How Much Does a Hymenectomy Cost?

A hymenectomy is a surgical procedure for imperforate hymen, which causes obstruction in the vaginal opening.  The surgery involves completely removing the hymen and increasing the vaginal opening in the process.  A hymenectomy is typically done on patients with a hymen that is so thick that penetration, even with something as small as a tampon, is extremely painful and nearly impossible.

How much does it cost?

• Noted as a minor surgery, the cost of a hymenectomy is typically around $1,000 to as much as $10,000.  If done in an outpatient center, the costs will be a lot less compared to being done in a hospital.
• According to an OB-GYN physician, the cost of a hymenectomy can range from a few thousand up to $10,000.  The cost is affected by different factors, including the doctor’s fees and if financial assistance is provided.
• According to Debt.org, surgery costs depend on hospital expenses, doctor fees, and post-acute care.  Hospital fees can be 60% to 80% of the total amount, depending on the procedure.

What is going to be included?

• When preparing for the hymenectomy procedure, the patient is usually given anesthesia prior to the surgery.  The surgeon then makes an incision on the hymen, cuts around it, and creates a hole to remove the hymen.  The procedure can take 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the surgeon and the severity of the condition. The recovery period can last from 1 to 2 weeks.  Follow-up appointments with the gynecologist are necessary since the area needs to be checked to see if it is recovering well.  Complete healing usually occurs after 6 months, on average.

What are the extra costs?

• Prior to the surgery, tests may be performed to determine the overall health of the patient.  The tests may include a Pap smear or a pelvic exam.  Estrogen cream is typically applied to the area to aid in the recovery.  The procedure is done in an outpatient center and takes less than an hour to perform.
• Medication for pain and prescription for infection may also be provided after the surgery.

Factors that influence the price:

• Professional fees.  The overall cost of getting a surgery is significantly affected by surgeon and anesthesiologist fees.  Their individual rates usually depend on their experience and reputation.
• Facility fees.  Hymenectomy is considered a simple surgery and can be done in a hospital, at an ambulatory surgery center, or even in a doctor’s office.  Usually, the most expensive facility to get the procedure is in a private physician’s clinic.
• Other costs.  Prior to undergoing a surgery, a patient will need to undergo a number of tests to determine and ascertain her condition. The most common are a blood test, urine test, Pap smear, and pelvic examination.

Tips to know:

• In some instances, a partial hymenectomy may be required.  This is called hymenotomy, a procedure in which incisions are made on the hymen to widen the opening.
• Before undergoing the procedure, make sure to let the doctor know of any allergies, particularly to medications, including over-the-counter, prescription, steroids, creams, eye drops, and herbs.
• Patients are usually advised to avoid taking aspirin and other blood thinners a week prior to the surgery.  Additionally, eating or drinking anything 8 hours before the procedure is not advised.
• The first pro of having a hymenectomy is that it will ease the pain that can be felt during sexual intercourse.  Not only will the pain subside once the patient is healed, but sex will also be enjoyable rather than just tolerable.  Also, the number of urinary tract infections can greatly decrease or even be eliminated by having the hymenectomy performed.
• With his procedure, a woman will no longer be at high risk of suffering from the complications that can be associated with the menstrual cycle.  Without the correct flow, the female may experience severe medical conditions.
• Depending on the preference of the woman, the hymen will be open enough to use tampons rather than pads if desired.
• Many insurance companies will not cover this unless the problem is so severe that it interferes with blood flow.
• This procedure can be very painful for many weeks after it is done.

How can I save money?

• Have the procedure done by a professional in an ambulatory surgery facility.  The costs are usually lower in these environments than in hospitals since there is no need to pay for hospital equipment and accommodation.
• If you have insurance, some or all of the cost will most likely be covered by your insurance provider.  Be sure to inquire from your provider before scheduling a surgery.  Even if you want to switch your policy or see what is out there, consider browsing hundreds of policies for free at eHealthInsurance.com.

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