Hymen

usgb/ˈhaɪmən/
noun

A thin piece of skin that partly covers the entrance to a girl's vagina and can break when she has sex for the first time.

In some cultures, a woman's virginity is often associated with her hymen.
Visual representation of "hymen" - A thin piece of skin that partly covers the entrance to a girl's vagina and can break when she has sex for the first time.

Often appears as...

  • intact hymen
  • break the hymen
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hymen"
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Cultural Sensitivity

The concept of the hymen is associated with purity in some cultures, but discussing it can be controversial and personal.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
She felt uncomfortable when they discussed the hymen in her biology class.
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Misconception

Some believe the hymen always breaks during first intercourse, but it can vary and may not signify virginity reliably.

Illustration for Misconception
Contrary to popular belief, not all women bleed the first time due to hymen breakage.
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Physical Activity

The hymen can stretch or break due to activities other than sex, like sports, which is a common confusion.

Illustration for Physical Activity
Her doctor explained that her hymen could have torn from gymnastics, not necessarily from sexual activity.
Visual representation of the word "Hymen"

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