False Myths About 'Virginity' and the Hymen

In many societies, the notion of virginity holds an important place, often at the heart of cultural, familial, or religious values. It is often associated with honor, marriage, or morality. In some traditions, the hymen is seen as a visible symbol of virginity, and its condition can raise strong social expectations.

However, it is important to distinguish these cultural and spiritual meanings from medical and anatomical realities. Understanding what the hymen really is—and what it is not—allows approaching the subject with respect and without judgment, while avoiding misunderstandings that can weigh on the lives of women and girls.

Virginity in traditions and religions

In many cultures and religions, virginity before marriage is considered an important value. It can symbolize purity, fidelity, or future commitment to a spouse. In these contexts, “preserving” one’s virginity is sometimes seen as a sign of respect towards oneself, one’s family, or one’s faith.

These deeply rooted conceptions belong to the realm of beliefs and values. However, they do not correspond to a measurable medical reality. That is why it is essential to distinguish spiritual and cultural dimensions—which deserve respect—from scientific facts, in order to prevent misunderstandings or myths from having unjust consequences for women.

What is the hymen?

The hymen is a thin membrane located at the entrance of the vagina. Its shape, thickness, and elasticity vary from one person to another. For some, it is barely visible from birth; for others, it may be more marked. All these variations are normal and do not indicate whether a woman has had sexual intercourse or not.

“Virginity tests” and medical certificates

In some cultures, it is still requested that a doctor issue a virginity certificate before marriage. This act often relies on a visual gynecological examination aiming to observe the hymen and note whether it appears “intact” or not.

Clinical examination, limited to external observation, can be difficult to interpret. For a more reliable evaluation, it is important to also consider medical history, because the state of the hymen alone does not allow determination of previous sexual activity.

Note:

• A “open” or elastic hymen can exist without sexual intercourse.

• An “intact” hymen can persist after intercourse.

• Many non-sexual factors can alter its appearance.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that these examinations have no scientific basis and can have social or psychological repercussions for some women.

The hymen and sexual intercourse

Contrary to a widely held belief, the hymen does not necessarily “break” during the first sexual intercourse. It can simply soften or stretch, and sometimes remain intact even after several encounters. Some women experience no pain or bleeding. Others may have an already elastic hymen due to sports, dance, tampon use, or simply their anatomy.

“Virginity tests” and medical certificates

In some cultures, the practice of requesting a doctor to certify that a woman is “virgin” before marriage still exists. This certificate often relies on a gynecological examination to observe the hymen. In some cases, the presence of an “intact” membrane is sought, or an assessment is made to see if a finger or speculum can pass without resistance.

However, these exams cannot prove virginity:

• An “open” or elastic hymen may be present in a woman who has never had intercourse.

• An “intact” hymen may exist in a woman who has already had intercourse.

• Many non-sexual factors (sports, falls, tampon use, etc.) can modify the hymen.

The WHO and several medical associations condemn these practices as they have no scientific basis, can be humiliating, and sometimes put women at risk in their social or family life.

Virginity: a social concept, not a medical one

Virginity has no medical definition: it is a cultural and personal notion. Doctors have no reliable examination to “prove” or “confirm” virginity. So-called “virginity tests” have no scientific value and can be psychologically and physically harmful.

Bleeding: a misleading sign

Bleeding or not during the first intercourse is not proof of virginity. It depends on many factors: lubrication, relaxation, emotional context, or natural anatomical variations.

Why it is important to talk about it

In some contexts, pressure surrounding virginity can lead to fear, shame, or even serious consequences for a woman’s safety or future. Offering reliable information, while respecting everyone’s beliefs and values, helps reduce misunderstandings and protects people’s dignity.

In summary:

• Virginity is a cultural or personal notion, not a measurable medical state.

• The hymen varies greatly from one woman to another.

• Beliefs and traditions can be respected while spreading reliable scientific information.

• “Virginity tests” have no medical basis and should not be used to judge or label a woman.

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Best regards,

Dr. Sandra Yene Amougui