Hymen
The membranous fold at the entrance to the vagina. The 'maiden-head'.
Annular hymen: A hymen that is partially perforated before the initial coitus by natural forces to permit the discharge of menstrual fluid. Such a hymen is likely to be ringshaped or annular.
Artificial hymen: A membrane that is fashioned to seal the vagina before marriage so that the woman will appear to be a virgin. This type of plastic surgery is commonly practised in cultures, such as Japan, where an intact hymen is regarded as a virtue for a bride.
Cribiform hymen: A hymen which is essentially intact although it contains numerous pinpoint openings that permit drainage of the menstrual flow.
Fibrous hymen: A hymen which is abnormally thick and tough, requiring a surgical incision to permit the woman to consummate intercourse because the hymen resists penile penetration.
Perforated hymen: A hymen which is neither ruptured nor intact but one that contains an opening, such as an annular hymen.
Ruptured hymen: A hymen which is no longer intact, usually because it has been penetrated by a penis during initial intercourse. Other reasons may include gynaecological examination, bicycle riding, horse riding, or simply congenital condition.
Septate hymen: A hymen which has an opening blocked only by a vertical fold of tissue in the middle.
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