An imperforate hymen is a rare condition that affects around one to two percent of girls. If you are new to this term or if you are looking to educate yourself on the condition, this article provides all the necessary information.
You will learn about the cause of an imperforate hymen, the symptoms, the diagnosis process, and the possible treatments available.
Consult a medical professional for expert advice and guidance whenever you are in doubt. If you are on the hunt for the best experts in the area, book an appointment at Adolescent Gynecology in South Miami, Florida.
But first, here is everything you need to know about the mentioned condition.
What is an Imperforate Hymen?
The condition where the patient’s vagina lacks a normal opening is called an imperforate hymen. According to the statistics, around one to two percent of girls experience this condition.
The thin membrane around the opening of the vagina is called the hymen. In healthy patients, the hymen is a tiny and circular opening located in the center. The word “imperforate” describes the lack of a standard opening.
There are two types of imperforate hymen. These include:
- Partially imperforate: The patient’s vagina has a tiny opening that is blocked with added tissue. (Many believe the hymen is blocking the opening in this case)
- Completely imperforate
When the patient’s hymen lacks an opening, the vaginal canal is blocked. Typically, doctors will diagnose this medical condition when the patient reaches her teen years or when she gets her first menstrual cycle.
The good news is that an imperforate hymen is not considered a severe medical disorder. Minor surgery can easily treat this condition.
Choosing a reliable clinic with trained professionals is crucial. We suggest reaching out to OB-GYN Specialists of South Miami for expert results.
What are the Imperformate Hymen Symptoms?
How can you find out whether the hymen is blocking the opening?
Below, you will find some of the most common imperforate hymen symptoms.
Remember, the signs will vary depending on the life stage of the girl. For instance, newborns may have specific symptoms, while teen girls may notice other signs. In newborns, the hymen is blocking the opening if the doctor notices a bulge in the patient’s hymenal membrane. In young girls, the symptoms of this condition include:
- Experiencing serious abdominal pain.
- Missing the first menstrual cycle.
- Amenorrhea, or menstrual flow restriction.
- Experiencing back pain.
- Having difficulties with bowel movements.
- Issues during urination, usually at the time of the initial menstrual cycle.
- Feeling bloated or “full” in the lower abdomen.
If your child has a closed hymen, she will not be able to use tampons. However, if the imperforate hymen is partial, she will not experience severe problems with her menstrual cycle, but she will likely find it challenging to put in tampons. Moreover, girls with closed hymen may complain about abdominal and back pain. On the bright side, imperforate hymen treatment will solve these concerns.
What Causes an Imperforate Hymen?
The exact cause of a closed hymen is unknown. Some girls are simply born with this condition.
According to exerts, this condition may develop during embryological development due to the improper formation of the hymenal membrane.
Imperforate Hymen Treatment and Diagnosis
Although this condition may sound concerning, solving the issue is possible. Usually, the imperforate hymen treatment involves a minor surgical procedure during which extra tissue covering the hymen is removed. Typically, this surgical procedure can be performed in infancy. If the condition is diagnosed later in life, surgery can be performed at the time of the diagnosis.
Book an Appointment Today
Our team of experts at OB-GYN Specialists of South Miami will help you with any questions or concerns about your overall health and well-being. If you are worried about the health of your child, do not hesitate and reach out to us today.