Hymenoplasty

Hymenoplasty is a surgical procedure to restore a torn hymen, a thin membrane that covers the vaginal entrance. The hymen is a thin pink membrane that lies half an inch inside the vagina. Strenuous activities such as bicycle riding, gymnastics, and swimming can cause hymen tears. Usage of tampons during periods and pap smears can also break the hymen.

Generally, women wish to restore their hymen for religious, cultural, or personal reasons. Some women undergo hymenoplasty to get back the intactness of the torn hymen. Also called hymen reconstruction, hymen repair, or hymenorrhaphy, the gynecologist stitches the torn hymen or reconstructs the entire hymen using vaginal tissue.

Causes of Torn Hymen

  • Riding bicycles
  • Climbing trees or jungle gyms
  • Gymnastics or dancing
  • Getting pap smear
  • Getting transvaginal ultrasound
  • Playing on obstacle courses
  • Horseback riding
  • Using tampons or menstrual cups
  • Intercourse

Prepare for Hymenoplasty

The doctor will conduct a physical examination of the patient. The doctor evaluates the hymen while inspecting the vagina, after which the doctor comes up with a personalized treatment plan according to the patient’s needs and medical history. The doctor will be able to figure out if additional grafts will be required to perform the surgery.

Following the measures below is essential to get the best results from hymenoplasty.

  • Avoid using birth control pills 10 days before the surgery.
  • Certain medications, such as ibuprofen and blood thinners, must be avoided before surgery.
  • Age proof that you are above 18 years should be carried on the day of the surgery.
  • Ensure not to drink anything 4-6 hours before the surgery.
  • Wear loose cotton clothing and pack soft sanitary pads that may be helpful in the event of slight bleeding and spotting after surgery.

Procedure

It is an outpatient procedure that will be completed within 1 hour.

  • The anesthetist gives either general or local anesthesia.
  • The gynecologist uses very fine stitches to stitch the broken pieces of the hymen. These stitches are very minute and are self-dissolvable.
  • For hymen reconstruction, in case of insufficient tissue to stitch the hymen, live tissue from the inner labia is used.
  • When a patient lacks suitable tissues for reconstruction, alloplants can be used to replace the hymen.

After Hymenoplasty

The patient is moved to the recovery room, where her vitals are monitored. Generally, people who underwent hymenoplasty are discharged on the same day of the procedure. Complete recovery from the procedure takes 4 to 6 weeks.

  • The doctor suggests antibiotics, laxatives, anti-inflammatories, and acetaminophen to fight pain from the surgery.
  • Refrain from taking a bath for 1-2 days to prevent infection. Gently cleanse the body using a damp cloth.
  • Avoid intercourse and refrain from inserting anything inside the vagina for up to 6 weeks.
  • Consume a balanced diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

Complications of Hymenoplasty

Rush to the gynecologist if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • High fever
  • Swelling
  • Abnormal discharge from the vagina
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Severe pain

If you are planning for the reconstruction of your hymen, contact an expert gynecologist at Matrix Hospital.

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