The Life of Hymen: Hymenal Remnants and Hymenoplasty

You know when you get those Facebook “memories” that show you doing something humiliating from ten years ago? And no matter how old you are now, you feel like you were just shy of babyhood back then? We look different over time, the vagina region is no exception.

What’s a Hymen, Anyway?

The hymen is a membrane that partially closes the opening of the vagina. The hymen stretches and sometimes tears with coitus or trauma to the area. This is a normal change to the anatomy and may alter the appearance of the opening of the vagina, especially in the case where tears have occurred. Stretching and tears causing changes in the appearance of the hymen can also occur with vaginal deliveries.

When Life Hands You Hymens

The residual or stretched hymen does not require treatment and is a common and normal change. Treatment is an option if the appearance or feel is bothersome. Some women experience discomfort from rubbing or pulling of the tissue with intercourse or with tampon use. Some may be displeased with the appearance of the excess tissue at the vaginal opening that may have not been previously noticeable.

Excision of the bothersome hymenal tissue (hymenectomy) can be performed to remove the excess tissue, enhance comfort and appearance. Hymenectomy is typically performed in the office with oral sedation and takes up to 60 minutes. Dissolvable sutures are placed and patients are to avoid sexual intercourse for about 6 weeks.

In cases where the hymen has been stretched or torn from unwanted trauma or rape, hymenoplasty can be done to surgically restore the hymen. This procedure also typically takes about 60 minutes and is performed in the office with dissolvable sutures. An in person visit with a pelvic exam is needed to determine the best treatment options for each individual patient.

Typically, only a short course of pain medication and time off from work is needed.