What is the hymen? Are there still myths about the hymen circulating in society? If so, what are they?
The hymen is a mucous membrane tissue located at the entrance of the vagina. Most often, it does not resemble a membrane covering the vaginal opening, but rather a fold, encircling the vaginal entrance like a ring or a semicircle. The Swedish Association for Sexuality Education uses the anatomically more accurate term "vaginal corona" instead of hymen. A completely closed hymen covering the vagina is a rare condition that requires medical attention, as menstrual blood cannot flow out during menstruation, it accumulates, leading to potential health problems.
The hymen has no function and contains no nerves. And it is by no means proof of virginity. Science has long affirmed this, yet from Eastern countries and their tales, the belief still persists that the hymen guarantees purity. I remember a tale where, after the wedding night, the groom was supposed to show a bloody sheet to the guests, but the sheet was clean. So he cut his palm and stained it with blood.
If sexual intercourse occurs willingly between consenting adults, a stained sheet is more of an exception than a rule. Blood may appear if intercourse occurs against the woman's will (a dry mucous membrane can be easily damaged), if the girl is very young, or if there are anatomical anomalies in the woman.
In what cases can the hymen be damaged? Does this affect health, self-esteem, or other aspects?
The hymen is very often damaged even before the first sexual intercourse, and girls are surprised why there is no blood. We should debunk this myth, explaining that it can be damaged during sports (yoga, gymnastics, horse riding, cycling, etc.), during trauma, when using menstrual hygiene products (tampons, cups), or during masturbation. And there is nothing shameful or dangerous about it, neither in general nor for a woman's reproductive health.
What consequences can the use of disposable tampons or menstrual cups cause?
The greatest danger posed by tampon use is the risk of toxic shock syndrome. To prevent this, it is recommended to use tampons with the lowest possible absorbency, change them at least every 4 hours, not use them continuously during menstruation, and combine them with other hygiene products. Tampons also dry out the vaginal mucous membrane, increasing the risk of vaginal infections.
The menstrual cup is a safe alternative, as confirmed by studies from around the world. The greatest benefits are observed in Africa, where the cup "pays for itself" not only due to a one-time investment for at least 10 years, but also saves water and soap, as there is no need to wash stained clothes or bedding, and girls and young women can avoid missing school. In conditions of poor sanitation, using a cup during menstruation reduces the incidence of urogenital infections.
Women with an IUD should use the cup with more caution. Although there are no official conclusions, there are indications that the IUD can shift when using a cup.
What is your personal opinion on disposable and reusable menstrual products?
My mother gave me a cup about 10 years ago. It's a gift every girl should receive from her mother, along with an honest conversation about menstruation, its significance, and the various hygiene product options.
In Mexico, a girl's first period is a celebration not only for the family but for the entire community, and on that occasion, she receives cloth sanitary pads embroidered with the most beautiful flowers and symbols by the hands of the closest women. And it is said that women there do not know what PMS or menstrual cramps are...
The cost and environmental aspects are also very important. The average price of a cup is about 20 euros, and it is suitable for use for about 10 years. Thus, compared to the amounts that would be spent on disposable pads and tampons, it constitutes only 5-7 percent. Approximately 90 percent less plastic is used, and how much less waste remains!
What products would you recommend for girls when they start their first period?
For young girls starting their periods, I recommend exploring all available hygiene product options. The first cycles often bring anxiety about leakage. It has been proven that all modern hygiene products, including the cup and reusable cloth pads, differ little in terms of leakage risk. All that remains is to try and choose what is most acceptable and suitable.
A 2019 US study on the use of alternative hygiene products found that if 14-18 year old girls used a menstrual cup for at least 4 months (it takes time to get used to and master), they chose to continue using it after the experiment. In addition, their understanding of their bodies and cycles significantly improved. I believe this is also a strong argument in favor of the cup.
Many manufacturers offer the smallest, softer cups for young girls.
What would you, as not only a midwife, but also a woman and a mother of a daughter, wish for girls, young women, and women?
Menstruation is a gift. Not only because of fertility. Modern science is interested in menstrual blood, especially the stem cells found in it. Japanese scientists have already presented the first results, where menstrual blood stem cells become heart cells and can be used in cardiology. What is also amazing is that the results of the experiment with menstrual blood stem cells were 100 times better than with stem cells extracted from bone marrow.
I wish for you to shed shame, uncleanliness, and other negative attitudes about periods. Let's be interested, talk, and normalize them. Let's be proud of them and all WOMEN.
I join Agnė's wish and invite you to create a new tradition that spreads ideas of accepting one's body, allowing oneself to feel the energies accompanying the menstrual cycle, using reusable menstrual products, and the joy of being a woman.
Author: Jurgita Matuizienė
The article was published in the magazine "Moters savaitgalis" in March 2020, No. 3.
