Hymen
Overview
The hymen is a membrane
that surrounds or partially covers the external vagina
l opening. It forms part of the vulva
, or external genitalia. The size of the hymenal opening increases with age. Although an often practiced method, it is not possible to confirm with certainty that a girl or woman is a virgin
by examining her hymen. In cases of suspected rape
or child sexual abuse
, a detailed examination of the hymen may be performed, but the condition of the hymen alone is often inconclusive.
Membrane
-In biology:* Biological membrane* Cell membrane, a biological type of Membrane ** Inner membrane** Outer membrane * The two fetal membranes** amnion** chorion* Basement membrane* Mucous membrane* Serous membrane...
that surrounds or partially covers the external vagina
Vagina
The vagina is a fibromuscular tubular tract leading from the uterus to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the cloaca in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other invertebrates also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the...
l opening. It forms part of the vulva
Vulva
The vulva consists of the external genital organs of the female mammal. This article deals with the vulva of the human being, although the structures are similar for other mammals....
, or external genitalia. The size of the hymenal opening increases with age. Although an often practiced method, it is not possible to confirm with certainty that a girl or woman is a virgin
Virginity
Virginity refers to the state of a person who has never engaged in sexual intercourse. There are cultural and religious traditions which place special value and significance on this state, especially in the case of unmarried females, associated with notions of personal purity, honor and worth...
by examining her hymen. In cases of suspected rape
Rape
Rape is a type of sexual assault usually involving sexual intercourse, which is initiated by one or more persons against another person without that person's consent. The act may be carried out by physical force, coercion, abuse of authority or with a person who is incapable of valid consent. The...
or child sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse is a form of child abuse in which an adult or older adolescent uses a child for sexual stimulation. Forms of child sexual abuse include asking or pressuring a child to engage in sexual activities , indecent exposure with intent to gratify their own sexual desires or to...
, a detailed examination of the hymen may be performed, but the condition of the hymen alone is often inconclusive.
Unanswered Questions
