A hand-held, manually-operated, surgical instrument designed to mechanically manipulate the position of the uterus during a gynaecological intervention (e.g., laparoscopic hysterectomy), to enable uterine control and improved visibility of the pelvic anatomy. The device typically consists of a probe which is positioned within an introduction sheath/handpiece and includes an illuminator for transillumination of the uterus/cervix during laparoscopy (through the diaphanoscopy effect); it typically includes a suction line (for aspiration and/or tissue retention/manipulation). This is a reusable device intended to be sterilized prior to use.