Question

The presence or absence of hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity or sexual experience.
A. True
B. False

Answer 1

Hymen is a thin membrane like structure which surrounds the opening to the vagina. It is like a crescent in shape. This shape allows the menstrual blood to leave the vagina. First sexual intercourse or strenuous exercise can tear the hymen layer.

Complete Answer:
- The hymen is similar in structure to vagina. It is a thin piece of mucosal tissue which surrounds the external vaginal opening. It is the part of external genitalia.
- Estrogens’ causes the change in the structure and appearance and make it elastic.
- The hymen can tear off during the first penetrative intercourse. This tearing can result in pain and temporary bleeding or spotting.
- Variations can occur in the hymen membrane from thin and stretchy to thick and rigid. It can even be completely absent. The hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity. A virginity test can only prove the virginity. Minor injuries in the hymen can heal without any visible signs of injury. A hymen can be surgically restored by hymenorrhaphy.

So the correct answer is (A). It’s true that the presence or absence of hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity or sexual experience.

Note: The hymen can stretch or tear by the use of tampons, menstrual cups or pelvic examination. Regular physical activity or sexual intercourse can also lead to tearing of hymen. Insertion of multiple fingers into the vagina or gymnastic activities or horse riding can lead to tearing of hymen.