Hymen Reconstruction Surgery

Hymen reconstruction surgery, also known as hymenorrhaphy is the surgical restoration of the hymen (Credit: Lars Inselmann)

Hymen reconstruction surgery, also known as hymenorrhaphy is the surgical restoration of the hymen. It comes from the Greek word hymen meaning membrane and raphe meaning suture. Hymen reduction surgery generally aims to cause bleeding during the wedding night, which is essential in some cultures to prove the bride’s virginity.

Hymen reconstruction surgery includes four different types of procedure:

· Suturing of a tear in the hymen that might be caused by sexual assault. This technique, if done right after the assault, will facilitate healing.

· This is a cosmetic procedure where a membrane without blood supply is created, sometimes including a gelatine capsule of an artificial bloodlike substance. This type of hymen reconstruction surgery is performed a few days before an intended marriage.

· In this procedure, a flap of the vaginal lining, complete with blood supply, is used to create a new hymen. Patients are advised to refrain from penetrative sex for up to three months after the hymen reconstruction surgery.

· The term hymen reconstruction has also been used to describe some varieties of infibulation that require further surgery before penetration is possible.

Hymen reconstruction operations are legal in some countries, while in some these procedures are banned. Infibulation is considered illegal.

Hymen reconstruction surgery also includes Hymenotomy, a minor medical procedure to open or remove the hymen. It is done to treat imperforate hymen or other situations where the hymen is unusually thick or rigid. Hymenotomy helps in normal menstruation or sexual intercourse.