The female reproductive system consists of many different tissues and has an important structure that supports sexual intercourse, birth and other biological processes. The hymen is a thin and elastic tissue located at the entrance of the vagina and its biological function has not been fully determined. However, experts believe that this tissue acts as a barrier that protects the vaginal area against external factors and bacteria.
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However, the hymen has been associated with virginity in many cultures throughout history and has been attributed sociocultural meanings. However, scientifically, the belief that the hymen is an indicator of virginity is incorrect. The hymen can tear or stretch as a result of sexual intercourse, masturbation, sports activities and some traumas.
Individuals who want to learn the integrity of the hymen can have information about their health status by having a hymen examination.
What is Hymen?
The hymen is a thin, flexible and membranous tissue located at the entrance of the vagina. In medical terms, this tissue is defined as a structure that protects the vaginal environment from external factors. Some people may not have it at all from birth. In some women, it is flexible and may not tear during sexual intercourse. In some cases, it may rupture during the first intercourse or due to trauma and slight bleeding may occur.
The hymen can have different shapes and structures. The anatomy of each woman's hymen is different, so whether there is bleeding or not depends on the condition and elasticity of the hymen.
Why is the Hymen Ruptured or Damaged?
Sexual intercourse is one of the most common causes. However, bleeding may not occur in every woman because the structure of the hymen varies from person to person. Activities such as intense exercise, horse riding, cycling can cause stretching or tearing of the hymen. Pressure on the vaginal area or the use of a foreign body can cause rupture of the hymen. Situations such as traffic accidents, falls or blows can cause deformation of the hymen.
Hymen rupture may not always be indicated by bleeding or pain. For this reason, a hymen examination is required to get precise information.
The most common symptoms of a ruptured hymen are
- Slight burning or stinging sensation
- Minor bleeding (may not occur in all individuals)
- Short-term discomfort during sexual intercourse
However, in some women, the hymen may be flexible, in which case rupture or bleeding may not occur even if sexual intercourse occurs. Therefore, a gynaecological examination should be performed for definitive diagnosis.
What is Hymen Examination? Where and How is it done?
What is Hymen Examination? Where and How is it done?
Hymen examination is a medical evaluation to check the integrity of the hymen. Thanks to this examination, it can be determined whether the hymen is torn, damaged or stretched.
As a result of the examination, the patient is informed about the current state of the hymen. If desired, hymen stitching can also be performed after the examination. This procedure is only a medical evaluation and is performed with the consent of the patient.
The patient is taken to a special examination table. The examination is performed in the gynaecological position. The vaginal lips are gently parted and the hymen is examined. The whole process is painless and usually completed within 10-15 minutes.
It should be performed in private clinics and by gynaecologists. It is carried out on the basis of confidentiality, protecting the privacy of the patient.
How is hymenoplasty performed?
Hymenoplasty is the surgical repair of the hymen. This procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and no pain is felt.
- Temporary hymenoplasty: It is performed approximately 1 week before sexual intercourse.
- Permanent hymenal suture: It can be done at any time and is permanent until the tissue heals.
In both methods, special suturing techniques are used and re-tearing and bleeding are ensured when sexual intercourse occurs.
When the hymen stitching is performed by a specialist doctor, it gains a natural appearance and is very difficult to notice even in a normal gynaecological examination.
After complete healing, the stitch marks disappear and the hymen regains its natural structure. Unless there is a medical intervention, it is not possible to be understood from the outside. During sexual intercourse, rupture and bleeding occur, so that a situation similar to its former state is created functionally.
For this reason, individuals who have hymen stitching can continue their lives without any worries about this issue.
Ankara Hymen Examination and Prices
Nowadays, many women may want to have hymen examination and suturing due to sociocultural reasons or personal preferences. This practice can help individuals feel more psychologically secure.
Hymen examination prices may vary according to the clinic where the procedure is performed, the doctor's speciality and the procedure applied. You can contact Op. Dr Yeksin Helvacıoğlu Karataş for detailed information and to make an appointment.