What is the Female Hymen?
The Hymen forms part of the external vagina, and is a mucous membrane. The name “Hymen” comes from the ancient Greek word “Hymenaeus,” Which means “vaginal flap.” This mucous membrane is formed when a thin layer of tissue around the vagina divides prior to birth, creating the opening of the vagina.
The shape of the hymen varies and has several different formations. There are crescent-shaped, annular, or circumferential and sometimes sleeve-like shapes all of which are the more common forms.
Some of the less common shapes are, fimbriated or denticular, septate, cribriform, or microperforate, labial, or vertical and imperforate.
It is estimated that in 1 in 2000 women, the hymen fails to develop an opening. This is known as an imperforate hymen. If an opening does not form before a female reaches the age of menstruation, surgery of the hymen will be required to allow menstrual fluids to escape. This procedure is known as a Hymenotomy.
When a girl reaches puberty the hymen tends to become elastic in nature. The hymen can be easily ruptured through physical activities such as horse riding and from riding bicycles. The most common cause of ruptured hymens through non sexual activities is from bike riding. The “normal” and most common way that the hymen gets ruptured is through sexual intercourse.
However, there are many reports of women who have not had their hymen break while engaging in sexual intercourse. This may be because the hymen has a good degree of elasticity.
There is a medical procedure called Hymenoplasty, which can repair a damaged hymen. This procedure has become popular with some females.
It is important to point out that the breaking the hymen is in no way an indicator that she has lost her virginity. The only time a girl can lose her virginity is from penetration during sexual intercourse. This means that even if a girl’s hymen has been ruptured, and she has not engaged in any sexual intercourse, she is still a virgin.
Popularity: 3% [?]
Filed Under: Anatomy
Dear Susan
I ask if there sex position for Pregnant women .
please very important
(Sex Positions Animated)