The myth of the hymen that no one has told you

For years, the hymen has been presented to us as a kind of "seal" that covers the vagina and breaks with the first penetration. An image that has fueled myths, fears, and even forms of control over the sexuality of many women. But the anatomical reality is quite different.

The hymen is not a thick membrane located inside the vagina. It is flexible tissue found at the vaginal entrance and, in most cases, is ring-shaped or crescent-shaped, with an opening in the center for fluids such as menstruation to pass through. In fact, it is visible to the naked eye if the vulva is observed with a mirror.

Also, there isn't a single type of hymen. There are many shapes, thicknesses, and sizes. Some people have almost none, while in others it is more visible. Every body is different, and so is the hymen.

Another widespread myth is that the hymen "breaks" with the first sexual intercourse with penetration and causes bleeding. But this does not always happen. The hymen is elastic and often simply changes shape over time. It can be modified by playing sports, using tampons or menstrual cups, masturbating... or for no specific reason.

Therefore, the state of the hymen is not proof of virginity. Among other things, because virginity is not a physical condition, but a cultural concept loaded with social expectations and meanings.

In the same way, this has been one of the key ingredients for perpetuating coitocentrism, which reminds us that knowing one's own body is a powerful tool against misinformation.