Dictionary.net

• The introduction of a finger or fingers into the vagina, for the purpose of examining the condition of the uterus. It is employed to verify the existence or non-existence of pregnancy and its different stages; to detect certain affections or faults of conformation in the genital organs and pelvis; and, during the process of accouchement, to examine into the progress of labour, &c.

1846 - Medical lexicon: a dictionary of medical science
By Robley Dunglison