Hymen and Sexual Activity: What You Need to Know

Question
QUESTION: Hello:

Can the hymen still be seen or detected from a gynecological examination even if the women or girl has had intercourse for a number of years?

I thank you for your reply and answer.

ANSWER: Dear Kenneth,

A separated hymen is not an indication of having had intercourse, nor can it prove a loss of virginity. In fact, some women must have their hymen surgically removed before the birth of their first child because they may have one that is so flexible or small, or for whatever reason, that it remains intact during intercourse. So, yes, under these circumstances it would be visible from a GYN exam.

It is also scientific fact that the hymen can be separated for reasons completely unrelated to sexual intercourse. It can separate when the body is stretched strenuously, as in athletics; it can be separated by inserting a tampon during menstruation or through masturbation; and sometimes it is separated for no apparent reason.

I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Brenda:

I want to thank you for your reply. I still need some clarification.  Since the hymen is attached to the sides of the vagina, it would appear that what remains of a separated hymen can still be seen by a GYN examination.
Would you agree?

I thank you for your follow-up reply.

Answer
Dear Kenneth,

I'm sorry for the delay - family crisis.

Although typically there can be remnants seen, I would not say that that would hold true 100% of the time. And there have been unusual cases where there was no hymen detected at all in known virgins.

Hope that helps. Be well.


Brenda