Q: I have tried to have intercourse but my partner is unable to penetrate my vagina. We are both frustrated. Is it because the hymen hasn’t broken yet?
Dr. Klein: An unbroken hymen is one possibility. The membrane over the vagina can be surprisingly tough, and sometimes tears only a bit without opening the vagina completely. Another possibility is vaginismus, an involuntary contraction of the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening. A nurse, physician, or other competent health care professional can easily diagnose these conditions without pain to you. I advise you to see one soon.