Period · 5 min read
The Hymen – What Is It Actually? And What's Really True?
These questions are completely normal – especially when your body is changing, your period starts or the topic of sexuality comes up. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding the hymen that can cause insecurity. That's why it's so important to talk about it openly and clearly.
What is the hymen anyway?
The hymen is a thin, elastic fold of mucous membrane at the entrance of the vagina. It sits between the inner labia and the beginning of the vaginal canal. Important to know: the hymen does not completely close off the vagina. It has one or more natural openings – otherwise menstrual blood couldn't flow out.
What the hymen looks like differs from person to person. In some it's barely visible, in others a little more pronounced. It can change over the course of life – through sport, movement, stretching or sexual activity. That is completely normal and no cause for concern.
Does the hymen have to tear the first time?
Many people believe that during first-time penetrative sex the hymen must tear and bleed – as a kind of "proof" of virginity. The reality is different:
- The hymen can stretch or tear slightly, but it doesn't have to.
- Only about 25% of people bleed the first time.
- If there is bleeding, it's often due to small injuries of the mucous membrane – not necessarily the hymen itself.
"Virginity" is not a physically measurable characteristic. It describes a personal decision or experience – not a medical condition.
Can a tampon damage the hymen?
This question also concerns many people – especially when starting menstruation. The answer: a tampon can stretch the hymen, but doesn't automatically damage it.
The hymen is elastic – especially in young people. A small tampon can usually be inserted without any problems. In some, the tissue stretches; in others it may tear slightly – that's not dangerous and usually not even noticeable.
If insertion feels uncomfortable, it may be due to the size of the tampon, your position or simply feeling unsure – and that's completely okay. You don't have to force anything; you can take your time and try out what feels right for you.
For a gentle start: period underwear for teenagers
Especially in the first years of your period, a lot is new – and sometimes a little overwhelming. That's why SELENACARE has developed its own line of period underwear for teenagers.
This underwear is specifically tailored to the needs of young bodies – in cut, material and feel. It works like normal underwear but contains an integrated absorbent layer that safely absorbs menstrual blood. So you don't have to worry about anything slipping or leaking.
Benefits of the teen models at a glance:
No foreign-body feeling
High absorbency – even with heavier bleeding
Washable and reusable
Subtle, modern designs
Available in various sizes for young bodies.
Whether at school, during sport or at night – with period underwear you can feel secure without constantly having to think about it. A simple, sustainable solution that gives you freedom in everyday life.
How can you tell whether the hymen is "still there"?
Empfohlene Produkte
Our latest innovation is a true game-changer in period underwear! Our brand-new, self-adhesive material allows for the combination of period panties with interchangeable inserts – a real change in the world of sustainable period hygiene has come! A revolutionary material In close collaboration with our product designers and textile experts, SELENACARE has developed a new technology that redefines flexibility during menstruation – a self-adhesive material! This material is sewn into the crotch of the SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties, as well as onto the accompanying absorbent inserts. This material makes changing the inserts easier and without slipping! So, the inserts can be changed easily without having to undress. The self-adhesive material allows the inserts to be inserted into the matching SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties and can be easily replaced when needed, like traditional pads. Unlike traditional pads, our inserts can be reused as they are washable! Say "Goodbye" to the uncomfortable moments of changing and "Hello" to a feeling of absolute flexibility during your period! The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Period Set The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Period Set consists of two parts. The SELENACARE Easy Comfort Basic Panties are the core of our system and are equipped with the self-adhesive material in the crotch – a brilliant base for the SELENACARE Easy Comfort Inserts, the second part of the period set. Absorbent Easy Comfort Inserts with Wetbag The Easy Comfort Inserts are equipped with the specially developed self-adhesive material on one side and are ideally matched to the Basic Panties. This makes inserting them into the crotch area of the panties incredibly easy. Thanks to this self-adhesive property, the insert stays securely in place and does not slip, without relying on uncomfortable or annoying attachment methods. With various levels of absorbency, they are ready to accompany you in every phase of your period – from light to heavy, we've got you covered. Once the Easy Comfort Inserts are fully saturated, they can be easily removed from the Basic Panties and replaced with a new insert. No need to take off the panties, as with traditional period underwear. Simply transport them in the Wetbag, wash, and reuse.
Feel completely protected and free with SELENACARE Free-Cut period underwear. Invisible under your clothes, it offers you comfort, discretion and maximum absorbency during your period. This underwear in sizes XS-M as well as L-XXL was specially developed for medium days and meets the highest demands. Invisible perfection for you Thanks to the innovative Free-Cut design and the thin material, SELENACARE Free-Cut period underwear does not leave any unsightly marks under tight-fitting garments. You can move freely and feel completely comfortable without worrying about visible marks. With this underwear you stay confident and secure in any situation. Maximum comfort and flexibility for you SELENACARE's Free-Cut period underwear offers you not only protection but also exceptional comfort. The super-stretch microfibre material fits your body perfectly and offers maximum flexibility. Whether you're working, exercising or just relaxing, this underwear ensures an optimal fit and freedom of movement for you. Reliable protection for medium days The period underwear has been specially designed for medium days to provide you with a high level of protection. The absorbent layers inside the underwear safely retain fluid and prevent unwanted leakage. You can trust its reliability every day of your period. It's your perfect companion during menstruation. Experience the comfort, discretion and protection you deserve. Be confident and enjoy your freedom no matter what the day brings.
The Period Panty Hipster convinces with its modern cut and super-comfortable fit. As with all our models, the integrated suction surface is discreetly and invisibly incorporated into the period panty. The menstrual underwear absorbs up to 25 ml of fluid. With its low-slung leg and medium waist, it hugs your body perfectly and gives a feeling of security. Light, medium or heavy days The strength of your period can vary throughout your cycle. The Hipster period underwear is ideal for the light and medium days of your period. It provides a dry feeling and does not allow fluid to leak out. On your heavier days, we recommend using the underwear in combination with a menstrual cup or tampon. If you have periods or spotting, you can use either a period slip or a washable pad, depending on the intensity of the bleeding. No restrictions, always well protected There are really no limits to the use of period underwear. You can use them in your free time, at work or on holiday. In addition to period blood, it also absorbs sweat and other fluids and reliably seals them in. Because the material is absorbent, it also gives you a very safe feeling during sports. After use, you can wash the panties out with cold water, air dry them and reuse them. This makes them a convenient, sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to tampons and disposable pads. Not only do you reduce waste, but you also save money because of their long life. Hygiene and freshness based on silver chloride (biocide active ingredient according to article 95 list) The absorbent layers of the SELENACARE products are equipped with the antimicrobial, biocidal protective finish SILVERPLUS® from RUDOLF GROUP. It prevents the proliferation of odour-causing bacteria. SILVERPLUS® is the leading silver ion technology and is certified according to the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. OEKO-TEX guarantees that all components have been tested for harmful substances and that the product is harmless to health.
What you can take away
- The hymen is a fold of mucous membrane, not a seal.
- It can stretch, change or recede – entirely without sex.
- Bleeding the first time is possible, but not guaranteed.
- Tampons are not taboo for "virgins" – you decide what feels right.
- If you prefer not to use tampons, period underwear is a great alternative.
- Asking questions is important – no matter how small or big they seem to you.
Safe, self-determined and sustainable through your period
Your period is a part of you – and you get to decide how you deal with it. If you're looking for a safe, comfortable and sustainable solution that fits your everyday life, then period underwear for teens from SELENACARE is a good choice. It protects you without you having to think about it constantly. No pressure, no stress – just a good feeling.
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