Where is the hymen located?
The hymen is a piece of vaginal mucosa (membrane) that is locate across the lower section of your vagina. It is tightly stretched and allows blood to freely pass through.
How can a hymen become teared?
The hymen may tear during intense physical activities such as sports, horseback riding, or bicycling. Tampon use can also result in a tear of the hymen. Bleeding or pain may occur when a hymen has been torn.
How is the hymen restored?
The hymen is actually reconstructed using advanced surgical procedures.
What does hymenoplasty involve?
A hymenoplasty procedure alters the positioning of the hymenal ring and tissues so they are closer together. Following the removal of the torn sections, the remaining edges of the hymen are stitched together. Over time, the newly formed hymenal ring will fuse together.The new hymen will eventually take the shape of the original one prior to tearing.
What are the complications?
Complications associated with Hymenoplasty are rare. In some cases, patients may experience lower sensation around the surgical site, or bleeding and infection.
What is the length of the recovery period?
Recovery following a hymenoplasty procedure will generally take two weeks. During this period, pain may be experienced when engaging in sexual intercourse. It is recommended to wait at least 3 months for the surgical site to fully heal before attempting sexual intercourse.
What are realistic expectations for the results of the procedure?
Hymenoplasty results in a completely reconstructed hymen.