Hymen care for unmarried Muslim females: Role of the forensic consultant in gynaecology interventions

Abstract

This case series illustrates the role of the forensic consultant in hymen care for unmarried Muslim females exposed to gynaecology interventions. The age range of the 12 females attending University of Jordan Hospital in Amman was 35 days to 28 years. Gynaecology interventions included the use of a vaginoscope, circular resection of the hymen in cases of congenital imperforate hymen, evacuation of perineal abscess and evaluation of a torn hymen. The forensic consultant provides a valuable role in reassuring patients and parents about procedures used to avoid rupturing the hymen, and in protecting the gynaecologist's and patients' rights by providing reports of the status of the hymen before and after intervention in cases where damage is unavoidable.