The hymen is a thin web of tissue that partially or completely covers the vaginal opening. This ring-shaped membrane is usually thin and flexible but sometimes thicker and more rigid. A woman is born with a hymen and is where the outer vaginal tube and inner vaginal tube meet during development in the womb. Contrary to what many believe, except in rare cases, the hymen is not an impenetrable seal. The strength and amount of tissue varies considerably.
Medically, a torn or damaged hymen is not irrefutable confirmation of virginity loss by sexual activity. Depending on its strength, hymen injury or separation can be caused by normal everyday activities such as strenuous athletics, horseback or bicycle riding, a simple gynecological examination with speculum or gloved finger insertion, or masturbation. Even placing a tampon into the vagina may rupture it. In some cases, a hymen may not be present at all, as approximately 1 in 1,000 women are born without one.
Hymen restoration is a simple outpatient procedure that can be done in our office procedure center under local anesthesia. Sedation is available for comfort. Dr. Guerette uses a laser to mobilize the remaining hymenal tissue. Dr. Guerette then uses specialized suture techniques, with sutures that dissolve, to restore the hymenal ring to a normal size and shape and appearance so that it looks no different than a normal intact hymen.
In rare cases If there is not enough skin to restore the hymen, or if the hymen is nonexistent, Dr. Guerette can create one, using either some of the body’s own thin vaginal skin or a synthetic tissue. A small blood supply may be added, either artificial or the patient’s own taken from a piece of vaginal flap, thus simulating the traditional bleeding upon subsequent penetration.
You are able to return to normal daily activities immediately but strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for 2 weeks. During the first 48 to 72 hours, there may be some slight bleeding, but this is perfectly normal.
Full healing takes approximately six weeks. There will be no visible signs of surgery and it will be impossible to tell the difference between a natural hymen and a reconstructed one. Once you are healed all the sensations and events associated with virginal, first time sex may be experienced.
Dr. Guerette is a double board-certified pelvic reconstructive surgeon with over 20 years of experience performing vaginal rejuvenation and reconstruction.
Dr. Guerette and The Intimate Wellness Institute team understands. A hymenoplasty can be a delicate subject to discuss. Rest assured that our team is familiar with the many reasons patients ask for this procedure and fully understands any discomfort and shyness in regard to this subject. Our goal is to help you and make you as comfortable and confident as possible.
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