Rulers & Pelvimeters
A pelvimeter is an instrument used to measure the external dimensions of the pelvis — a technique historically central to obstetric assessment, and still used today in physical anthropology, comparative anatomy, and select clinical settings where external measurement is preferred over imaging-based pelvimetry.
What's in This Collection
The Martin Pelvimeter is the classic pattern used for external pelvic measurement, with calibrated arms that open to span pelvic landmarks and read the distance directly off a graduated scale. The Collin Pelvimeter (35cm) offers an alternative pattern with the same core function — external measurement of pelvic diameters — differing mainly in arm design and scale length. Both are used the same way: positioning the arm tips against defined anatomical points and reading the resulting span.
Alongside the pelvimeters, this collection includes general-purpose measuring instruments for gynecological and obstetric use: the Width Ruler (18mm) and Depth Ruler for measuring wound, incision, or tissue dimensions during a procedure, and the Measuring Probe Width Ruler, which combines a probing tip with a graduated scale for measuring within a cavity or tract rather than only across an external surface. These are lower-cost, general-utility instruments distinct from the calibrated pelvimeters, useful anywhere a precise millimeter or centimeter measurement is needed during a gynecological or obstetric procedure.
Choosing Between a Martin and a Collin Pelvimeter
Both patterns measure the same pelvic diameters; the choice mostly comes down to arm design and personal or institutional preference for scale readability and grip. Neither is inherently more accurate than the other — precision depends more on correct anatomical landmark placement than on which pattern is used.
Related Instruments
Pelvic measurement instruments are often used alongside other obstetric assessment tools. If you're stocking a delivery or obstetric tray, pair this collection with our Obstetric Forceps and Gynecology Surgery Sets for the broader procedure kit. For uterine measurement specifically, our Uterine Sound collection covers internal uterine depth assessment, a related but distinct measurement task from external pelvimetry. For tissue retraction during measurement or examination, see our Depressor collection.
To browse the complete range, visit Gynecology Instruments.
Ordering
Peak Surgicals manufactures and supplies gynecology measuring instruments in bulk for hospitals, clinics, and distributors worldwide, with international shipping and custom logo branding available on request — contact our team for a wholesale quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pelvimeter used for?
A pelvimeter is used to measure the external dimensions of the pelvis, a technique used in obstetric assessment and physical anthropology to evaluate pelvic diameters.
What's the difference between a Martin and a Collin pelvimeter?
Both measure the same pelvic diameters using calibrated arms; they differ mainly in arm design and scale length rather than in accuracy or function.
Is pelvimetry still used in modern obstetrics?
External pelvimetry has been largely supplemented by imaging-based methods in many clinical settings, but the instruments remain in use for physical assessment, teaching, and in settings where imaging isn't practical or necessary.
What is a depth ruler used for in gynecology?
A depth ruler measures the depth of a wound, incision, or cavity during a procedure, giving a precise millimeter or centimeter reading rather than a visual estimate.
