Synonyms
Hymen = hymen reconstruction = reconstruction of the hymen
Introduction
A hymen is a thin membrane located at the entrance of the vagina and surrounding it. During the first sexual intercourse it usually tears in a star shape and causes a slight bleeding in every second to third woman. In some cultures virginity still plays a major role until the first wedding night. Thus, women who have already had sexual intercourse can use the restoration of the hymen to feign virginity and escape cultural conflicts.
What are the reasons for a hymen reconstruction?
There are no medical or health reasons for restoring the hymen. The decision to have this procedure performed is usually made from a cultural perspective. Especially in Muslim cultures, the woman should not have sexual intercourse until marriage.
An intact hymen and bleeding during the first sexual intercourse prove the virginity. Women who belong to a culture in which the hymen is considered a sign of “purity” are thus faced with a cultural conflict if they have already had sexual intercourse. Out of desperation and fear, many women therefore decide to have the hymen surgically restored in order to become anatomically virgin again – despite having already had sexual intercourse.
Do I need to prepare for the procedure?
You do not need to prepare yourself for hymen reconstruction – except for shaving the genital area. You should not have your period at the time of the procedure. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, you should discuss with your doctor beforehand how far you can stop.
Procedure of the surgery
A local anaesthetic is usually sufficient for the procedure. However, if you wish for something else, the whole procedure can also take place in twilight sleep. First the vagina is disinfected.
Then the surgeon will expose the torn hymen. Usually it is torn in a star shape. The remains of the remaining hymen are sutured together with self-dissolving sutures during the operation.
For this purpose, it may be necessary to first smooth out the remnants with a laser scalpel. After suturing together, a ring-shaped opening is formed again, which represents an intact hymen. Since the restoration of the hymen can also be performed under general anesthesia if desired, we recommend our page on: General Anesthesia – Procedure, Risks and Side Effects
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