Myths about women’s health can be strangely devastating for women. One usually underestimated portion of female anatomy is the hymen. 

The hymen is a remnant tissue just inside the opening of the vagina that’s remaining from how the vagina molds during embryonic development. It’s generally seen as a small amount of extra tissue in a crescent-shaped or ring-like shape around the turn of the vaginal opening. Many people might be astonished to learn that the hymen has no proven physiological meaning. 

 For some women, there’s practically no tissue at all. For others, it’s a membrane covering the vaginal opening. That situation is unique, and it can interfere with sex or tampon usage, but it can be removed surgically.

The most common myth around the hymen is that it remains “intact” until it’s divulged during vaginal penetration, which renders it a physical marker of virginity. Though there are many cases where women do experience a small amount of bleeding from hymenal tearing at first intercourse, this is by no means a universal practice, as there are many women who have very little tissue there in the first place. 

Another popular myth is that the hymen is rigid and penetrable. The tissue is stretchy and pliable, which means it does not necessarily tear with penetration. In many cases, some splitting or stretching occurs over time from tampons, gynecological exams, or vigorous exercise. Because of these factors, it’s impossible to tell by examining a woman if she’s a virgin. 

 The idea that virginity can be measured or verified is perhaps the most harmful and damaging myth. Assuming that a woman’s sexual behavior can be inferred from her appearance is demeaning, and cultures that suggest the use of a hymenal exam to test for virginity invite incorrect and unfair judgments about women. In reality, the only way to find out if a woman has had sex is to ask her.