THE VULVA: THE PERINEUM

The perineum is the hairless area of skin between the bottom of the labia and the anus (the opening for evacuation of the bowels). This region is often sensitive to touch, pressure, and temperature and may be a source of sexual arousal.

The opening of the vagina is covered by a thin tissue membrane called the hymen. The hymen, which has no known function, typically has perforations in it that allow menstrual flow to pass from the body at puberty.

Historically, it has been important for a woman to have an intact hymen at the time of marriage as proof of her virginity. In some societies, a bride who does not have an intact hymen is returned to her parents, subjected to public ridicule, physically punished, or even put to death. In modern Japan and Italy, plastic surgeons are kept busy by reconstructing the hymens of many engaged women to create "neovirginity" for those who wish to conceal their sexual histories from their future husbands.

Contrary to the fears of some females, a doctor cannot usually tell if they are virgins by conducting a pelvic examination. The presence or absence of an intact hymen is not an accurate indication of prior sexual behavior. The hymen may be broken or stretched at an early age by various exercises or by inserting fingers or objects in the vagina. Some females are born with only a partial hymen or none at all. In addition, intercourse does not always tear the hymen; instead, it may simply stretch it. Under most circumstances, the first intercourse experience for a girl or women is not painful or marked by a great deal of bleeding. The excitement of the moment is usually enough so that the pressure on the hymen is barely noticed.

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Men's Health Erectyle Dysfunction