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Urinary Tract Infections
goes through the penis. This is the reason that women are much more susceptible to urinary tract infections (see Sex in Real Life, “Urinary Tract Infections”).
The Introitus and the Hymen The entrance, or introitus (in-TROID-us), of the vagina also lies in the vestibule. The introitus is usually covered at birth by a fold of tissue known as the hymen (HIGH-men). The hymen varies in thickness and extent and is sometimes absent. The center of the hymen is usually perforated, and it is through this perforation that the menstrual flow leaves the vagina and that a tampon is inserted. If the hymen is intact, it will usually rupture easily and tear at several points during the first intercourse, often accompanied by a small amount of blood. If the woman is sexually excited and well lubricated, the rupture of the hymen usually does not cause more than a brief moment’s discomfort. In rare cases a woman has an imperforate hymen, which is usually detected because her menstrual flow is blocked. A simple surgical procedure can open the imperforate hymen.
An intact hymen has been a symbol of “purity” throughout history, a sign that a woman has not had sexual intercourse. Lady Diana Spencer was required to undergo a physical examination to certify that her hymen was intact before her engagement to