In a medico-legal examination of an alleged rape victim, the hymen is found intact but shows transverse rugose folds. Vaginal swabs reveal motile spermatozoa. The MOST accurate medico-legal opinion regarding the hymen is:
- A An intact hymen excludes recent penetrative sexual assault
- B An intact hymen does not exclude penetrative sexual assault, as certain hymenal configurations allow penetration without tearing ✓
- C The spermatozoa are unrelated to the hymenal finding and indicate only external contact
- D The intact hymen proves the woman was a virgin before this alleged assault
Explanation
Certain hymenal configurations—particularly elastic or fimbriated hymens—can allow penile penetration without laceration. Transverse rugose folds suggest an elastic hymen. The presence of motile spermatozoa in the vaginal vault confirms recent sexual intercourse (motility persists 6–12 hours post-intercourse in vivo). An intact hymen therefore cannot exclude penetrative assault. Moreover, medical opinion on virginity has been deprecated; the hymen's state is not a reliable indicator of prior sexual experience. This principle has been reinforced in Indian jurisprudence and POCSO guidelines.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.