What is the meaning of Hymenoplasty?
Hymenoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure. It is also known as hymenorrhaphy or
revirginization. It involves the repair or restoration of the hymen. Construction of the hymen in women born without it is also called hymenoplasty.
What is Hymen?
The hymen is a ring-like membrane that covers the
vaginal opening. The hymen, like the appendix, does not have any function- it is redundant. It is not impenetrable, an opening in between is present for the flow of blood and vaginal secretions. The hymen can be thin and flexible or thick and rigid. Some women are also born without it.
Reasons for hymenoplasty
In most cases, the reason for hymenoplasty is psychological comfort. Though the membrane does not have any physical function, its psychological significance is great. Some of the reasons are:
- Restoration of virginity-Across the world, many cultures links the hymen to virginity. It is believed that the rupture of the hymen during intercourse followed by bleeding is proof of the bride’s virginity. Women who have had pre-marital sexual activity opt for the procedure for this reason. In cases of sexual assault, hymenoplasty gives women the comfort that they have been physically restored to what they were before the incident.
- Enhancing sexual pleasure-Some women, after childbirth does not experience sexual pleasure due to the muscles becoming flaccid. In such cases, vaginal rejuvenation is performed along with hymenoplasty. This helps in enhancing the sexual experience for the woman.
- Medical conditions- If the hymen is very rigid and does not have a perforation for the flow of blood or secretions, a small hole is made. In women who do not have a hymen, the membrane is constructed.
The Procedure Details
Hymenoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure. It is performed by cosmetic surgeons under local anaesthesia. The procedure takes about 1-2 hours. The patient is discharged immediately and can continue with her daily routine from the next day. Some women may experience bleeding or pain. There are two types of procedures:
- In case of a tear, the edges of the membrane are cut, and the remaining membrane is stitched back.
- In case the hymen is missing, a new hymen is constructed using a piece of the vaginal lining.
In both the procedures, the original and artificial membrane cannot be distinguished.
Hymenoplasty has been present from the time of
Egyptian civilization. This simple procedure is being conducted from centuries to boost the confidence of women, provide them with psychological comfort and protect them from the harshness of society. It is a completely safe procedure with minimal complications. Choose an experienced and certified doctor to guide you and perform the surgery so that you can be tension-free.
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