Knowledge of Sexuality: A Must-Read -(Bestselling Edition)

Author: Zhang Zhongyuan, An Qu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: The hymen is a hollow membrane covering the external vaginal orifice, about 1-2 mm thick. The front and back surfaces of the hymen are moist mucous membranes, with connective tissue, microvessels, and nerve endings between the two layers. The small hole in the middle is called the hymen aperture. The size of the hymen aperture and the thickness of the membrane can vary from person to person. The diameter of the hymen aperture is approximately 1-1.5 cm, usually round, elliptical, or serrated; some are crescent-shaped with the aperture one side; some are septal with two small holes arranged vertically or horizontally; some have many scattered small holes, like those on a sieve. The hymen can prevent unclean external substances from entering the vagina, serving a protective function for the vagina. Before puberty, due to the low estrogen secreted by the ovaries, the vaginal mucosa is thin, has fewer folds, and has low acidity, making it more susceptible to infection. The hymen plays a protective role in preventing bacteria from invading the vagina. After puberty, with the development of the ovaries and an increase in estrogen levels in the body, the vaginal resistance strengthens, and the hymen gradually loses its function. The hymen aperture is physiologically essential. After a woman matures, her monthly menstrual blood is expelled through this small hole. If the membrane lacks an aperture, the menstrual blood is blocked and cannot be expelled, a medical condition known as hymenolysis. If this is not detected in time, the accumulated menstrual blood in the vagina can gradually spread upward to the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. Through the distal opening of the fallopian tube, it may flow into the abdominal cavity, causing damage to the fallopian tubes, intestinal adhesions, and abdominal infections.