allow padding between the blades and the tissues preventing damage. The surgeon can then work without having to worry about his field of vision nor the damage the retractor can cause to the surrounding tissues. Retractors come in different shapes and sizes yet they serve the same purpose, to allow the doctor to have a good visualization of the operating field and give him ample soace to maneuver. Its just a matter of convenience.