Imperforate hymen

Overview

The hymen is a thin tissue at the vaginal opening. Rarely it has no opening, so period blood can't leave the body.

It may be found at birth or in the early teen years when periods start but no blood comes out.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• No period with monthly pain
• No period by 15 with monthly pelvic pain or a bulge

Less common

• Trouble peeing
• Belly swelling

Look up a symptom: No period by 15 with monthly pelvic pain or a bulge · Period cramps

When to get medical care

Causes

Born with it.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Girls: Found at birth or puberty

Possible complications

• Kidney damage: Rare, from blocked urine

Diagnosis

Exam.

Treatment

See a specialist.

Self-care

• Track periods and pain
• Keep follow-up visits

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your child's pediatrician.
• They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a pediatric gynecologist.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Teens: Monthly belly pain without a period is a clue.
• Teen girls: Found at puberty.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
• Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
• Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fixable.

Simple surgery fixes it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• When should surgery be done?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Imperforate hymen