VIRGINAL MEMBRANE Meaning and
Definition
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A virginal membrane, also commonly known as a hymen, is a thin, elastic fold of tissue that partially covers the opening of the vagina in females. It is situated at the lower end of the genital opening, typically surrounding the external urethral opening and vaginal entrance. The membrane is composed of a combination of connective tissue and blood vessels.
The primary function of the virginal membrane is not well understood, as it does not have a specific physiological purpose. However, it is traditionally associated with the concept of virginity and has historically been linked to notions of intactness and purity. In some cultures, the virginal membrane is considered a symbol of a woman's innocence or chastity.
The virginal membrane can vary in thickness, shape, and elasticity between individuals. It may be imperforate, meaning it completely covers the vaginal opening, or it may have one or more small openings, known as hymenal perforations. These variations can be the result of genetic factors or can be influenced by activities such as physical exercise, tampon use, or sexual intercourse. It is important to note that the absence or presence of a virginal membrane is not an accurate indicator of an individual's sexual history or experience.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VIRGINAL MEMBRANE
- cirginal membrane
- birginal membrane
- girginal membrane
- firginal membrane
- vurginal membrane
- vjrginal membrane
- vkrginal membrane
- vorginal membrane
- v9rginal membrane
- v8rginal membrane
- vieginal membrane
- vidginal membrane
- vifginal membrane
- vitginal membrane
- vi5ginal membrane
- vi4ginal membrane
- virfinal membrane
- virvinal membrane
- virbinal membrane
Etymology of VIRGINAL MEMBRANE
The word "virginal membrane" typically refers to the hymen, a membranous or fleshy tissue that partially covers the opening of the vagina in females. The term "virginal" is derived from the Latin word "virgo", which means "a maiden or virgin". It is used to describe anything associated with a virgin or virginity.
The word "membrane" originated from the Latin "membrana", meaning "parchment". A membrane, in general, refers to a thin, flexible layer or sheet of tissue that covers, lines, or connects different parts of an organism. In the context of the hymen, it describes the thin tissue that partially covers the vaginal opening and is associated with female virginity.
It is important to note that the concept of the hymen as an indicator of virginity has been widely discredited by medical professionals.
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