Virginity proof

Abstract

Virginity proof refers to the idea that virginity can be sought and evidenced on the body. Since virginity is widely considered more easily verifiable in women than men, most examples of virginity testing focus on girls and women and involve inspection of the hymen, although critics question the reliability of such inspections. Common signs of virginity proof include the presence of blood on a bedsheet on the wedding night. Examples of “counterfeiting” virginity are widespread and include the use of surgical procedures to reconstruct the hymen. Motivations for virginity testing include a desire to prove the “honor” of a woman and her family, the deterring of premarital pregnancy, and the attempt to curtail the spread of sexually transmitted infections. Current research on virginity testing practices emphasizes its human rights dimensions and potential to be used as forms of state‐sanctioned surveillance and violence against women.