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Question:
It's pretty simple, really. I've been emailing a boy in England (16) and he admitted to me that he did not know what a hymen was. I sent him two links about hymens, but I couldn't find anything to really state WHAT it was. I really don't know how to explain it and I've been trying to find a simple explanation on the Internet but no luck so far. I just told him it's a thin layer of skin inside but I have to admit, I really don't know what it is for.
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Answer:
by Konstance McCaffree: (06/19/2004)
Your answer was a pretty good start. The word "inside" is a little confusing so I'll give an explanation.
The "hymen" is a thin layer of skin that lays around and somewhat over the opening into the vagina. The vagina is a warm, dark, moist area that may develop infection if it is introduced into the vagina so the hymen is probably an evolutionary throwback to when bodies were exposed to more germs than they are now. Scientists don't think the hymen really has a function as much nowdays.
The opening to the vagina is one of three in the area of the female called the vulva. The urinary opening (urethra) and the anus are the other two. Because the vaginal opening is in the middle it may have needed more protection.
The hymen does not cover the opening into the vagina like a drum skin fits over the top of the instrument. It actually is softer, has holes in it, and during intercourse it gets pushed to one side rather than broken. If it didn't have holes in it, a woman couldn't release menstrual blood during her period.
Hopefully this information will help you explain what ever he needs to know about the hymen.Reviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team
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