Explaining the understanding and experiences of gynecologists and midwives about virginity examination: a qualitative study Download PDF

Aim: Virginity examination is known as a custom and norm in some countries including Iran and today, medical teams are involved in the examination and hymen repair process. The main purposes for virginity examination are mentioned as evaluation of continence, delay for sexual relationship until marriage, HIV/AIDS/STIs prevention, keeping honor of family by defending of females’ virginity in different cultures. However, making a revision in medical practitioners’ role for performing this process is seemed essential following different views of the practitioners and towards virginity testing and hymen repair. It is necessary to investigate the related beliefs to make an informed and responsible decision for reproductive health system. Therefore, this qualitative study aims to explain gynecologists’ and midwives’ perceptions and experiences towards virginity testing and its consequences. Material and Method: This qualitative study was conducted using the content analysis method. Fifteen participants including 7 gynecologists and 8 midwives recruited by purposeful sampling method for beginning and then snowball sampling method. They were interviewed by semi-structured in-depth individual interview using a guide questions. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using conventional content analysis method. Results: Content analysis showed 2 categories" the examination’s identity" and "the examination’s requirements”. The category of “the examination identity” had two sub-categories including 1) the reasons for virginity testing, and 2) prognostic value of the examination. The subcategories of “the examination’s requirement” were 1) the necessity for planning and monitoring of the examination process and for the consequences of negative results, 2) training, support and safety of medical and midwifery system, 3) reproductive health rights and ethics. Discussion: The results showed that virginity test is not related to medical intervention such as prevention, treatment or rehabilitation. It can’t exclude sexual activity and causes undesired consequences. Health system promotion for increasing quality of test and education-based community empowerment are two basic approaches to protect reproductive health rights.