hymen

(hī′mĕn )

To hear audio pronunciation of this topic, purchase a subscription or log in.

[Gr.]
A fold of mucous membrane that partially covers the entrance to the vagina. Contrary to folklore, the presence or absence (or rupture) of the hymen cannot be used to prove or disprove virginity or history of sexual intercourse. Pregnancy has been known to occur even when the hymen is intact.
hymenal (-ăl )
To hear audio pronunciation of this topic, purchase a subscription or log in.
, adj.

There's more to see -- the rest of this topic is available only to subscribers.