Virginity: Truth, Myths, and the Stories We’re Told
Virginity. A word thrown at us like a moral measuring stick. We’re told it’s something you “keep” or “lose,” a badge of purity that defines our worth. But here’s the truth: virginity isn’t a biological fact, it’s a social construct. It’s not in your blood, your body, or your destiny.
Science quickly dismantles one of its biggest myths: that you must bleed the first time you have penetrative sex. Only about 44% of people with vaginas bleed the first time, and many bleed from completely unrelated activities like cycling or yoga. The hymen is flexible, can stretch, tear, heal, and tells us nothing about a person’s morality. Still, this myth has been reinforced by cultural expectations, religious misinterpretations, and the misuse of faith to control bodies.
Reclaiming this conversation isn’t about encouraging or discouraging sexual activity — it’s about truth and autonomy.
Virginity does not define your value. When we strip away the falsehoods, we open the door to a pleasure revolution, one built on curiosity, honesty, and the right to our own stories. Your worth is not up for debate.
This is your Sex O’Clock News reporting live from the pleasure revolution.
Sex O’Clock News is designed, imagined and directed by Dina Chaerani with the production support of the Family Planning News Network (FPNN). As a global media network dedicated to solutions journalism in sexual and reproductive health and rights, FPNN amplifies underrepresented voices, reframes narratives, and drives transformative change.