What is the Hymen?
The hymen is skin tissue that is located at the opening of the vagina. Women are born with a hymen. It may be circular, have a small opening to the vagina or completely closes the opening of the vagina (imperforate hymen). Many times the hymen may be torn because of trauma to the area or with first sexual intercourse and penetration..
What is a Hymenectomy?
A Hymenectomy is a minor surgical procedure. It can be done as an out-patient in an office or the hospital in the operating room. A hymenectomy is usually indicated when there is a hymen that is complete and which has no opening. That is called an imperforate hymen which blocks the opening of the vagina and may cause problems, such as:
•A buildup and trapped mucus in the vagina (mucocolpos).
•A buildup and trapped menstrual blood in the vagina (hematocolpos).
•A buildup and trapped blood in the uterus (hematometria).
A hymenectomy is also done when there is a thick and rigid hymen present that prevents having sexual intercourse.