Questioned Virginity Has No Definite Reply

Arch Sex Behav. 2022 May;51(4):2369-2372. doi: 10.1007/s10508-022-02332-5. Epub 2022 Apr 12.

Abstract

Virginity is the nullity of sexual experience in females. However, the use of virginity testing as proof of previous involvement in sexual relations is dependent on having an intact hymen, which refers to a hymen with no signs of previous penetrating injury. Although the quality of this evidence in questioned virginity is extremely poor and considered a violation of human rights, it still constitutes a major facet in medicolegal investigations of sexual assaults. This work evaluates virginity testing as currently practiced in many countries, including Egypt, in terms of medical and legal considerations.

Keywords: Egypt; Hymen; Sexual assault; Virginity tests.

MeSH terms

  • Egypt
  • Female
  • Human Rights
  • Humans
  • Hymen*
  • Sexual Abstinence*
  • Sexual Behavior