Still a virgin? Know what kind of hymen you have

The hymen is shrouded in myth. A common misconception is that a woman's "intact" hymen guarantees her virginity. However, hymens can ‘break’ for a number of reasons other than sexual activity. In fact, there are so many variants in the hymen that some female infants are born without one.

“The hymen is a thin membrane that surrounds the opening of a woman's vagina. Typically it is shaped like a half moon, leaving space for menstrual blood to flow out. The hymen seldom "breaks" in one event. Rather, it's thinned, stretched, and torn over time,” says Dr. Maya Modi, Gynaecologist, Author of Reverse your age.

1. Normal hymen

This normal hymen allows the menstrual blood to flow out of the vagina.

2. Imperforate hymen

Imperforate hymen is when this membrane completely covers the vagina. Thus blocking the flow of menstrual blood. This type needs surgical intervention.

3. Microperforate hymen

A microperforate hymen is one in which the hymen, which normally covers the entire vaginal opening, has a single tiny hole in it.

4. Septate hymen

When your hymen has an extra piece of skin or tissue running through it, creating two separate holes rather than one, this condition is known as a septate hymen.

5. Cribriform hymen

The type of hymen that has numerous tiny holes and can affect menstrual flow, intercourse, and tampon use is called a cribriform hymen. Cribriform hymen can sometimes disappear on its own or be treated with a simple procedure termed a hymenectomy.

6. Parous introitus hymen

A complete absence of hymen is known as Parous introitus hymen. It is commonly seen in women who’ve given birth.

“Some women are not born with hymen. Nobody can tell whether you're a virgin based on your hymen. Virgins certainly don't necessarily have a hymen. Hymens don't break, they may tear. In many cases, the hymen may wear down gradually during other activities,” says Dr. Modi.

1. Only a few experience pain when the hymen is torn.

2. They do have a little bleeding, but not as the same as menstrual bleeding.

3. Certain physical activities and sports, for example, can stretch the membrane and cause it to thin.

4. Introducing tampons or a menstrual cup, may cause pain or discomfort.

5. Deep vaginal penetration sex may cause pain. It may or may not happen with everyone.

The hymen can break, tear, or stretch for a number of reasons including sexual activity. Other activities like horseback riding, gymnastics, cycling, using tampons or a pelvic examination. Since the hymen is a tiny thin skin, the amount of blood should not be much. And it shouldn't cause too much pain. If you experience excessive pain and bleeding, it’s advised to contact your doctor to look for underlying sexual health conditions.

Also Read: Sex education: 7 interesting facts about clitoris including the "one job" it has