INTRODUCTION
- Hymenoplasty or Hymenorraphy is a surgical reconstruction or repair of the hymen membrane (ring-like skin covering the entrance to the vagina).
- Intact hymen in some cultures or places is the basis of a woman’s virginity. Blood on wedding sheets after the first sexual intercourse following the marriage is recongised as a proof of a woman’s virginity.
- The tearing and bleeding of the hymen cannot be used as a genuine confirmation of virginity. Some women tear their hymen membrane during vigorous exercise or due to use of tampons.
- Various techniques of hymenoplasty:
- Suturing the torn hymen (true repair of hymen) :
- This is a very delicate surgery that has to be done with precision and the surgeon must ensure durability of the result.
- Dr Ng prefers double repair method. A more durable methodology.
- Vaginal lining flap :
- Done by cutting a piece of vaginal lining to reinforce the hymen and sometimes this is combined with the injection of a gelatin capsule to fake bleeding during sexual intercourse.
- Suturing the torn hymen (true repair of hymen) :
SUITABLE CANDIDATES
- Patients who require an intact Hymen for personal, cultural or religious purposes.
CONCURRENT PROCEDURES
- Patients who undergo this procedure may also request labiaplasty, laser vaginal rejuvenation and G-spot augmentation.
ANAESTHESIA
- A combination of local and intravenous sedation (The procedure can be assisted by an anaesthetist according to patient preference).
DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE
- Administration of sedation and local anaesthesia.
- Identification of torn edges of the hymen followed by a repair using absorbable sutures in two layers.
- Surgical duration : 1 hour
- Home on the same day
POST OPERATIVE CARE
- Medication : Oral and topical antibiotics, analgesics (pain relief), anti-swelling medication
- Sanitary padding for 2-3 days for residual discharge.
- Avoid activities that will exert pressure to the groin for 2-4 weeks.
- Earliest time for sexual activity : 2-3 weeks.
RISK AND CAUTION
- Infection
- Swelling
- Bleeding