If you're still a virgin and you go to the gynecologist, can the doctor's speculum break your hymen? If so, will it hurt?

You’d be surprised how little or even how much impact it could take to break your hymen. The thickness or thinness of the tissue varies from girl to girl. If it’s thin enough, it’s possible to have it break while riding a bike or while playing impact sports. Try not to feel pressured to avoid your normal activities or the gynecologist because, despite what many believe, an intact hymen does not absolutely prove your virginity.

And as for the discomfort when it breaks, there may be some, but it isn’t lasting. If you are still concerned about the situation, don’t be afraid to bring it up with your healthcare provider before your examination.

I imagine many girls just like you have had the same thought! Your healthcare provider has been extensively trained to carefully insert the speculum in order to do exam. Ask to see the speculum and for her to take the time to show you how it will work. This is your body and you should get some reassurance on what to expect.

You asked if it would hurt. Each girl is different in terms of what they experience but I can share what it feels like for me and what helps, so here goes. It is an awkward pressure when it is inserted so I take a deep breath and listen to my healthcare provider as she tells me what she is doing. It is not painful for me; I just try to keep my muscles as relaxed as possible so she can do the exam. Over the years, this has worked for me, so I recommend it for my daughters as well.

My healthcare provider is awesome because even at my age, she still explains everything she is about to do so I know what to expect. If something hurts she adjusts what she is doing to help me. Everyone deserves that kind of respect, so do not hold back; ask the questions and share your fears regarding the speculum and your virginity.

You should start having Pap smears within three years of the onset of sexual activity, or by the age of 21, whichever comes first. So, now you’re at the gynecologist, probably a little scared about what comes next. The hymen is a thin membrane that partially covers the opening to the vagina. This tissue does not completely cover the opening, as you can tell by the fact that you get a period and blood passes by. Your hymen can easily break by activities other than having sex. Tampon use, athletic activities, riding a bike and sometimes nothing at all may cause this membrane to rupture with no pain. If indeed your hymen is still intact your gynecologist will be able to see this. A speculum could then, yes, break or stretch this membrane. When the hymen is first separated, such as with intercourse or tampon use, very mild bleeding and sometimes slight pain may occur. Be open and honest, discuss your concerns. A Pap smear should not be uncomfortable, your healthcare provider should explain the procedure to you and work with you to make the experience as positive as possible.