[citation needed] The normal aim is to cause bleeding during post-nuptial intercourse, which in some cultures is wrongly considered proof of virginity.
[citation needed] Hymenorraphy is considered a form of cosmetic surgery, and is not generally accepted, taught, or regulated by the medical profession.
Imperforate hymens, completely covering the vagina, can cause medical problems and are fortunately rare.
Tightness of the vagina during first intercourse is mostly caused by an involuntary clenching the muscles of the pelvic floor due to nervousness.
[7] In a purely cosmetic procedure, a membrane without blood supply is created, sometimes including a gelatine capsule of an artificial bloodlike substance.
[9] For example, in 2020 in the Netherlands the professional surgeon associations adjusted their codes to prohibit hymenorrhaphy, and the government stated it would consider a legal ban if practice continues.
[10] The United Kingdom criminalised the procedure (referred to as "hymenoplasty") even with consent, along with aiding and abetting it or offering to carry it out, with the Health and Care Act 2022.
[11][12] The operation is popular in Middle Eastern countries, in particular in Iran, where women are expected to keep virginity until their wedding night.