there are two parts to the internal exam. the first involves a speculum, a metal or plastic instrument that the practitioner inserts into the vagina. the speculum is shaped like a duck’s bill, and once it is inserted into the vaginal canal, it is gently widened to spread the interior vaginal walls (this is not painful). as the vaginal walls are spread, the practitioner is able to see the walls of the vagina itself, and up the vaginal canal to the cervix. when viewing the vaginal canal and the cervix, the practitioner can look for discoloration, abnormal discharge, lesions, growths and signs of infection. it is possible for you to look at your own cervix during this process by propping yourself up on your elbows and using a mirror. some practitioners ask if you would like to do this, but feel free to ask to if she doesn’t mention it first.