Gynecology Chair Buying Guide

Gynecology chairs are indispensable tools for physicians, whether they are used to perform routine annual exams or for checkups with expectant mothers. These chairs enable providers a safe and effective way to examine patients; they also provide patients with comfort and stability during what can sometimes be uncomfortable procedures. 

When outfitting a new medical practice, providers should take a critical look at exam chairs and tables to ensure they are getting the very best for their budgets. Safety and durability are important to ensure that both patients as well as providers minimize the risk of injury. 

Expectant mothers can be especially vulnerable to discomfort and back pain, so a quality chair is a must for patient satisfaction.

What Is a Gynecology Chair?

The term “gynecology chair” is often used interchangeably with gynecology table; sometimes, you may also hear it referred to as an "ob-gyn chair" since it is used in both obstetrics and gynecology. These chairs are structured in such a way that they facilitate the specific requirements of gynecology exams, and they have either permanent or detachable stirrups to support a patient's legs. 

Doctors rely on gynecology chairs to safely and effectively perform pap smears, pelvic exams, and many other tests. They are used to examine both pregnant as well as non-pregnant patients, and they can be adjusted as needed for different procedures.

Can I Use a Standard Exam Chair for Gynecology Exams? 

While many gynecology exams take place in obstetrics and gynecology practices, not all of them do. Sometimes, a cervical exam may be needed in a general practice physician's office or an emergency medical clinic. This is why many standard exam chairs come with detachable stirrups that can be added when needed.

If a standard medical exam chair or table does not have stirrups, this can make certain gynecology exams more difficult, both for the patient as well as the provider. 

Gynecology Chair Buying Guide

If you are shopping for gynecology chairs for your practice, read on to learn more about your options below.

Gynecology Chair Types 

Gynecology chairs are generally distinguished by how their adjustments are powered, whether manual, electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic.

Manual Chairs

Manual gynecology chairs are a budget-conscious option and the most basic chairs available. They are adjusted by levers, which means extra effort for the provider in exchange for the savings on the chair. 

A manual gynecology chair may be a good option in a setting where gynecology exams are infrequent, and they are generally lighter in weight because of the absence of electronic or hydraulic components. Therefore, they may be stored and moved easily when not in use.

Electric Chairs

Electric gynecology chairs are popular because they are easy to adjust. Electric components allow providers to move these chairs at the press of a button, which can provide a safer way to position patients for various examinations and procedures.

Hydraulic Chairs

Hydraulic chairs also assist the provider by reducing the physical effort required to adjust them; rather than relying on electric power, a hydraulic gynecology exam chair has a fluid mechanism that turns a cylinder to move the chair.

Pneumatic Chairs

A pneumatic gynecology chair's movements are powered by air and gas. It is another option for chair adjustments that do not rely solely on the medical provider's physical strength.

Overall, the type of chair best suited for your practice will be based on not only your budget but also the size of your space, the profile of your patients, and the needs of your employees. Regardless of what type of gynecology exam chair you choose, you should always take careful measurements of your space to ensure that you have plenty of room to move around the exam chair during exams and procedures. 

The weight capacity of the chair is another important consideration; choosing the exam chair in your budget with the highest weight capacity will ensure you can accommodate a wide range of patients.

Gynecology Chair Features to Be Aware of

Most gynecology exam chairs will come equipped with some or all of the features below.

Comfortable and Durable Padding

Padding is one of the most important parts of the exam chair to ensure patient comfort. The padding and upholstery on the chair should be made from high-quality materials that are easy to clean and will not irritate the skin. 

Additionally, the padding should be durable enough to stand up to wear and tear, especially in busy practices. Many exam chairs come with a number of color choices for upholstery so that you can choose the ones that work best with your office decor.

Storage Compartments

Storage compartments located in the base of some exam chairs are a great way to maximize space in smaller exam rooms. Various medical supplies can be stored out of the way in the base of a gynecology chair, keeping them within arm's reach when a provider needs them.

Mobility

Some gynecology chairs are set up on wheels for easy movement throughout a practice, and this can be especially helpful if you are planning for growth and expansion. Locking features will keep the exam chairs in place during procedures.

Adjustability

The adjustability of a gynecology chair is one of its most important features. A doctor may want to sit and talk with a patient before an exam, and a chair that can move from a sitting to a reclining position makes this easier. 

Adjusting the height of an exam chair is also important when considering the different heights of providers. The ability to raise and lower the chair to maximize comfort during the procedure is crucial for both patient and provider. 

Adjustable chairs reduce unnecessary strain on medical staff; they can also be especially helpful for patients with mobility issues in order to get in and out of the chairs safely.

Stirrups

Stirrups are one of the defining features of gynecology exam chairs. They may be permanently affixed to the chair or detachable. Stirrups should be sturdy and built to withstand wear and tear while safely securing the patient's legs during a procedure. 

Stirrups can minimize patient movement during delicate exams and procedures, enabling medical providers to work more efficiently.

Our Pick for the Best Gynecology Chair 

The LuxMed LUKO OB GYN Swivel Electric 4 Motor Treatment Chair is a standout choice for providers thanks to its sturdy construction, features, and options.

This gynecology exam chair boasts four motors to control the height, backrest, seat inclination, and footrest. The narrow base allows providers to stand close to the chair during procedures, and the chair can also be adjusted to a completely flat bed position. 

High-quality faux-leather upholstery is offered in five different colors, and the chair is constructed for a weight capacity of up to 395 pounds.

Both the headrest and armrests are removable, and this exam chair can be used in a variety of settings beyond obstetrics and gynecology. Its versatility makes it a favorite for many medical practices and spas.

At Spa Source, we stand proudly behind all of the products and equipment we offer, and we provide support with repair techs in all 50 states as well as Canada. Additionally, we offer a 60-day return period to ensure your complete satisfaction.

Contact us today to learn more about our exam chairs and other products, and let us help you find the right fit for your office.