Speculum for dilation?

[EmmyJ21]

Silly question but does anyone know why they now use a speculum to check your cervix rather than the old fashioned two fingers in?

Long story short been having contractions from 5pm yesterday came into labour suite @ 7am with regular contractions 2-3 mins apart. Checked my cervix with a speculum and its long and closed.

still here contractions more intense, longer time between them but lasting a lot longer now. Making my eyes water everytime I have one. Becoming more and more unbearable.
Leaking some yellowish fluid, did a speculum said it just looks like discharge. Yet I've never had discharge that colour or leaking through onto a pad??
They said my cervix is still closed so these contractions must be Braxton hicks because they aren't labouring contractions otherwise they'd be altering my cervix.

I'm in so much pain during them, I'm really struggling to believe that they can just be Braxton hicks.

Gosh, I saw something on speculums the other day and now can't remember where.
It could be because they can open you up for a better look and to take a swab, if needed!
And some women, especially those who have been sexually abused, might prefer a speculum to some strangers fingers probing them!!

I gave birth less than 3 weeks ago, no speculum was used

I've done it twice, 3 years and 9weeks ago, no speculum. Keep calling and go back if you're uncomfortable and ask them to check again. Good luck, you can do it!

It’s to reduce infection and not stimulate the cervix if pre term labor is suspected. Also the swab thing, the results of which can be altered by lubricant that nurses often use when checking.