Medicinal agents were applied to the vaginal mucosa, cervix, endocervical canal and uterine cavity by various methods.  Solutions were introduced via injections and on wads of cotton;  Powders through specula, on wads of cotton, capsules, suppositories, and by insufflation.
This aluminum applicator, as depicted in Armstrong’s 1894 catalog, has rough spiral striations at the distal end that snags and holds surgical lint or wool.