hymenectomy

Hymenectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of the hymenal tissue, a membrane that partially or completely covers the vaginal opening in some individuals. It is distinct from hymenoplasty, which aims to reconstruct or modify the hymen.

Indications for hymenectomy are primarily gynecologic and may include imperforate or severely stenosed hymen causing obstruction, cyclic abdominal or pelvic pain, or accumulation of menstrual blood (hematocolpos) in adolescents. The procedure may also be considered to alleviate symptoms from infection, trauma, or congenital hymenal anomalies, or to facilitate access for certain gynecologic examinations or interventions.

Techniques and variants include complete hymenectomy, partial hymenectomy, and hymenotomy (incision with or without excision) depending on the anatomy and the underlying problem. In cases of imperforate hymen, an opening is created by incision and sometimes removal of a portion of tissue to establish patency. The procedure is usually performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia and may be done in an outpatient setting.

Recovery and outcomes vary with the extent of tissue removal but generally involve short-term healing, analgesia, and guidance to avoid inserting objects or engaging in sexual activity for several weeks. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, scarring or stenosis of the vaginal opening, pain, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. As with any gynecologic surgery, informed consent and discussion of potential effects on future sexual function are important.