Page "Hymen" Paragraph 9

Past neonatal stage, the diameter of the hymenal opening ( measured within the hymenal ring ) is widening by approximately 1 mm for each year of age.

During puberty the hymenal opening can also be enlarged by tampon, menstrual cup use, pelvic examinations with a speculum, regular physical activity or sexual intercourse.

Once a girl reaches puberty, the hymen tends to become very elastic.

In one survey, only 43 % of women reported bleeding the first time they had intercourse, indicating that the hymens of a majority of women are sufficiently opened.