(084) Frequency of Bleeding at First Vaginal Intercourse and Stereotypes Surrounding it: A Pilot Survey of 6370 Russian-Speaking Women

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Despite the fact not all women experience bleeding at first vaginal intercourse (BFVI), in some cultures failure to prove virginity on the wedding night (sheets/garments covered with blood) may have serious consequences for a woman (bullying, domestic violence, shame and even honor killings). Low awareness of the true frequency of BFVI and of individual variation of the anatomy of the hymen may lead to inaccurate conclusions in cases of sexual assault or “virginity testing” (VT) at schools and/or in clinical settings, which can have a drastic impact on the mental health of young women. In cultures where defloration is sacralized, young women tend to choose anal sex instead of vaginal, which bears further risks including higher hazard of HIV; women also tend to seek hymenoplasty often performed in secrecy (in many cases it cannot guarantee bleeding at following intercourse, as intended). Objective To evaluate the frequency of stereotypes surrounding BFVI among Russian-speaking women Methods An anonymous survey was completed by 6370 Russian-speaking women across different countries who have had at least one vaginal intercourse. We aimed to reach women from varying religious, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. The survey included questions on whether women experienced BFVI and if not, whether it had any negative consequences; and list of questions regarding their feelings about virginity, hymen reconstruction and sex in general. The questionnaire was distributed by the authors and biomedical bloggers, via social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Telegram). Preliminary results are presented. Results Median age was 31 (15–70); 59% were married; 73.6% reported being raised in secular families. 21.2% - in religious families, and 2.1% - in strictly religious. 43,2% respondents denied having any BFVI; 42,3% confirmed BFVI; while 5,3% reported bleeding on following sexual encounters but not on first intercourse. A minority (3,6%) did not remember whether any bleeding was present. Among those who didn’t have BFVI, 75 (2,2%) reported long-lasting conflicts with partners, 166 (5%) reported withdrawal of their partners, 115 (3,5%)– mistrust, 88 (2,7%)– constant blaming, 37 (1,1 %) – emotional abuse, 2 (0,1%) – physical violence. Two hundred twenty-three (3.5%) women experienced VT at school, 76 (1.2%) referred themselves for VT, and 25 (0.4%) did so at the demand of their own family. Conclusions Traditions demonstrating BFVI associate with negative emotions and affect marital relationships as well as sexual health of women. Medical professionals should be aware of the frequency of BFVI; anatomy and gynecology books should reflect corresponding scientific findings. Myths about virginity should be addressed via media and opinion leaders to prevent gender based violence. Disclosure No.