A Hymenectomy (hymenotomy) is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing part or a woman’s entire hymen. It is done to treat imperforate hymen or other situations where the hymen is unusually thick or rigid in order to allow normal menstruation or sexual intercourse. Imperforate hymen can lead to hematometra or hematocolpos.

Pre-operative

The surgical procedure of hymenectomy and evacuation of hematocolpos is performed on an outpatient basis. Preoperative pelvic and abdominal ultrasound to view the kidneys and urinary tract as many patients with hematocolpos have pelvic adhesions which could lead to ureteric obstruction and hence subsequent renal failure.

The Procedure

Most hymenotomy procedures are done in a matter of hours. The patient usually undergoes anesthesia and the doctor numbs the vaginal opening. If a large hematocolpos is present, the surgeon may need to evacuate the hematocolpos and hematometra using suction. The physician then carefully cuts away part or all of the webbing covering the vaginal opening. The wounds are sutured closed and the patient is instructed to keep the area clean and as dry as she can. Infections and inflammation are possible, but they’re relatively uncommon and usually very treatable.