The hymen is a remnant of tissue that remains from the formation of genital structures during the embryonic stage of the fetus.
The structure of the hymen varies from person to person. It may be thick or thin, or in some cases, no tissue remnant may be present at all, resulting in no bleeding during the first sexual intercourse.
A hymen examination involves a gynecologist checking for tears or openings in the hymen during an examination. Although the hymen structure varies among individuals, and there may be no bleeding during the first intercourse, small defects can be sufficient to indicate sexual activity.
Some women may have a hymen structure described as "duhula müsait," meaning it is naturally suited for intercourse and does not result in bleeding during the first sexual experience.
A hymen examination is conducted on a gynecological examination table by opening both labia. No instruments are inserted into or outside the vagina during the procedure. The labia are gently opened to visually inspect the hymen.
In our Istanbul clinic, hymen examinations are performed in the lithotomy position. The patient lies on their back with their legs spread to the sides. The labia minora (small lips of the vagina) are gently opened by hand, and the hymen is visually inspected without using any instruments.
Unfortunately, hymen or virginity examinations are recorded in public hospitals. For patients under 18 years of age, it is legally required to document the examination and inform their family.
In public hospitals, a hymen examination and report require an application to the prosecutor's office.
The cost of a hymen examination is the same as a standard gynecological examination, as it does not involve any surgical procedure.
Virginity examinations can only be performed by gynecologists. Only obstetricians and gynecologists are authorized to issue valid reports in both practical and legal contexts.
In public hospitals, it is legally mandatory to inform the family for young women under 18 years of age undergoing hymen examinations. Additionally, sexual activity under the age of 18 is not legally permitted in our country.
There is generally no margin of error in hymen examinations. The location of a tear in the hymen is clearly visible.
Hymen repair can be performed after an examination. In our clinic, the examination and hymen repair procedures are completed within 45 minutes on the same day. For individuals aged 18 and above, no legal guardian is required for hymen repair or examination.