FIGIJ and NASPAG Advocacy Statement-Eliminating the Persistent Misconception of the “Virgin Hymen”

Abstract

This advocacy statement endeavors to clarify the concept of the hymen as a symbol of “virginity.” The anatomic variants of this structure precludes any correlation to prior sexual activity and the value of physical assessment of this structure is thus questioned. Moreover, physical examination of the hymen is painful, traumatic, and humiliating and is a form of gender-based violence. This statement exhorts various sectors—governments, educators, the medical community, and the general public—to discard the concept of the “virgin hymen,” avoid its use when documenting sexual abuse, and provide progressive education to affirm female sexuality.