A Hymen Exam Cannot Prove Whether You Have Had Vaginal Sex
Intimate HealthArticleWHO says so-called virginity testing has no scientific merit and should not be performed.
If someone says a physical examination can prove whether you have had vaginal sex, that claim is not supported by medical evidence.1
Myth: hymen appearance proves it
WHO1 states that inspecting the hymen or performing a “two-finger” examination cannot establish a person’s history of vaginal intercourse. These are methods used in so-called virginity testing.1
The test has no medical justification
WHO1 explains that “virginity” is a cultural concept, not a clinical diagnosis. It recommends ending this practice entirely and describes harms to physical and mental health and social wellbeing.1
A symptom that needs healthcare deserves a conversation about that symptom. Ask a healthcare professional to explain the purpose of any proposed examination and discuss your concerns in private.
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Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- World Health Organization, 2018United Nations agencies call for ban on virginity testing (opens in a new tab)abcde
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