The female hymen has been very misunderstood. So what even is it?
Factually speaking, it’s a thin membrane at the vaginal opening, but it’s forever been linked to sexual intercourse and the loss of virginity.
WATCH: Emma Chamberlain’s guide on how to feel and look great even when you’re on your period:
But, didja know the hymen doesn’t even break at all?
Yes, your first time having sex can cause a little blood, but that can be caused from completely different reasons, such as lack of lubrication. The hymen doesn’t “pop” like a “cherry” (yep, that’s where that saying comes from), but it does stretch.
It’s also possible to “stretch” or “break” your hymen without even having sex, and these are some ways that could happen…
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TAMPONS
Well, it is goin’ up that hole…
When tampons first became popular, companies had to assure people with their ad campaigns that they’d still be a ‘virgin’ after using them.
Yea, let’s just confirm that you won’t lose your virginity by using a tampon.
INJURY
Monkey bars, playground, working out and even team sports can land you on your butt most times. Well we hate to ‘break’ it to you (sorry) but these types of injuries can stretch the hymen.
But a quick disclaimer! In most cases, you won’t even know it happened.
GROWING
While your body grows, your inside is changing too. As you get older, the membrane that make the hymen tends to grow weaker, and naturally, stretch.
PENETRATIVE MASTURBATION
Just like the tampon, or actually having sex, if something is inserted it may stretch the hymen.
Again, this doesn’t mean you’re not a ‘virgin’ anymore.
ACTIVITIES
Much like sports, activities that have pressure around the vagina (like riding a bike) can stretch the hymen.
At the end of the day, many girls won’t even notice when their hymen breaks. It’s a natural occurrence for any female to go through.
Our advice? Don’t think about it too much and focus on YOU. And remember, ‘breaking’ your hymen doesn’t mean you’re no longer a virgin!
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